Most of us think vitamins are always safe—but did you know you can actually get too much Vitamin B6? Recent news stories in Australia have highlighted the risks.

• Channel 7 News reported on Dominic Noonan-O’Keeffe, who developed severe health problems after unknowingly taking excess Vitamin B6 from a supplement [1].
• ABC News also shared the case of Dr Mary Buchanan, who suffered nerve damage and muscle weakness from a different supplement that contained hidden B6 [2].

What is Vitamin B6?
Vitamin B6 (also called pyridoxine) is important for healthy nerves, brain function, and metabolism. You normally get enough from food such as chicken, fish, bananas, and potatoes [3].
When does it become harmful?

• Safe from food: You cannot overdose on B6 through diet [3].
• Supplements are the risk: High or long-term doses can cause nerve damage (neuropathy), leading to numbness, tingling, and trouble walking [3].
• Even “moderate” amounts—if taken daily across multiple supplements—can build up to dangerous levels [3].

Did You Know?

• The recommended daily intake of Vitamin B6 is about 1.5–2 mg for adults [2].
• Some supplements contain 50–200 mg in a single tablet — more than 100 times the daily need [2].
• Long-term use of such high doses can damage your nerves [2,3].

Why this matters
Many people don’t realise that B6 is hidden in common products like multivitamins, energy powders, or “muscle recovery” formulas [5]. Taking more than one can quickly push intake too high.
The takeaway

• Always check supplement labels carefully.
• Don’t assume “more is better” when it comes to vitamins.
• If you notice tingling, burning, or weakness in your hands or feet or legs, see your doctor.

Vitamins are helpful—but only in the right dose!

References
1. 7NEWS. Excruciating class action looms over Blackmores after Vitamin B6 toxicity causes tragic injuries to expecting father. Available from: https://7news.com.au/news/excruciating-class-action-looms-over-blackmores-after-vitamin-b6-toxicity-causes-tragic-injuries-to-expecting-father-c-19413643
2. ABC News. Australians may be damaging their health by taking high doses of vitamin B6. Published Jan 2025. Available from: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-01-08/vitamin-b6-toxicity-peripheral-neuropathy-health-supplements/104793006
3. StatPearls [Internet]. Vitamin B6 Toxicity. National Centre for Biotechnology Information. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554500/