Dr. Clark Research Association Dr. Clark Zentrum Vitamin B6 250 mg

Our assessment

The evidence shows that this product contains 250 mg of vitamin B6 per serving, which is an extremely high dose. The tolerable upper intake level for adults is 100 mg per day [NIH ODS]. Taking this amount daily over a long period poses a significant and well-documented risk of nerve damage. We advise against using this supplement without strict medical supervision.

How it works

Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that acts as a coenzyme in over 100 enzymatic reactions. It is essential for amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis (including serotonin and dopamine), and red blood cell formation [NIH ODS]. While your body needs B6 for these critical functions, the dose in this product far exceeds what is necessary to meet those needs.

Safety profile

The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for all dietary supplements, though specific data for this product is not available. For vitamin B6 specifically, taking 250 mg daily is well above the safe limit of 100 mg per day. Chronic use at this level can lead to a condition called sensory neuropathy, causing numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, which may be irreversible [NIH ODS]. Other potential side effects from excessive intake include nausea, heartburn, and sensitivity to sunlight [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

Data not available for a safe daily dose at this level. We cannot recommend taking 250 mg of vitamin B6 daily. The established safe upper limit is 100 mg per day for adults [NIH ODS]. If you are considering this product for a specific health concern, please consult your doctor or a clinical pharmacist first to discuss your actual B6 status and a much safer dosage.

Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:

• Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
• Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
• % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
• Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
• Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.

Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide