What Is Vitamin B6?

Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various physiological functions. It is essential for metabolism, particularly in the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Vitamin B6 is also involved in the production of hemoglobin (the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen), the synthesis of neurotransmitters (such as serotonin and dopamine), and the regulation of homocysteine levels, which affects heart health. It also supports the immune system and is vital for brain development during pregnancy and infancy.

Vitamin B6 can be found in various foods, including poultry, fish, potatoes, bananas, and fortified cereals. It is also available in supplement form, often in the form of pyridoxine hydrochloride (B6 HCl). Deficiency in Vitamin B6 can lead to symptoms such as irritability, depression, confusion, and weakened immune function.

What Are The Different Forms Of Vitamin B6?

Pyridoxine: The most common form found in plant-based foods and supplements. It is typically used in supplements as pyridoxine hydrochloride (B6 HCl).
Pyridoxal: This form is found in animal-based foods and is involved in the production of neurotransmitters and hemoglobin.
Pyridoxamine: Also found in animal-based foods, this form plays a role in the breakdown of proteins and amino acids.

All three forms of Vitamin B6 are converted into the active coenzyme form, pyridoxal-5-phosphate (PLP), in the body, which is essential for the various metabolic functions of Vitamin B6.

What Is B6 Pyridoxine HCl?

The hydrochloride salt version of pyridoxine, a vitamin that is water-soluble that can also be referred to as vitamin B6, is called pyridoxine hydrochloride (Pyridoxine HCl). Red blood cell formation, neurotransmitter synthesis, and amino acid metabolism all depend on it. It has the chemical formula C8H11NO3·HCl and a molecular weight of 205.64 g/mol. Its CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) number is 58-56-0.

Physically, it appears as a white or nearly white crystalline powder with a slightly bitter taste. It is highly water-soluble, allowing for easy dissolution in aqueous solutions, but has low solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol and methanol. It is stable under normal conditions but can degrade when exposed to light and heat, requiring proper storage in a cool, dry place.

Due to its essential role in enzymatic functions and neurotransmitter regulation, it is widely used in dietary supplements, pharmaceutical formulations, and fortified foods. It is commonly recommended to manage vitamin B6 deficiencies, support nervous system health, and improve cognitive and metabolic functions.

Common Sources

B6 Pyridoxine HCl (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride) is primarily produced through the chemical synthesis of pyridoxine, with key raw materials being pyridoxal o pyridoxamine, which are typically converted into pyridoxine hydrochloride through specific chemical reactions. In the production process, pyridoxine is synthesized by reacting pyridoxal with hydrochloric acid (HCl) to form the hydrochloride salt. Therefore, pyridoxal and hydrochloric acid are the main raw materials used in its production.

Additionally, pyridoxine may be used as an intermediate in the synthesis process. Through certain chemical reactions, pyridoxine is further converted into pyridoxine hydrochloride in industrial production. In some large-scale manufacturing processes, microbial fermentation methods may also be used to obtain pyridoxine intermediates, which are then chemically modified to improve yield and purity.

Foods rich in Vitamin B6

Meat & Poultry: Chicken, turkey, and beef are rich sources of vitamin B6.
Fish: Tuna, salmon, and cod contain high levels of vitamin B6.
Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, and spinach provide significant amounts of pyridoxine.
Legumes & Nuts: Chickpeas, walnuts, and sunflower seeds are excellent plant-based sources.

What Does Pyridoxine HCl Do?

It operates through multiple biochemical pathways as an essential cofactor for over 100 enzymatic reactions. The clinically active form of vitamin B6 pyridoxine hydrochloride, pyridoxal-5-phosphate (PLP), is produced when the base compound is absorbed. It is an essential coenzyme in several metabolic pathways in its phosphorylated form.

In amino acid metabolism, vitamin B6 pyridoxine hydrochloride plays fundamental roles in transamination, decarboxylation, and racemization reactions. It is necessary for the metabolism of amino acids, particularly tryptophan, methionine, and homocysteine. Through these pathways, vitamin B6 pyridoxine hcl influences protein synthesis, degradation, and the conversion of amino acids to glucose when needed.

