What the Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) Test measures
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine and related forms) helps the body use protein, make haemoglobin and produce chemical messengers in the brain. A deficiency on its own is uncommon, but it is more likely with heavy alcohol use, kidney disease and dialysis, conditions that reduce absorption from the gut, and some medicines. A familiar example in India is isoniazid, used to treat and prevent tuberculosis, which is why doctors usually prescribe B6 alongside it. Certain anti-epileptic medicines can also lower B6. Low B6 can cause cracks at the corners of the mouth, a sore tongue, a scaly skin rash, tingling or numbness, anaemia, and low mood or confusion. The test is also used in the other direction: taking high doses of B6 supplements for a long time can itself damage the nerves and cause numbness, so a doctor may check the level in someone with nerve symptoms who takes several supplements. It is a specialised test and is usually ordered when there is a specific reason rather than as a routine check.
Price: the Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) Test costs ₹3,600 at Pure Bliss (MRP ₹4,500), with the sample collected at our Action Area 2, New Town centre or at your home.
Who this test is for
- Long-term isoniazid or certain anti-epileptic medicines
- Heavy alcohol use, kidney disease or dialysis, or poor absorption from the gut
- Mouth cracks, sore tongue, skin rash or tingling without another explanation
- Nerve symptoms in someone taking high-dose B6 or several supplements
How to prepare, the sample, and when to expect the report
Preparation
Many labs ask for an overnight fast for this test; our team will confirm when booking. Tell us about all supplements you take, including B-complex tablets, and do not stop a prescribed one without asking your doctor.
Sample
Blood, from a vein in the arm.
Reporting time
Specialised test: usually within 72 hours. We confirm the expected report date when booking.
Reading the result
Reference ranges differ between laboratories, so your report lists the laboratory’s own range beside each value. A result outside the range does not always mean illness; ask your doctor to explain it.
- Centre or home collection
- NABL-accredited Redcliffe Labs collection centre
- How collection works →