Dr Lockie's Blog

Vitamin B6 Toxicity Update and Guidelines

30th June 2026

Vitamin B6 Has Been In The News

Over the past 12 months or so, mainstream media have picked up on cases where people on multiple supplements and other energy drinks and shakes, had been diagnosed with B6 toxicity resulting in a condition called peripheral neuropathy.

What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Some people were unknowingly ingesting unsafe levels of B6 (also known as pyridoxine), when combining multiple supplements and sports drinks, especially. After investigation, they were diagnosed with  peripheral neuropathy, a condition that causes some or all of the following:

• Gradual feeling of numbness, or tingling in your feet or hands, sometimes moving into your limbs.
• Sharp, throbbing or burning pain.
• Highly touch sensitive.
• Weakness and lack of coordination.
• Other unpleasant touch sensitive sensations

These symptoms can last for years in some cases.

What Is A Safe Level?

Vitamin B6 - Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)

• *Men 19–50 years*: 1.3 mg/day
• *Men 51+ years*: 1.7 mg/day
• *Women 19–50 years*: 1.3 mg/day
• *Women 51+ years*: 1.5 mg/day
• *Pregnancy*: 1.9 mg/day
• *Lactation*: 2.0 mg/day

*This is a guideline only and does not replace a consultation with our dietitian.

The TGA now requires all products with more than 10mg of B6, to be marked on the front of the packaging.

What Action Should Be Taken?

First, check the health products and energy drinks you consume regularly for the level of B6 in them.

If you are feeling some of the symptoms above or if the total B6 is over 50mg, please contact us for a special blood test to determine your B6 levels.  Please mention B6 in the enquiry notes.

At present, the test costs $50 (mid 2026), but it is worthwhile for peace of mind if you are displaying some of the symptoms.