Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has announced a major regulatory change concerning vitamin B6 supplements, following hundreds of reports of serious nerve damage linked to their long-term use.
New Restrictions on Vitamin B6 Sales
From June 2027, any vitamin B6 product containing more than 50mg per recommended daily dose will be moved behind pharmacy counters and will only be available with pharmacist advice. This decision comes after the TGA identified 250 reports of peripheral neuropathy and related conditions, with most cases reported since 2023.
Dr Evangeline Mantzioris, a sports dietitian at the University of South Australia, supports the changes, stating that the rapid market growth of vitamin B enriched products and aggressive marketing make these protections essential for public safety.
Understanding Vitamin B6 Toxicity Risks
While the body can eliminate some excess vitamin B6, it cannot efficiently remove it all. Over time, toxic levels can accumulate in the blood, leading to peripheral neuropathy - damage to nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
Symptoms include tingling, burning, or numbness, typically in the hands or feet. Continued exposure without diagnosis can cause permanent nerve damage.
The recommended dietary intake for healthy adults is just 1.3mg to 1.7mg daily, which is easily met through a varied diet containing fruits, vegetables, animal foods, and dairy. Dr Mantzioris notes that vitamin B6 deficiency is uncommon in Australia.
Why the Delay and What to Do Now
The TGA has set the implementation date for June 2027 to allow industry, healthcare practitioners, and businesses time to update product labelling and manage stock.
In the meantime, consumers should:
- Check product labels for vitamin B6 (also listed as pyridoxine, pyridoxamine, or pyridoxal)
- Avoid high-dose supplements without medical guidance
- Seek immediate medical advice if experiencing tingling, burning, or numbness in hands or feet
Dr Mantzioris advises erring on the side of safety: "I would probably err on the side of safety and not want to consume any supplements that have the higher levels in them without a proven deficiency and doctor guidance."
Products with 50mg or less per daily dose will remain available for general sale, while preparations containing more than 200mg will continue to require a prescription.
