What Is Pyridoxine Hydrochloride?

Pyridoxine hydrochloride is a form of vitamin B6. It occurs naturally in foods and is also available in supplement form.

Sources

• Some foods high in pyridoxine hydrochloride include tuna, bananas, chicken or turkey breast, calf's liver, cod, salmon, red snapper, beef and halibut, according to the World's Healthiest Foods.

Function

• Pyridoxine hydrochloride is important in the production of the brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine, according to the Mayo Clinic. Vitamin B6 is also a building block for myelin, the material that insulates nerves.

Deficiency

• Deficiencies of pyridoxine hydrochloride affect the nerves, skin, mucous membranes and blood cells. Vitamin B6 deficiency occurs frequently in patients suffering from alcoholism, cirrhosis, hypothyroidism, congestive heart failure and digestive conditions that disrupt the absorption of nutrients.

Requirements

• Adults 18 and over should take in 100 mg of pyridoxine hydrochloride from food and supplements. Children require between 30 mg and 80 mg, depending on age.

Risks

• Pyridoxine hydrochloride supplements have the potential to cause nausea, stomach pain, loss of appetite, headaches, tingling and sleepiness. Damage to the brain and nerves is possible with long-term excessive use of vitamin B6.