Life Extension Vitamin B6 250 mg
Brand: Life Extension · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product contains 250 mg of vitamin B6, which is over 100 times the Recommended Dietary Allowance for adults. While vitamin B6 is essential for numerous bodily functions, this is a very high dose that should only be taken under medical supervision for a specific, diagnosed deficiency or condition. For general health, this amount is not recommended due to potential nerve toxicity.
How it works
Vitamin B6, in its active form, acts as a coenzyme for over 100 enzymes involved in metabolism, brain development, and immune function. It is critical for the creation of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which affect mood and sleep, and it helps convert food into energy. However, at the 250 mg level in this product, the mechanism shifts from nutritional support to pharmacological action, which carries different risks.
Safety profile
Data not available for specific side effect reports for this exact product. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories [FDA data]. The primary safety concern with high-dose vitamin B6 is sensory neuropathy, which can cause numbness and tingling in the hands and feet. This risk is well-documented with prolonged intakes above 200 mg daily. High levels of any nutrient can cause toxicity, and this dose far exceeds the safe upper limit of 100 mg per day established by the Institute of Medicine [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation is to avoid taking 250 mg of vitamin B6 without a healthcare provider's guidance. For general health, a standard multivitamin provides adequate B6. If you are considering this product for a specific purpose like nerve pain or premenstrual syndrome, discuss safer, lower-dose alternatives with your doctor. The risks of nerve damage from this high dose outweigh the potential benefits for most people.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 Vegetarian Capsule(s) |
| Market Status | Off Market |
How to Read This Label
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