Vitamin B6 exists in three primary forms—pyridoxine hydrochloride, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine—all of which must be converted by the liver into the activated form known as pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P).

Benefits of the Formula

P-5-P is the active form of vitamin B6 directly utilized by the body. It serves as a critical cofactor for more than 100 enzyme reactions, primarily those involved in protein and amino acid metabolism, including the synthesis of key neurotransmitters. Additionally, it is essential for the production of heme, carbohydrate metabolism, and fatty acid synthesis.

P-5-P is especially recommended for individuals who have impaired abilities to convert other forms of vitamin B6 into this active coenzyme. This group includes elderly individuals, children with autism spectrum disorders, individuals with impaired liver function, celiac disease, or other conditions affecting nutrient absorption. It can also benefit individuals with conditions that respond positively to higher doses and better absorption of vitamin B6, such as:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Peripheral neuropathies

• Premenstrual syndrome (including water retention)

• Morning sickness

• Elevated homocysteine levels

• Gestational diabetes and type 2 diabetes

• Depression and anxiety

• Fatigue

Vitamin B6 is naturally present in many foods; however, certain metabolic conditions and commonly prescribed pharmaceutical medications can hinder its absorption and/or create increased demands beyond typical dietary intake.

Oral contraceptives and chronic use of NSAIDs may inhibit vitamin B6 absorption. (Many oral contraceptives have been linked to an increased risk of venous thromboembolism, with reduced B6 levels potentially contributing.) Additionally, celiac disease, increased intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”), and other conditions disrupting nutrient absorption may further elevate the need for supplemental vitamin B6.

Neurotransmitter Synthesis

P-5-P is an essential cofactor for aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC), an enzyme facilitating the conversion of 5-HTP to serotonin and L-Dopa to dopamine. Low vitamin B6 levels may explain why some individuals do not benefit from supplementation with L-tryptophan or 5-HTP. Serotonin plays a well-known role in mood regulation, and marginal levels of B6 are associated with depressive symptoms, especially in older adults.

The GABA/glutamate cycle is another neurotransmitter system reliant on P-5-P. Vitamin B6 acts as a cofactor for glutamate decarboxylase, the enzyme converting glutamate to GABA, as well as for GABA transaminase, responsible for breaking down GABA back into glutamate.

Moreover, P-5-P is a coenzyme for 5-aminolevulinic acid synthase, integral to the synthesis of heme, the iron-containing component of hemoglobin. Given hemoglobin’s crucial role in oxygen transport, alongside P-5-P’s neurotransmitter synthesis functions, vitamin B6 deficiency is unsurprisingly linked to depression and fatigue. Low serum levels of vitamin B6 and iron are also associated with panic attacks and hyperventilation.

Carbohydrate Metabolism and Fatty Acid Synthesis

Vitamin B6 is essential for gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis, processes vital for maintaining stable blood glucose levels and energy production. P-5-P acts as a coenzyme for glycogen phosphorylase, catalyzing the breakdown of glycogen into glucose-1-phosphate in liver and muscle tissues. Consequently, much of the body’s P-5-P is stored in muscles bound to glycogen phosphorylase. Additionally, P-5-P is a cofactor for several gluconeogenesis enzymes, enabling amino acids to convert into glucose.

All transaminase enzymes require P-5-P as a cofactor. Transaminases catalyze amino acid interconversion and convert amino acids into substrates for gluconeogenesis or intermediates in the ATP-generating citric acid cycle. Due to its association with muscle glycogen phosphorylase, active P-5-P is predominantly found in animal sources (including poultry and fish), while plant-based foods primarily contain vitamin B6 as pyridoxine.

Suggested Use: 1-3 capsules daily or as directed by your healthcare provider.

Serving Size: 1 Capsule

Vitamin B6 (as pyridoxal 5’-phosphate): 30 mg (1,765%)

Magnesium (as TRAACS® magnesium bisglycinate chelate): 100 mg