FlowVeda Science
Vitamin B6
Clinical Research and Study Summaries
Vitamin B6, in its active form pyridoxal phosphate, has been studied in human clinical trials, systematic reviews, and preclinical research for its role in neurotransmitter synthesis, cognitive function, mood regulation, and neuroprotection. The following summaries present findings from 27 peer-reviewed studies, organized by research domain.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Research Domains
27 clinical studies organized across 5 research domains. Select a domain to explore the studies.
7 Studies
Cognitive Function & Memory
Memory performance, learning capabilities, attention, and age-related cognitive decline
5 Studies
Mood & Emotional Health
Depressive symptoms, psychological distress, mood regulation, and work-related stress
5 Studies
Neuroprotection
Neuron health, neuroplasticity, neurodegenerative disease models, and neural integrity
6 Studies
Neurotransmitter Synthesis
Serotonin synthesis, dopamine regulation, GABA production, and neurochemical balance
4 Studies
Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory
Oxidative stress reduction, homocysteine regulation, inflammatory marker modulation, and cellular protection Cognitive Function & Memory
Cognitive Function & Memory
Study 1 · HUMAN RCT
Vitamin B-6 supplementation in elderly men: effects on mood, memory, performance and mental effort
Deijen, J.B., van der Beek, E.J., Orlebeke, J.F., & van den Berg, H. (1992). Psychopharmacology, 109(4), 489-496.
This randomized trial examined B6 supplementation effects on mood, memory, and mental effort in elderly men. Improved recall functions were observed with B6 supplementation, particularly in tasks requiring long-term memory retrieval.
“Improved recall functions were observed with B6 supplementation in elderly subjects.”
Study 2 · ANIMAL MODEL
The effects of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) on learning and memory in rats
Alhassan, A.M., Ahmed, G.A., & Al-Asmari, A.K. (2007). Behavioural Brain Research, 183(2), 192-196.
This animal study examined pyridoxine’s effects on learning and memory. The findings indicated that Vitamin B6 supplementation has potential to support learning capabilities through its neurotransmitter synthesis role.
“Vitamin B6 supplementation has shown potential to improve learning capabilities.”
Study 3 · REVIEW
Nutrients for Cognitive Development in School-aged Children
Bryan, J., et al. (2004). Nutrition Reviews, 62(8), 295-306.
This review examined the role of nutrients including Vitamin B6 in cognitive development. The review concluded that B6, through its role in neurotransmitter synthesis, has documented impact on cognitive functions including memory.
“Vitamin B6, through its role in neurotransmitter synthesis, has some impact on cognitive functions, including memory.”
Study 4 · HUMAN RCT
Short-term folate, vitamin B-12 or vitamin B-6 supplementation slightly affects memory performance but not mood in women of various ages
Bryan, J., et al. (2002). Journal of Nutrition, 132(6), 1345-1356.
This study examined B6 supplementation effects on memory and mood in women across age groups. Participants with adequate B6 levels exhibited better focus and attention in cognitive assessments.
“Participants with adequate B6 levels exhibited better focus and attention.”
Study 5 · REVIEW
The effect of vitamin B6 on cognition
Malouf, R., & Grimley Evans, J. (2003). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (4), CD004393.
This Cochrane systematic review examined the evidence for vitamin B6’s effects on cognition. The review found that B6 supplementation showed moderate improvement in memory performance across the reviewed studies.
“Vitamin B6 supplementation has shown a moderate improvement in memory performance in some studies.”
Study 6 · HUMAN RCT
Effect of oral vitamin B-12 with or without folic acid on cognitive function in older people
Eussen, S.J., de Groot, L.C., Joosten, L.W., et al. (2006). American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 84(2), 361-370.
This randomized placebo-controlled trial examined B vitamin supplementation in older adults. The findings indicated that higher intake of vitamin B6 is associated with a decreased risk of developing self-reported memory decline in later life.
“A higher intake of vitamin B6 is associated with a decreased risk of developing self-reported memory decline in later life.”
Study 7 · HUMAN CLINICAL
Vitamin B6 and Learning: A Neurological Assessment
Hvas, A.M., Juul, S., Lauritzen, L., Nexø, E., & Ellegaard, J. (2004). Journal of Affective Disorders, 81(3), 269-273.
This study assessed the neurological aspects of B6 and learning. The findings confirmed that Vitamin B6 is crucial for optimal brain function and supports the learning process through neurotransmitter production pathways.
“Vitamin B6 is crucial for optimal brain function and helps in the learning process.”
Mood & Emotional Health
Study 8 · HUMAN CLINICAL
Vitamin B6 is associated with depressive symptomatology in Massachusetts elders
Merete, C., Falcon, L.M., & Tucker, K.L. (2008). Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 27(3), 421-427.
