Patient/caregiver was instructed upon indications for vitamin B6 supplementation as follows:
- Vitamin B6 plays a significant role in the synthesis of melatonin, which is the hormone regulating sleep onset and wakefulness. Supplementation with vitamin B6 in deficient states, secondary to the contribution towards melatonin synthesis, can help with relief of symptoms of insomnia, difficulty falling sleep, and regulation of sleep-wake cycle.
- Deficiency of vitamin B6 in pregnant women can result in symptoms of morning sickness, delayed fetal growth, and compromised development. Vitamin B6 levels must be closely watched during pregnancy and supplements administered in deficient states to help normal fetal growth and development.
- Vitamin B6 is an essential vitamin needed for synthesis of neurotransmitters and proper functioning of the brain and nerve cells. The levels of neurotransmitters in the brain and nervous system must be closely regulated and balanced, as they are essential in regulating mood and behavior. Deficiency of vitamin B6 can result in compromised development and maturity of nerve and brain cells, compromised synthesis and altered balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to conditions such as peripheral neuropathy, delayed thought processes, cognitive deficits, dementia, anxiety, depression, mania, and psychosis. Supplementation of vitamin B6 in deficient states can contribute towards relief of symptoms with conditions above.