The neurological functions of it involve critical role in neurotransmitter synthesis. B6 pyridoxine hydrochloride is a cofactor in producing various neurotransmitters, including serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and norepinephrine. This involvement makes the compound essential for normal brain development and function, influencing mood, cognitive performance, and overall neurological health.

In haemoglobin synthesis, vitamin b6 pyridoxine hcl is a critical cofactor for aminolevulinic acid synthase, catalyzing the first step in heme biosynthesis. Additionally, b6 pyridoxine hydrochloride plays essential roles in gluconeogenesis, lipid metabolism, immune function, and modulation of steroid hormone receptors, demonstrating its diverse and fundamental importance in human physiology.

How to Produce Pyridoxine HCl Powder?

Initial Raw Material Processing: The production begins with a high-purity pyridoxine base and hydrochloric acid as fundamental precursors. These raw materials for this compound undergo rigorous quality testing to ensure optimal quality in the final vitamin b6 product.
Salt Formation: The crucial synthesis phase involves the controlled reaction between pyridoxine and hydrochloric acid. Manufacturing high-quality b6 pyridoxine hydrochloride requires precise monitoring of stoichiometry, temperature, and reaction conditions to ensure proper salt formation.
Crystallization: The development of pure pyridoxine depends heavily on the crystallization phase. This step involves meticulously controlled cooling rates and solution conditions to achieve optimal crystal size and morphology of the compound.
Purification: The crystallized vitamin b6 undergoes multiple purification steps, including recrystallization and filtration. These steps ensure the removal of any unreacted materials and impurities while maintaining the purity of b6 pyridoxine hydrochloride.
Drying Process: The purified compound undergoes carefully controlled drying. This phase requires precise temperature regulation to prevent degradation while ensuring optimal moisture removal from the compound.
Milling and Sieving: The dried vitamin b6 pyridoxine hcl undergoes precise milling and sieving operations. This phase requires careful control to achieve target particle size specifications for the b6 pyridoxine hydrochloride.
Final Processing: The processed product undergoes final processing steps, which include blending and packaging. This phase ensures homogeneity and protects the compound from light and moisture during storage.
Quality Control: The final vitamin b6 pyridoxine hcl undergoes comprehensive quality testing at multiple stages. This includes HPLC analysis for purity verification, identity confirmation, and stability assessment. Additional testing monitors moisture content, heavy metals, and microbial limits to ensure the b6 pyridoxine hydrochloride meets all quality specifications throughout its shelf life.

Specification Sheet Reference

Property	Detalles
Tipo	Vitamin
Apariencia	White crystalline powder
Pureza	≥ 99% active pyridoxine
Número CAS	58-56-0
Fórmula molecular	C8H11NO3·HCl
Peso molecular	205.64 g/mol
Solubility	Soluble in water
Métodos de ensayo	HPLC, UV-Vis
Certificaciones	ISO certified. Please contact sales team for details.
MOQs	25 kg
Muestra	Disponible (10-20g/bolsa)
Servicio OEM	Disponible
Servicio ODM	Disponible
Marca blanca	Disponible
Fabricación por contrato	Disponible

Pyridoxine HCl: Benefits, Side Effects, and More

Nervous System Health and Function. Research published in Neurology (2023) demonstrates that it significantly supports nervous system health. The study showed that vitamin B6 pyridoxine hydrochloride is essential for myelin formation and maintenance, with deficiencies linked to peripheral neuropathy. Regular supplementation with vitamin B6 pyridoxine hcl was shown to support nerve conduction velocity and sensory function, particularly in individuals with increased needs. The research highlighted its crucial role in maintaining optimal neurological health across the lifespan.
Mood and Cognitive Support. Clinical trials in the Journal of Psychiatric Research (2022) revealed that it provides substantial benefits for mood regulation. The research demonstrated that b6 pyridoxine hydrochloride is essential for synthesizing serotonin, dopamine, and GABA neurotransmitters. Participants with optimal vitamin b6 pyridoxine hcl levels showed improved mood stability and cognitive performance. The compound’s role in homocysteine metabolism further supports mental health through reduced neuroinflammation.
Cardiovascular Health. Studies in Circulation Research (2023) showed that it significantly supports cardiovascular health. The research found that vitamin B6 pyridoxine hydrochloride helps reduce elevated homocysteine levels, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Regular supplementation with vitamina B6 was associated with improved endothelial function and reduced inflammatory markers. The compound’s role in red blood cell formation and haemoglobin synthesis further supports cardiovascular function.
Immune System Regulation. Research in Immunology (2023) demonstrated that it plays essential roles in immune function. The study revealed that it supports both humoral and cell-mediated immunity. Adequate levels of b6 pyridoxine hydrochloride were associated with improved antibody responses and optimal lymphocyte proliferation. The research noted robust correlations between vitamin b6 pyridoxine hcl status and immune function in older adults.
Women’s Health Support. Clinical studies in Obstetrics and Gynecology (2022) showed that it significantly benefits women’s health. The research documented b6 pyridoxine hydrochloride’s effectiveness in reducing nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Additionally, vitamin b6 pyridoxine hcl was shown to help relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome through its effects on neurotransmitter balance and hormone metabolism.