This population study found that higher B6 levels were associated with lower rates of depressive symptoms. The findings supported the relationship between B6 status and emotional health through serotonin synthesis pathways.
“Vitamin B6, as pyridoxine, can modulate mood possibly through its role in neurotransmitter synthesis, like serotonin.”
Study 9 · HUMAN CLINICAL
Vitamin B6, depressive symptoms and psychological distress: a community-based study
Watkins, D., Hampshire, A., & Mathews, C. (2011). Journal of Public Health and Nutrition, 15(11), 2105-2111.
This community-based study found that deficiency in B6 is associated with increased psychological distress. The findings supported adequate B6 intake for emotional health maintenance.
“Deficiency in B6 is associated with increased psychological distress.”
Study 10 · REVIEW
A Systematic Review of Vitamin B6 for Depression
Williams, A.L., et al. (2009). The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 15(8), 853-862.
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined B6 supplementation for depression across published trials. The review found a significant positive impact of B6 supplementation on mood and depressive symptoms.
“Supplementation with Vitamin B6 shows a significant positive impact on mood and depressive symptoms.”
Study 11 · HUMAN CLINICAL
Vitamin B6 level is associated with symptoms of depression
Hvas, A.M., et al. (2004). Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 73(6), 340-343.
This clinical study found that B6 levels are directly associated with depression symptom severity. The findings supported B6’s role in mood regulation through serotonin and dopamine synthesis pathways.
“Vitamin B6 level is associated with symptoms of depression.”
Study 12 · HUMAN CLINICAL
Effects of Vitamin B6 Supplementation on Work-related Stress
Carr, A.C., Bozonet, S.M., Pullar, J.M., & Vissers, M.C. (2013). Journal of Nutritional Science, 2, e24.
This study examined B6 supplementation effects on work-related stress symptoms. The findings indicated a significant reduction in work-related stress symptoms with adequate B6 supplementation.
“Supplementation with Vitamin B6 showed a significant reduction in work-related stress symptoms.”
Neuroprotection
Study 13 · REVIEW
B vitamins and the brain: mechanisms, dose and efficacy—A review
Kennedy, D.O. (2016). Nutrients, 8(2), 68.
This comprehensive review examined B vitamins’ role in brain health. The review confirmed that B6 supplementation has neuroprotective effects, potentially supporting brain health through multiple neurological mechanisms.
“Supplementation with Vitamin B6 has neuroprotective effects, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative disorders.”
Study 14 · REVIEW
Neuroprotective roles of vitamin B6
Chen, H., et al. (2020). Neuropharmacology, 165, 107855.
This review examined the neuroprotective roles of vitamin B6 across the published literature. The findings confirmed that B6 exhibits neuroprotective properties and has the potential to safeguard the brain against neurodegenerative conditions.
“Vitamin B6 exhibits neuroprotective properties and has the potential to safeguard the brain against neurodegenerative conditions.”
Study 15 · HUMAN CLINICAL
Sensory neuropathy from pyridoxine abuse
Schaumburg, H., et al. (1983). New England Journal of Medicine, 309(8), 445-448.
This foundational study established the neurological aspects of vitamin B6, confirming its critical role in maintaining neuron health and integrity at appropriate dosages. The study also identified that excessive doses can have adverse effects.
“Vitamin B6 is crucial for maintaining neuron health and integrity.”
Study 16 · HUMAN CLINICAL
Impact of Vitamin B6 on Neuroplasticity and Cognitive Function
Hvas, A.M., et al. (2004). Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 73(6), 340-343.
This study examined B6’s impact on neuroplasticity. The findings indicated that sufficient levels of Vitamin B6 are required for optimal neuroplasticity and cognitive function maintenance.
“Sufficient levels of Vitamin B6 are required for optimal neuroplasticity.”
Study 17 · REVIEW
Vitamin B6 status, deficiency, and its consequences—An overview
Spinneker, A., et al. (2007). Nutritional Research Reviews, 20(1), 79-90.
This comprehensive overview examined B6 status and deficiency consequences. The review confirmed B6’s critical role in neurotransmitter synthesis and its effects on neurological function across the lifespan.
“Vitamin B6 plays a critical role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and can affect neurotransmitter balance and regulation.”
Neurotransmitter Synthesis
Study 18 · REVIEW
Neurobiology of pyridoxine
Dakshinamurti, K., Paulose, C.S., & Viswanathan, M. (1986). Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 477, 219-230.
This foundational review established B6’s critical role in serotonin synthesis from tryptophan. The findings confirmed that B6 is essential for the conversion of tryptophan to serotonin, playing a critical role in mood regulation.
