Vitamin (B-complex vitamin)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Riboflavin is Vitamin B2, a water-soluble vitamin that helps your body turn the food you eat into energy and keeps your skin, eyes, and nervous system healthy.
Acts as a cofactor for flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), essential coenzymes for oxidation-reduction reactions in cellular energy metabolism, tissue repair, and synthesis of other B vitamins. Restores normal epithelial function and reduces inflammatory responses in deficiency states affecting mucous membranes and skin.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist — no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
For adults, the usual dose is 5mg to 25mg once daily, taken by mouth with food for better absorption. For preventing deficiency, 1 to 4mg daily is usually enough. Swallow the tablet with water, preferably with a meal.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not double up to make up for the missed dose.
Buy from reputable pharmacies — not roadside sellers — to make sure you are getting genuine Ribosam or other quality riboflavin products. Do not take more than the recommended dose thinking it will work faster; your body will simply pass the excess in your urine. If your symptoms like cracked lips or mouth sores do not improve after a few weeks, see a doctor as there may be another cause.
Some drugs like probenecid, tricyclic antidepressants, and certain antibiotics (like tetracycline) may reduce how well riboflavin works or vice versa. Birth control pills may lower your riboflavin levels. Alcohol can reduce your body's ability to absorb riboflavin, so limit alcohol intake.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Riboflavin with your other drugs?
Riboflavin is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding at recommended doses, but always consult your doctor before taking any supplement.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it on window sills or in your car. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from humidity, and keep it out of children's reach.
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.