Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Vitamin B6, particularly in its active form pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, has scientific support for use during pregnancy, primarily for the management of nausea and vomiting (morning sickness). Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that supplementation with vitamin B6 can significantly reduce symptoms of nausea in pregnant women, with or without vomiting. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends vitamin B6 as a first-line pharmacological treatment for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy due to its favorable safety profile and efficacy. Typical dosing regimens studied are 10–25 mg, taken three times daily.

Vitamin B6 is essential for various metabolic processes, including amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and hemoglobin production, which are particularly important during pregnancy when nutritional needs are increased. Deficiency in vitamin B6 during pregnancy is uncommon in developed countries but can contribute to symptoms such as irritability, confusion, and, rarely, anemia or dermatitis.

While vitamin B6 is most studied for morning sickness, there is less direct evidence supporting its use for other pregnancy-related conditions. It is not a general treatment for all pregnancy ailments, but its use for nausea and vomiting is well-substantiated. Safety data indicate that vitamin B6 is well tolerated at recommended doses, though excessive supplementation should be avoided due to potential neurotoxicity at very high doses. Overall, the use of vitamin B6 during pregnancy—specifically for nausea and vomiting—is supported by scientific evidence and is endorsed by clinical guidelines.

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