Drug Guide
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
Classification
Therapeutic: Vitamin B6 supplement
Pharmacological: Pyridoxine, Vitamin B6
FDA Approved Indications
- Pyridoxine deficiency
Mechanism of Action
Pyridoxine is converted in the body to pyridoxal phosphate, a coenzyme involved in amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and hemoglobin production.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Typical dose varies; commonly 10-100 mg daily. Dose depends on deficiency severity.
Pediatric: Doses are weight and age-dependent; usually 0.5–2 mg/kg/day for deficiency correction.
Geriatric: Same as adult dosing, with consideration of renal function.
Renal Impairment: Adjustments may be necessary; monitor for deficiency or toxicity.
Hepatic Impairment: Generally no adjustments are necessary but monitor liver function.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Absorbed rapidly from the gastrointestinal tract.
Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues.
Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver.
Excretion: Excreted primarily in the urine.
Half Life: Approximately 15-20 hours.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to pyridoxine or other vitamin B6 compounds.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with neuropathy or other neurological disorders. Excessive doses may cause neurotoxicity.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Nerve toxicity (neuropathy) (Rare)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Seizures, hypersensitivity reactions (Very rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Levodopa (may require dose adjustment)
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for signs of deficiency and neuropathy.
Diagnoses:
- Imbalanced nutrition: less than body requirements
Implementation: Administer as prescribed, ensure dietary adequacy.
Evaluation: Assess resolution of deficiency symptoms and monitor for adverse effects.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Explain the importance of taking the medication as prescribed.
- Inform about possible side effects, including neuropathy.
- Encourage a balanced diet rich in vitamin B6.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- Chronic use of high doses (>200 mg/day) can cause sensory neuropathy.
Genetic Factors: None specified.
Lab Test Interference: None known.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Severe sensory neuropathy, ataxia, skin lesions, paresthesias.
Treatment: Discontinue pyridoxine; supportive care; no specific antidote.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store in a tightly closed container at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions.