What are the side effects of too much vitamin B6?

Excessive vitamin B6 intake can lead to nerve damage, causing symptoms such as numbness, tingling, nerve pain, and imbalance.

Why is Australia tightening rules on vitamin B6 supplements?

Australia is tightening rules on vitamin B6 supplements due to a rise in reported poisonings, requiring high-dose products to be sold behind pharmacy counters.

Can electrolyte drinks cause vitamin B6 poisoning?

Yes, electrolyte drinks and other supplements can contain high levels of vitamin B6, and excessive consumption can lead to toxicity and adverse health effects.

Home / Health / Vitamin B6 Overload: Nerve Damage Risks Rise

Vitamin B6 Overload: Nerve Damage Risks Rise

29 Jan

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Summary

High vitamin B6 doses can cause nerve damage and toxicity.
Australia tightens supplement rules due to rising B6 poisonings.
Electrolyte drinks and supplements may contain excessive B6.

Vitamin B6 Overload: Nerve Damage Risks Rise

High doses of vitamin B6, a nutrient vital for nerve health and metabolism, are increasingly linked to serious side effects, including nerve damage. This awareness is growing as vitamin B6 becomes more popular in supplements, electrolyte drinks, and fortified foods. Incidences of B6 toxicity are rising, prompting regulatory action. In November 2025, Australia began tightening restrictions on supplements exceeding 50 milligrams per daily dose, requiring them to be sold behind pharmacy counters starting mid-2027.

While rare, B6 poisoning can manifest with symptoms like numbness, tingling, nerve pain, and imbalance. Blair Huddy, for example, experienced severe symptoms, including vertigo and neuropathy, which were eventually traced to her daily consumption of an electrolyte drink mix high in vitamin B6. Her case underscores the fact that even water-soluble vitamins are chemicals that can be harmful in excess.