Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCl)
For the health condition: PMS Type D
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCl) is used to support or treat PMS Type D, which is primarily characterized by depressive symptoms, such as mood swings, irritability, and anxiety. The rationale for its use is based on the role of vitamin B6 in neurotransmitter synthesis, particularly serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in mood regulation. Several clinical studies have investigated vitamin B6 supplementation for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) in general, with some focusing on psychological symptoms.
A 1999 meta-analysis by Wyatt et al. (BMJ 1999;318:1375-1381) reviewed randomized placebo-controlled trials and found that vitamin B6 was more effective than placebo in relieving overall PMS symptoms, particularly mood-related symptoms. However, the quality of the studies was variable, and the effect size was modest. More recent reviews and guidelines suggest that vitamin B6 may have a small benefit for mood symptoms in PMS, but the evidence is not robust. Most studies use doses ranging from 50 to 100 mg/day, and higher doses risk neurotoxicity.
Overall, the scientific evidence supporting vitamin B6 for PMS Type D is limited but present, meriting a low to moderate evidence rating. It is not purely traditional, as there are controlled trials, but the methodological quality and consistency of benefit are not strong enough for a higher evidence rating. Clinical guidelines sometimes mention B6 as an option, especially for women with predominant mood symptoms during PMS.
More about Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCl)
More about PMS Type D
Other health conditions supported by Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCl)
AlcoholismAnemia
Anxiety
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Depression
Diabetes
Fatigue
Migraine
Morning Sickness
Nausea and Vomiting
Nervous Exhaustion
Neuralgia and Neuritis
Peripheral Neuropathy
PMS (general)
PMS Type A
PMS Type C
PMS Type D
PMS Type H
PMS Type P
PMS Type S
Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for)
Seizures
Stress