Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine 5-phosphate)
For the health condition: PMS Type P
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Vitamin B6 (especially in its active form, pyridoxal 5'-phosphate) is commonly used to support or treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS), including PMS Type P (primarily characterized by psychological symptoms such as mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and depression). The rationale for its use comes from both its biochemical role in neurotransmitter synthesis (such as serotonin and dopamine) and clinical research investigating its effects on PMS symptoms.
Several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews have explored the efficacy of vitamin B6 for PMS. A 1999 meta-analysis (Wyatt et al., BMJ) found that vitamin B6 was more effective than placebo in relieving overall PMS symptoms, particularly mood-related symptoms, though the effect size was modest and study quality varied. Dosages studied typically ranged from 50 mg to 100 mg daily. More recent reviews (e.g., Bent et al., 2009) have supported these findings but also caution about potential adverse effects at high doses.
The proposed mechanism is that vitamin B6 acts as a cofactor in the synthesis of neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation. Clinical guidelines sometimes mention vitamin B6 as a possible adjunctive treatment for PMS, particularly when mood symptoms predominate. However, while there is scientific evidence supporting its use, the overall quality of the evidence is moderate and not universally conclusive.
More about Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine 5-phosphate)
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Other health conditions supported by Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine 5-phosphate)
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Depression
Diabetes
Migraine
Nerve Damage
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