Understanding Lab Tests for Vitamin B6 Toxicity
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Vitamin B6 toxicity, also known as pyridoxine toxicity, occurs when excessive amounts of vitamin B6 accumulate in the body, typically from long-term use of high-dose supplements. This condition can lead to serious neurological complications including nerve damage, tingling, numbness, and difficulty walking.
Recommended Test
Vitamin B6
This test directly measures vitamin B6 levels in the blood to diagnose toxicity. Elevated levels confirm that symptoms such as tingling, numbness in hands and feet, difficulty walking, and other neurological issues are caused by vitamin B6 toxicity, usually resulting from long-term use of high-dose supplements.
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Diagnosing Vitamin B6 Toxicity
Since neurological symptoms of vitamin B6 toxicity can mimic other conditions, accurate diagnosis requires blood testing to measure vitamin B6 levels. Elevated blood levels of vitamin B6 confirm the diagnosis and help healthcare providers determine appropriate treatment, which typically involves discontinuing supplementation and allowing levels to normalize.
Understanding the Results
Normal vitamin B6 levels indicate adequate nutrition without toxicity risk. Elevated levels suggest toxicity and explain neurological symptoms. Your healthcare provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and supplement history to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
