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Low vitamin B6

Also called: Low vitamin B6

Low vitamin B6 can cause anemia, mouth sores, and nerve problems.

Common causesPoor diet, absorption problems, alcohol, some medicines
Usually serious?Can be
Get checked ifSymptoms or risk factors
If you think it's an emergency, call 911.Thinking about suicide? Call or text 988.

Overview

Some medicines lower B6.

A blood test can check levels.

When to get medical care

Call 911Not an emergency.
Get care todayConfusion, trouble walking, or severe symptoms.
See a doctor soonSymptoms or a low test result.

Causes

Causes include alcohol, kidney disease, and some medicines.

OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause low vitamin b6. Each shows how soon to get care.

Common causes

  • Vitamin B6 deficiencySee a doctor if it doesn't get better

    Low vitamin B6 can cause numb or tingling hands and feet, cracks at the corners of the mouth, a sore tongue, a scaly rash, low mood, and confusion.

What you can do at home

  • Eat foods rich in vitamin B6: poultry, fish, potatoes, bananas
  • Take supplements only as your provider advises.

Medicines

Supplements or shots, depending on the cause.

At the doctor

Blood tests check levels.

Questions you may be asked

  • Diet
  • Alcohol
  • Medicines
  • Digestive problems

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

  • Blood test

Prevention

Eat a varied diet.

  • Balanced meals
  • Limit alcohol

Check your symptoms

Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.

Start the symptom checker

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.