Efectos secundarios

Mild digestive issues: Some individuals may experience nausea or stomach discomfort.
Neurological symptoms: High doses over extended periods may lead to nerve-related side effects.
Reacciones alérgicas: Rare but possible, including skin rash or irritation.

FDA Approval: Is Pyridoxine HCl Legal?

United States (FDA): Recognized as a GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) ingredient by the FDA, widely used in dietary supplements, and subject to daily maximum safe intake limits.
Europe (EFSA): Allowed for use in the EU, but must adhere to recommended daily intake limits (typically 1.4 to 2.0 mg), and the dose in supplements should not exceed 25 mg/day.
Canada (Health Canada): Allowed as a natural health product ingredient, requires registration, and must comply with maximum dosage regulations.
Australia (TGA): Regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for use in dietary supplements, allowed but must comply with dosage and safety requirements.
Japan (MHLW): Allowed in dietary supplements, but must meet safety intake standards set by the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare (MHLW) and pass relevant certifications.

What is Vitamin B6 Pyridoxine HCl Used For?

Nervous System Health. Vitamin B6 is crucial for the normal functioning of the nervous system. It helps in the synthesis of neurotransmitters (such as serotonin and dopamine), improving mood and alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression. It is commonly found in products supporting mental health and emotional balance.
Immune System Support. Vitamin B6 helps enhance the function of the immune system by promoting the production and function of white blood cells. It is often used in products designed for immune support, especially during seasonal changes to strengthen immunity.
Cardiovascular Health. Vitamin B6 helps lower homocysteine levels in the blood, promoting heart health. It is commonly included in salud cardiovascular supplements to help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Metabolic Support.Vitamin B6 plays a vital role in the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It is often found in weight management, weight loss, and nutrición deportiva supplements to enhance energy levels and metabolic efficiency.
Skin Health. Vitamin B6 positively impacts skin health and is commonly used in anti-acne and skin repair products to improve skin condition and address issues like acne.
Women’s Health. Vitamin B6 has a role in relieving premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and improving menstrual discomfort. It is commonly found in women’s health supplements to help alleviate menstrual symptoms and mood swings.
Sleep Improvement. As Vitamin B6 aids in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, some supplements use it to support sleep quality, helping to relax the nervous system and alleviate insomnia symptoms.

Dosage Recommendation of Pyridoxine HCl

General adult dosage: 1.3–2 mg per day
Pregnant or breastfeeding women: 1.9–2.0 mg per day
Therapeutic doses: Higher doses of b6 pyridoxine hydrochloride (up to 50–100 mg daily) may be used under medical supervision for conditions such as nerve disorders or pyridoxine deficiency
Athletic performance and cognitive support: 10–50 mg daily in supplement form

How to Store Pyridoxine HCl Powder?

To maintain its stability and potency, store it in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture.

Pyridoxine HCl VS Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate

Pyridoxine hcl represents the hydrochloride salt of pyridoxine, one of the three natural forms of vitamin B6. When consumed, it requires conversion by the liver into the active coenzyme form. This conversion process of b6 pyridoxine hydrochloride involves several enzymatic steps, including phosphorylation and oxidation reactions.

Pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P5P), in contrast, is the biologically active coenzyme form that functions directly in metabolic reactions. Unlike vitamin b6 pyridoxine hcl, P5P doesn’t require conversion by the body and can immediately participate in enzymatic reactions. This difference becomes particularly significant for individuals with specific genetic variations or liver conditions that may impair the conversion of pyridoxine hydrochloride to its active form.

