Watch Dr Matthew Silsby accept the research grant award and hear a bit about the project.
Project Summary:
Vitamin B6 is commonly found in supplements such as multivitamins, migraine products, nerve health products, and energy drinks. It is often present in amounts that exceed the recommended daily intake, leading to a buildup of B6 in the body. This can result in B6 toxicity, where high levels of the vitamin interfere with normal nerve function, particularly affecting sensory nerves. Symptoms may include tingling, numbness, burning pain, and in more severe cases poor balance. Because of its widespread inclusion in supplements, B6 toxicity is an increasingly common problem.
Although B6 toxicity has been recognized for decades, exactly how B6 affects the nerves remains unclear. It is suspected that B6 disrupts the usual neurotransmitters responsible for preventing nerve overactivity. This nerve hyperexcitability could explain the types of sensory symptoms patients experience. The current treatment for B6 toxicity is to discontinue supplements while the body naturally eliminates the excess vitamin, a process that can take many months. During this time, managing symptoms can be challenging.
Nerve hyperexcitability testing is an established technique that directly measures the excitability of nerves by applying small electric pulses to the wrist and ankle. Interestingly, this technique has not previously been used in those with B6 toxicity. This project will comprehensively assess nerve function, including nerve hyperexcitability testing, in patients with B6 toxicity, to assess the theory of over-excitation of nerves. If confirmed, this could lead to better targeted treatments aimed at stabilising overactive nerves, potentially improving symptom management while waiting for B6 to be eliminated naturally.