Vitamin (B-complex vitamin)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride is Vitamin B6, a water-soluble vitamin that helps your body break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates properly, and also supports your nervous system and brain function.
Acts as a coenzyme in amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and haemoglobin formation by serving as a prosthetic group for aminotransferases, decarboxylases, and other pyridoxal phosphate-dependent enzymes, thereby correcting deficiency-related neurological and haematological manifestations.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
For general vitamin B6 deficiency, adults usually take 25 mg to 50 mg one to three times daily — common brands like Emzor Vitamin B6 50 mg Tablet or Timec Pyridoxine Hydrochloride Tablets make this easy. You can take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce any stomach upset. If you are taking it to prevent nerve problems from TB drugs like isoniazid, your doctor will usually prescribe 10 mg to 25 mg daily.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.
Buy only from reputable pharmacies — brands like Emzor Vitamin B6 or Timec are well known in Nigeria, so avoid unbranded or suspicious-looking products from roadside sellers. Do not assume that because it is a vitamin, more is better — taking too much Vitamin B6 over time can actually damage your nerves. If you are taking it alongside TB drugs, do not stop on your own without your doctor's approval.
Pyridoxine can reduce the effectiveness of levodopa (a drug used for Parkinson's disease), so let your doctor know if you are on that medication. If you are taking isoniazid or cycloserine for TB treatment, your doctor may actually prescribe pyridoxine alongside it to protect your nerves. Phenytoin (a seizure medication) levels may be reduced by high-dose Vitamin B6.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Pyridoxine with your other drugs?
Pyridoxine is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding at recommended doses — in fact, doctors often prescribe it to help with morning sickness — but always confirm the dose with your doctor.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from moisture, and always keep it out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
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