MEDICAL INFORMATION FOR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS

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PYRIDOXINE/vitamin B6

WHY is this medication prescribed? 

Pyridoxine is a water-soluble B complex vitamin naturally present in many foods. It is an important vitamin used by the body to prevent seizures and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy (which is characterized by a tingling sensation or a weakened sense of touch in the hands and feet.) Some medications like isoniazid, used in the prevention and treatment of tuberculosis, can cause pyridoxine deficiency. As well, some conditions such as alcoholism, diabetes, and malnutrition may increase the risk for peripheral neuropathy and the need for pyridoxine. Therefore, this medication is used as a supplement to prevent symptoms of pyridoxine deficiency.

HOW should this drug be taken?

Pyridoxine is available as a 25mg or 100mg white-scored tablet.

The usual dose is between 25mg to 50mg given once daily.  Pyridoxine requirements are increased during pregnancy and breast-feeding and also in patients taking birth control or hormone replacement therapy.

Your doctor may prescribe a different dosage for you depending on your specific needs.  FOLLOW  THE ADVICE OF YOUR DOCTOR.

Do not take a higher dose than what you are prescribed, since high doses can sometimes cause symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.

Tablets should be swallowed with water or some other non-alcoholic drink and can be given with or without food.

What should you do if you FORGET a dose?

The missed dose should be taken as soon as you remember, then just carry on with your regular dosing schedule. However, do not take 2 doses at the same time. If you are unsure what to do, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

What ADVERSE EFFECTS can this drug cause?  What should you do about them?

Side effects such as nausea, stomach upset, headache, drowsiness and tingling sensation to the hands and feet have been reported with this medication. If these effects occur and are bothersome, please call the clinic or discuss them at your next visit.

The long-term effects of this medication may include numbness of hands and feet associated with only very high doses.  If you are concerned about any unexpected effects, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU KEEP YOUR REGULAR DOCTOR'S APPOINTMENTS, SO THAT YOUR PROGRESS CAN BE ASSESSED.

IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR HEALTH CARE TEAM.

What other PRECAUTIONS should you follow while using this drug?

Pyridoxine may possibly decrease the effectiveness of some medications including:

  • Levodopa (e.g. Prolopa)
  • Phenytoin  (e.g. Dilantin).

Be sure to inform your physician if you are on these medications.  In addition, this medication can interact with other drugs not listed above. It is important that your physician or pharmacist knows about other drugs you are taking, even medications you can buy without a prescription.

Use of pyridoxine in pregnancy or breast feeding has not been shown to be harmful to the fetus or baby. In fact, pyridoxine supplementation is recom-mended for good maternal and fetal health.

How should this medication be STORED ?

Pyridoxine should be stored in a cool (15-30C) dry place, protected from light and well out of the reach of children.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT THIS MEDICATION, PLEASE DISCUSS THEM WITH YOUR PHARMACIST, NURSE, OR PHYSICIAN.  PLEASE WRITE DOWN YOUR QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS TO ENSURE THEY ARE ADDRESSED.

A pharmacist at the

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is available to answer questions.  The telephone number is:

 

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Adapted from the Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties 2001 and Micromedex. Edited by the CSHP Ont. Branch Professional Specialty Group in HIV Disease in conjunction with the HIV/AIDS  Outpatient Network of Ontario Coordinators Sub-Group, 2001.