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Pyridoxine description. Vitamins (VYE-ta-mins ) are compounds that you must have for growth and health. They are needed in small amounts only and are usually available in the foods that you eat. Pyridoxine (peer-i-DOX-een ) (vitamin B 6) is necessary for normal breakdown of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Some conditions may increase your need for pyridoxine. These include: Alcoholism Burns Diarrhea Dialysis Heart disease Intestinal problems Liver disease Overactive thyroid Stress, long-term illness, or serious injury Surgical removal of stomach In addition, infants receiving unfortified formulas such as evaporated milk may need additional pyridoxine. Increased need for pyridoxine should be determined by your health care professional. Lack of pyridoxine may lead to anemia (weak blood), nerve damage, seizures, skin problems, and sores in the mouth. Your doctor may treat these problems by prescribing pyridoxine for you. Claims that pyridoxine is effective for treatment of acne and other skin problems, alcohol intoxication, asthma, hemorrhoids, kidney stones, mental problems, migraine headaches, morning sickness, and menstrual problems, or to stimulate appetite or milk production have not been proven. Injectable pyridoxine is given by or under the supervision of a health care professional. Other forms of pyridoxine are available without a prescription. Why prescribed Pyridoxine. Pyridoxine, vitamin B6, is required by your body for utilization of energy in the foods you eat, production of red blood cells, and proper functioning of nerves. It is used to treat and prevent vitamin B6 deficiency resulting from poor diet, certain medications, and some medical conditions. Pyridoxine is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. How used Pyridoxine. Pyridoxine comes in regular and extended-release (long-acting) tablets. It usually is taken once a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label or package label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take pyridoxine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Do not chew, crush, or cut extended-release tablets; swallow them whole. Brand names: - Doxine - Nestrex - Pyri - Pyridoxine - Rodex - Vitabee 6 |