Loestrin 21 1/20 & Vitamin B6
Depletes Vitamin B6. This medication is commonly used for Contraception
Why Loestrin 21 1/20 affects Vitamin B6
Research suggests that oral contraceptives (OCs) may play a role in vitamin B6 deficiency. A deficiency is concerning because vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in mood regulation and blood sugar control. Some women using OCs experience symptoms like depression and impaired glucose tolerance, which could potentially be linked to this vitamin B6 deficiency. Low vitamin B6 levels are independently associated with an increased risk of blood clots in both arteries and veins (venous and arterial thromboembolism, or TE). This association suggests that the B6 deficiency caused by OCs might partly explain the higher risk of TE observed in women using birth control pills. This highlights the importance of ensuring adequate vitamin B6 intake for women on OCs and therefore supplementation should be considered.
Clinical Evidence
Lussana F, Zighetti ML, Bucciarelli P, Cugno M, Cattaneo M. Blood levels of homocysteine, folate, vitamin B6 and B12 in women using oral contraceptives compared to non-users. Thromb Res. 2003;112(1-2):37-41.Shikh EV, Makhova AA, Chemeris AV, Tormyshov IA. [Iatrogenic deficits of micronutrients]. Vopr Pitan. 2021;90(4):53-63. Russian. Palmery M, Saraceno A, Vaiarelli A, Carlomagno G. Oral contraceptives and changes in nutritional requirements. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2013 Jul;17(13):1804-13. PMID: 23852908. Victor Wynn. Vitamins and Oral Contraceptives. The Lancet. Volume 305, Issue 7906, March 08, 1975.
Recommended Replacement
Vitamin B6 (50% Pyridoxine HCL, 50% P-5-P) — 10 mg
Supplement Recommendation
Vitamin B6 (50% Pyridoxine and 50% P-5-P) by Pure Encapsulations — 10 mg
Other Nutrients Affected by Loestrin 21 1/20
- Vitamin B12 — Depletion
- Folic Acid — Depletion
- Zinc — Depletion
- Magnesium — Depletion
- Vitamin C — Depletion
- Vitamin B1 — Depletion
- Vitamin E — Suppression
- Tyrosine — Suppression
- Vitamin B2 — Suppression
Get Support
Prolonged use of Loestrin 21 1/20 can leave gaps in your nutrition. A targeted supplement can help restore balance while you continue treatment.
Birth Control Support™
A bespoke formula designed to replenish the nutrients depleted by Loestrin 21 1/20.
Once Daily Capsule · Rx Not Required
Learn More