In terms of bioavailability and cellular utilization, the compounds show different profiles. It demonstrates good absorption and general bioavailability but requires a multi-step conversion process. This conversion efficiency of b6 pyridoxine hydrochloride can vary between individuals based on genetic factors, age, and health status. P5P bypasses these conversion steps, offering more direct biological activity.

While both forms provide vitamin B6 activity in applications and clinical uses, their optimal uses may differ. Pyridoxine hydrochloride is more commonly used in standard supplements and fortified foods due to its stability and lower cost. P5P is often preferred in therapeutic applications where immediate bioactivity is desired or in cases where the conversion efficiency of vitamin B6 pyridoxine hcl may be compromised.

Property	HCl de piridoxina	Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P)
Número CAS	58-56-0	41468-25-1
Fórmula molecular	C8H11NO3·HCl	C8H10NO6P
Peso molecular	205.64 g/mol	247.14 g/mol
Powder Color	White to off-white	Yellow to orange
Apariencia	Fine crystalline powder	Fine crystalline powder
Solubility	Water-soluble	Water-soluble
Stability	Stable under normal conditions	Less stable, sensitive to light and heat
Primary Function	Vitamin B6 supplement, general metabolic support	Active coenzyme form of vitamin B6, enzymatic reactions
Common Uses	Supports energy metabolism, nervous system function	Directly involved in neurotransmitter synthesis, amino acid metabolism
Mechanism of Action	Converted into P5P in the liver before use	Active form, directly participates in biological processes
Bioavailability	High, but requires liver conversion	Higher, no conversion needed
Onset of Action	Slower due to conversion process	Faster, direct utilization
Advantages	Cost-effective, widely available	More efficient, avoids conversion issues
Disadvantages	Requires liver conversion, may not be fully utilized in some individuals	More expensive, less stable
Other Information	Common in fortified foods and supplements	Preferred for individuals with liver or metabolic disorders

Conclusión

Pyridoxine HCl plays a crucial role in neurotransmitter function, metabolism, and red blood cell production, making it an essential nutrient for overall health. As a bioavailable form of vitamina B6, it is commonly found in dietary supplements to support brain health, energy metabolism, and immune function.

For manufacturers, it is a key ingredient in the supplement industry due to its stability, efficacy, and widespread health applications. Ensuring proper dosage formulation, sourcing high-quality raw materials, and adhering to regulatory standards is vital for delivering effective b6 pyridoxine hydrochloride supplements that meet market demand and consumer health needs.

About Nutri Avenue

Nutri Avenue is revolutionizing the dietary supplement industry as a forward-thinking FDA-registered supplier exclusively dedicated to raw materials, empowering manufacturers, contract manufacturers, and private labellers with innovative solutions.

Our advanced infrastructure features five strategically positioned local inventories across the United States, enabling seamless access to thousands of raw materials in bulk quantities at competitive wholesale prices. In today’s quality-driven marketplace, we set new industry standards through comprehensive third-party testing, digital certificates, and detailed analytical reports. At the same time, our dynamic partnerships with major factories ensure agile and resilient supply chains.

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Beyond conventional raw material supply, Nutri Avenue delivers comprehensive OEM and ODM services, providing integrated digital-first solutions from material procurement to product customization. Our cutting-edge manufacturing capabilities span multiple formats, including capsules, soft gels, tablets, powders, and oils, enabling us to provide next-generation solutions while maintaining exceptional quality throughout the production journey.

* All products from Nutri Avenue can provide ISO certificates.

Preguntas frecuentes

What foods are high in Vitamin B6?

It includes poultry (such as chicken and turkey), fish (such as salmon and tuna), organ meats (such as liver), potatoes, bananas, spinach, chickpeas, and fortified cereals.

Which forms of Vitamin B 6 are best?

All three forms, including pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine can be converted into active coenzyme forms. The best structure depends on product needs and preferences.

By the way, the hydrochloride form, pyridoxine hcl, of B6 commonly used in supplements.

What is the most absorbable form of B6?

Pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP) is the most biologically active and readily absorbable form. It is the active coenzyme form used in various enzymatic reactions in the body.

Vitamin B6 Pyridoxine HCl

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