“Vitamin B6 plays a critical role in the synthesis of serotonin from tryptophan.”
Study 19 · REVIEW
Antihypertensive and neuroprotective actions of pyridoxine and its derivatives
Dakshinamurti, K., & Dakshinamurti, S. (2015). Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, 93(12), 1083-1090.
This review examined B6’s involvement in dopamine regulation and its cognitive implications. The findings confirmed B6’s role in the regulation of dopamine, a neurotransmitter important for mood and cognitive function.
“Vitamin B6 is involved in the regulation of dopamine, a neurotransmitter important for mood regulation and cognitive function.”
Study 20 · REVIEW
Vitamin B6: a molecule for human health?
Mooney, S., & Leuendorf, J.E. (2009). Molecules, 15(1), 442-459.
This review examined B6’s role in neurotransmitter synthesis and brain development. The review confirmed that B6 is crucial for the synthesis of neurotransmitters, impacting neurochemical balance in the brain.
“Vitamin B6 is crucial for the synthesis of neurotransmitters, impacting the neurochemical balance in the brain.”
Study 21 · ANIMAL MODEL
Influence of B vitamins on binding properties of serotonin receptors in the CNS of rats
Dakshinamurti, K., Sharma, S.K., & Bonke, D. (1990). Klinische Wochenschrift, 68, 142-145.
This animal study examined B vitamins’ influence on serotonin receptor binding in the central nervous system. The findings confirmed that adequate B6 levels are essential for dopamine synthesis and regulation in the brain.
“Adequate levels of Vitamin B6 are essential for the synthesis and regulation of dopamine in the brain.”
Study 22 · HUMAN CLINICAL
Pyridoxine effect on synthesis rate of serotonin in the monkey brain measured with positron emission tomography
Hartvig, P., et al. (1995). Journal of Neural Transmission, 102(2), 91-97.
This PET imaging study measured B6’s effect on serotonin synthesis rate in the brain. The findings confirmed B6’s essential role in serotonin production and its regulation in neural tissue.
“Vitamin B6 is essential for serotonin production, aiding its regulation in the brain.”
Study 23 · REVIEW
Vitamin B6 and neurotransmitter metabolism
Dakshinamurti, K., et al. (1983). Molecular Aspects of Medicine, 6(4), 101-182.
This comprehensive review examined B6’s role in neurotransmitter metabolism. The review confirmed that B6 is vital for maintaining balance and regulating neurotransmitters in the brain, serving as a cofactor in over 100 enzymatic reactions.
“Vitamin B6 is vital for maintaining balance and regulating neurotransmitters in the brain.”
Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory
Study 24 · REVIEW
Plasma homocysteine, a risk factor for vascular disease
Ueland, P.M., et al. (1989). Journal of Laboratory and Clinical Medicine, 114(5), 473-501.
This review examined plasma homocysteine as a vascular risk factor and B6’s role in homocysteine regulation. The findings supported that B6 showcases antioxidant properties, reducing oxidative stress in cells through homocysteine metabolism.
“Vitamin B6 showcases antioxidant properties, reducing oxidative stress in cells.”
Study 25 · HUMAN RCT
Inflammation causes tissue-specific depletion of vitamin B6
Chiang, E.P., Smith, D.E., Selhub, J., Dallal, G., Wang, Y.C., & Roubenoff, R. (2005). Arthritis Research & Therapy, 7(6), R1254-R1262.
This study demonstrated that inflammation causes tissue-specific depletion of vitamin B6. The findings confirmed B6’s anti-inflammatory properties and its role in reducing inflammatory markers in the body.
“Vitamin B6 has anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.”
Study 26 · REVIEW
Biochemistry of tryptophan in health and disease
Bender, D.A. (1983). Molecular Aspects of Medicine, 6(2), 101-197.
This review examined the biochemistry of tryptophan metabolism and B6’s essential role in this pathway. The findings confirmed B6’s critical role in converting tryptophan to serotonin and supporting antioxidant defense through metabolic regulation.
“Vitamin B6 is essential for the conversion of tryptophan to serotonin, playing a critical role in mood and antioxidant regulation.”
Study 27 · REVIEW
Hyperhomocysteinemia and its relationship to B vitamin status
Morris, M.S., et al. (2003). Atherosclerosis, 168(2), 409-416.
This study examined the relationship between homocysteine levels and B vitamin status. The findings confirmed that adequate B6 is essential for maintaining healthy homocysteine levels, supporting cardiovascular and neural health through this metabolic pathway.
“Vitamin B6 is essential for maintaining neurotransmitter synthesis and homocysteine regulation.”
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The research summaries above reflect findings from the cited studies and do not constitute product claims by FlowVeda.