In some adults, vitamin B6 deficiency can manifest as a distal, symmetric peripheral neuropathy that is predominantly sensory rather than motor, with numbness, tingling, or burning pain starting in the feet and hands. Clinical descriptions note that this large‑fiber neuropathy often produces loss of vibration and position sense with relatively preserved pain and temperature sensation, which can lead to sensory ataxia and gait unsteadiness in more advanced cases. The practical point is that, because both B6 deficiency and excess can cause peripheral neuropathy, it is important to assess B6 status in patients with otherwise unexplained distal sensory symptoms and to correct deficiencies. This medication is commonly used for High Cholesterol.
Miguel Chuquilin Arista, et al. Pyridoxine Deficiency in Patients with Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms. Neurology Journals. A Case Series (P01.137). February 12, 2013 issue 80 (7_supplement) P01.137. Sawhney A, Singhal S, Patel R (July 10, 2022) Isolated Pyridoxine Deficiency Presenting as Peripheral Neuropathy Post-chemotherapy. Cureus 14(7): e26725. Renting L, Zwart NRK, Ueland PM, McCann A, Ulvik A, van Halteren HK, et al. Vitamin B6 status and chronic chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: a prospective cohort study among patients with non-metastatic colorectal cancer receiving oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy. BMJ Oncology. 2024;3:e000462
Some side effects may be linked to nutrient depletion caused by this medication.
Fenofibrate has been shown in studies to increase the toxic effect of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that may lead to side effects such as hives, itching, and skin rash. Taking vitamin C before UV exposure is found in research to significantly help block UV-fenofibrate effects on the skin. Vitamin C supplementation should be considered when taking this drug therapy.
Research demonstrates that fibrates, particularly fenofibrate, are known to increase homocysteine levels. Elevated levels of homocysteine is associated with increased risk of a range of health problems including atherosclerosis, stroke, and neurological diseases, and vitamin Bs including vitamin B6 helps facilitate the breakdown of homocysteine and may be helpful in reducing homocysteine levels.
Fenofibrate has been shown in studies to increase the toxic effect of ultraviolet (UV) radiation that may lead to side effects such as hives, itching, and skin rash. Taking vitamin E before UV exposure is found in research to significantly help block UV-fenofibrate effects on the skin. Vitamin E supplementation should be considered when taking this drug therapy.