Vitamin B6

Introduction

Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various metabolic functions within the human body. As a Nurse Practitioner in autonomous practice in Florida, I often emphasize the importance of understanding the biomarkers that can impact your health. Vitamin B6 is one such biomarker that deserves attention due to its significant role in maintaining optimal physiological functions. In this article, we will explore the background, importance, clinical implications, and factors affecting Vitamin B6 levels.

The Role of Vitamin B6 in the Body

Vitamin B6 is integral to several metabolic pathways, including those that process neurotransmitters, the heme component of blood, carbohydrates, sulfur-containing amino acids, and sphingolipids. It is essential for the maintenance of skin, blood, and nerves. Vitamin B6 is also involved in the processing of homocysteine, tryptophan, serine, and glycine, and is required for the transaminase enzymes ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase).

Vitamin B6 Ranges and Measurement

According to Quest Diagnostics, the standard range for Vitamin B6 is 2.10 – 21.70 ng/mL (8.50 – 87.80 nmol/L). The optimal range is considered to be 12.36 – 21.70 ng/mL (50.01 – 87.80 nmol/L). Note that some laboratories report in µg/L, where 20 ng/mL equals 20 µg/L.

Clinical Implications of Vitamin B6 Levels

Low Vitamin B6 Levels

Deficiency in Vitamin B6 can lead to a host of medical conditions and symptoms, including:

• Anemia: Microcytic anemia due to impaired hemoglobin synthesis.
  
• Cardiovascular Function: Low B6 contributes to atherosclerosis and increases risk of stroke and myocardial infarction.
  
• Neuropathy: Peripheral neuropathy and nerve compression syndromes.
  
• Depression: Mood disorders from disrupted neurotransmitter synthesis.
  
• Other Conditions: Elevated homocysteine, Inflammation, low albumin, malnutrition, Gastrointestinal Function disorders, sickle cell disease, and thromboembolism.
  
  

High Vitamin B6 Levels

While deficiency causes many issues, excess supplementation may lead to:

• Peripheral Neuropathy: Nerve damage from toxicity.
  
• Renal Insufficiency: Impaired clearance raises B6 levels.
  
• Other Associations: Elevated inorganic phosphate and hypophosphatasia.
  
  

Interfering Factors and Drug Interactions

Vitamin B6 measurements and status can be influenced by:

• Kidney Dysfunction and Inflammation
  
• Low Albumin or high alkaline phosphatase
  
• Medications that deplete B6 or interfere with its metabolism
  
  

Drug Causes of Decreased Vitamin B6 Levels

• Isoniazid (tuberculosis treatment)
  
• Oral Contraceptives
  
• Antiepileptics (e.g., phenytoin, phenobarbital)
  
  

Drug Causes of Increased Vitamin B6 Levels

• Excessive Supplementation
  
• Certain Diuretics
  
  

Conclusion

In conclusion, a comprehensive evaluation by a functional medicine nurse practitioner integrates Vitamin B6 assessment into a holistic care model that addresses metabolic, neurologic, and cardiovascular health. By combining advanced biomarker profiling with targeted IV therapy and peptide therapy, we offer patients a preventive framework to rebuild resilience and optimize wellness. Call 904-799-2531 or schedule online for your personalized assessment.

Further Reading

1. Dakshinamurti S., et al. “Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) in health and disease.” Adv Nutr. 2018;9(1):76–80. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29342918/
   
2. Lewerin C., et al. “Vitamin B6 and cardiovascular diseases.” Clin Nutr. 2016;35(5):1123–1129. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26547420/
3. Parra M., et al. “Vitamin B6 function and status in health and disease.” Nutrients. 2018;10(2):199. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29361717/