Pyridoxine Hydrochloride Dangers

Pyridoxine hydrochloride, the chemical name for vitamin B6, is an essential vitamin for the human body. It helps produce healthy blood cells. Its most important function is to help the body turn food into energy. Found in varying concentrations in bread, meat, eggs, fish, potatoes, bananas and many kinds of nuts, pyridoxine hydrochloride is also useful in helping the body maintain hormonal balance, particularly in women. B6, however, has a few undesirable side effects, especially when consumed in excess.

Danger for Nursing Mothers

• A study entitled "Dangers of vitamin B6 in nursing mothers" in the New England Journal of Medicine reported that pyridoxine hydrochloride can slow the growth of the prolactin hormone, which is produced by lactating mothers.This inhibits sufficient production of breast milk.

Neurological Problems

• Nutritional Supplements Health Guide states that overdosing on B6 over a period of time can cause neurological problems. B6 taken in supplement form in excess of 200 mg can interfere with sensory system functions, resulting in numbness or other difficulties. The University of Michigan affirms these findings, warning that a B6 overdose can also cause difficulty walking.

Other Potential problems

• Healthline.com also reports that an overdose could cause nausea, vomiting, headache, drowsiness, acne and skin allergies. Side effects may begin to occur when patients take over 100 mg per day, although up to 200 mg per day may be safe under a doctor's supervision.