Australia introduces stricter vitamin B6 supplement rules to prevent toxicity and nerve damage |
Vitamin B6, an essential nutrient also known as pyridoxine, pyridoxal, or pyridoxamine, plays a crucial role in over 140 functions in the body, including brain development, immune system support, and the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. While most people obtain sufficient amounts from a balanced diet rich in poultry, fish, eggs, starchy vegetables, and fruits, many turn to supplements, energy drinks, and multivitamins to boost their intake. Although moderate supplementation is generally safe, prolonged consumption of high doses can cause serious health risks, including nerve damage, numbness, and tingling in the hands and feet, as well as digestive and skin issues. In response, Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is introducing stricter rules on high-dose vitamin B6 products, aiming to protect public health while still allowing access to lower-dose supplements.
What vitamin B6 does and why it’s important for your health
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, pyridoxal, or pyridoxamine, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for over 140 functions in the human body. It plays a key role in supporting brain development, maintaining a healthy immune system, and metabolising proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Without sufficient B6, the body cannot efficiently process nutrients or maintain nerve and blood cell function.Humans cannot produce vitamin B6 naturally, but it is widely available in foods such as poultry, fish, eggs, starchy vegetables, and fruits. For most adults, the recommended daily intake ranges from 1.3 mg to 1.7 mg, which is easily met through a balanced diet. Despite this, many people take additional B6 supplements, often believing that higher doses will boost energy, improve mood, or enhance overall health.
The health risks of high-dose vitamin B6 and signs of toxicity
While moderate supplementation is generally safe, excessive vitamin B6 intake can be harmful. High doses may lead to vitamin B6 toxicity, primarily affecting the nervous system. Peripheral neuropathy, a form of nerve damage, is one of the most serious consequences. A systematic review published in Nutrients found that high-dose vitamin B6 supplementation can cause sensory, axonal-type peripheral neuropathy, with symptoms such as numbness and tingling, which often improve after stopping supplementation. In some cases, prolonged high intake can cause difficulty walking, weakness, or muscle coordination problems. Other possible side effects of high-dose B6 include digestive issues, skin lesions, extreme sensitivity to sunlight, and a reduced ability to sense temperature or pain. Toxicity usually occurs only from supplements, not from dietary sources. Experts warn that because B6 is present in multivitamins, energy drinks, and weight-loss products, it’s easy to consume more than intended, often without realising it.
Australia’s new vitamin B6 regulations and how they compare globally
To address these risks, Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) will implement stricter regulations for B6 supplements starting June 2027:
- Supplements containing 50 mg or less per recommended daily dose will remain available over the counter.
- Products containing 50–200 mg per daily dose will require advice from a pharmacist.
- Products exceeding 200 mg per daily dose will require a prescription from a healthcare professional.
These measures aim to protect consumers from nerve damage while still allowing access to lower-dose supplements for those who may genuinely need them. Vitamin B6 deficiency in Australia is rare and mostly occurs in older adults or people with alcohol dependence, obesity, or certain kidney, liver, or autoimmune conditions.Internationally, guidelines for safe B6 intake differ. In the US, adults can take up to 100 mg daily without exceeding the official “upper limit”, while Europe sets the tolerable upper intake at 12 mg per day, and Japan ranges between 40–60 mg depending on age and sex. These differences reflect varying approaches to balancing supplement benefits with potential toxicity.
How to safely use vitamin B6 supplements and avoid side effects
Experts recommend that most adults stick to low-dose vitamin B6 supplements, such as multivitamins or B-complex tablets providing less than 10 mg per day. High-dose products should only be used under medical supervision, particularly for people managing health conditions that may require additional B6.Consumers should watch for warning signs of toxicity, including tingling, burning, or numbness in the hands or feet, and stop supplementation immediately if symptoms occur. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential for managing side effects and determining the right dosage.Reporting adverse effects to the TGA via the Adverse Event Reporting System is also encouraged, as it helps improve the safety of supplements for everyone. The 2027 implementation period allows manufacturers, healthcare providers, and retailers adequate time to update labelling, manage stock, and comply with the new rules.Australia’s updated regulations strike a careful balance between the benefits of vitamin B6 and the risks of prolonged high-dose intake. By enforcing stricter controls for higher-dose products, authorities aim to prevent avoidable nerve damage and other complications, highlighting the principle that more is not always better when it comes to vitamin supplementation.Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.Also Read: What really happens to your blood sugar when you skip a meal and go too long without eating
