Vitamin B6 / Pyridoxine
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for numerous bodily functions, including amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and hemoglobin production. It plays a crucial role in maintaining cognitive health, hormone balance, and mood regulation. The Vitamin B6 Test measures the concentration of vitamin B6 in the blood to assess nutritional status and identify potential deficiencies or toxicities.
Test details
Sample type
Blood
Time of day
No specific time required
Fasting required
No
Results timeframe
Up to four weeks
Preparation
No special preparation required
What's measured in this test
Vitamin B6
Needed for brain function and mood.
Common reasons for testing
- Identifying deficiency – Detects low vitamin B6 levels that may lead to symptoms such as skin changes, tongue inflammation, depression, irritability, and anemia.
- Detecting toxicity – Identifies elevated vitamin B6 levels that could cause adverse effects such as peripheral neuropathy and encephalopathy.
- Monitoring supplementation – Evaluates the effectiveness and safety of vitamin B6 supplementation in individuals with known deficiencies or those undergoing treatment that affects vitamin B6 metabolism.