Vitamin B

What is this medication for?

Vitamin B supplements are available either as a single vitamin (e.g. B12 alone) or as a combination of different B vitamins (e.g. B1, B2, B3, and B6 together). They may be used to treat or prevent Vitamin B deficiency. They may also be used to relieve peripheral neuropathy, a nerve condition where there is pain, weakness, burning, tingling, or numbness in the hands or feet. Speak to your healthcare professional to find out more.

How should I take or use this medication?

• Take this medication as prescribed by your healthcare professional
• Do not stop taking your medications without checking with your healthcare professional
• This medication may be taken with or without food
• This medication is usually taken in the morning, as they may help with energy levels. If it is taken at night or close to bedtime, it might cause wakefulness or alertness.
• Do not take other Vitamin B6 (also known as pyridoxine)-containing products while on this medication to prevent overdose.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only the usual dose. Do not double your dose or use extra medication to make up for the missed dose.

If you remember your missed dose close to bedtime, skip the dose & take your usual dose the following morning.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication, or any of the other ingredients in this medication
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies

What are some common side effects of this medication? ​

Some side effects of Vitamin B may include stomach discomfort (e.g. nausea, passing out gas more often or heartburn)

• You may reduce the stomach discomfort by taking medication with or after food

You may notice that your urine changes colour after taking Vitamin B. Do not worry as this is normal.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately? 

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

You can also find out about drug allergies by watching these videos:

For videos in 中文, Melayu and தமிழ், click here

Excessive intake of Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) may cause a new or worsening tingling, burning, or numbness in the hands or feet.

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

How should I store this medication?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children. 

How do I throw away this medication safely? ​

Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin.

What else should I know about this medication? 

If your doctor has started you on this medication for the relief of pain, weakness, tingling, or numbness due to peripheral neuropathy, you may only see improvement within 6 months of starting this medication.

Keep track of any improvement after starting this medication. If you do not experience relief after 6 months of regular use, inform your healthcare professional and explore alternative options with them. 

If you are prescribed this medication for other reasons, discuss with your doctor how long to take this medication and what signs of improvement to look out for.