Is there a magnesium supplement that does not contain B6?

December 8, 2025 •

3 min read

According to a study published in the journal Nutrients, a significant portion of the population does not meet the recommended daily intake of magnesium through diet alone, prompting many to turn to supplements. While many magnesium supplements are combined with vitamin B6 to aid absorption, a growing number of individuals are seeking B6-free options due to concerns about potential side effects from excessive intake.

Quick Summary

This guide details the availability of magnesium supplements formulated without added vitamin B6, discusses the potential risks of B6 toxicity, and highlights product options for those with specific sensitivities or health concerns.

Key Points

B6 is Often Avoided: Many individuals seek magnesium supplements without B6 due to concerns over potential toxicity from excessive intake, which can lead to nerve damage.
Neuropathy Risk: Long-term, high doses of vitamin B6 can cause peripheral neuropathy, a condition causing numbness, burning, and tingling in the hands and feet.
Magnesium Forms Vary: Different forms of magnesium, such as glycinate and citrate, offer distinct benefits for relaxation or digestion, respectively, and are available without added B6.
Reputable Brands Exist: Numerous brands like Thorne, Pure Encapsulations, Nature's Way, and NOW offer pure, high-quality magnesium supplements without added B6.
Prioritize Label Reading: Always check the ingredient list to ensure no pyridoxine forms are present and to confirm the specific type of magnesium used.
Consult a Doctor: It is best to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially for sensitive individuals or those on other medications.

Why Find a Magnesium Supplement Without B6?

For many years, combining magnesium with vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) in supplements was considered standard practice to enhance absorption and bioavailability. However, in recent times, a better understanding of vitamin B6's toxicity profile has led some individuals and supplement manufacturers to opt for B6-free formulations. Excessive, long-term intake of vitamin B6, often from combined supplements, can lead to peripheral neuropathy, a condition causing nerve damage that manifests as tingling, burning, or numbness in the extremities.

This is particularly relevant for sensitive individuals or those already taking a separate B-complex vitamin. By choosing a supplement that isolates magnesium, users gain better control over their intake of individual nutrients and can mitigate the risk of developing B6 toxicity. Leading supplement brands now offer pure magnesium products to meet this demand, prioritizing simplicity and safety.

Popular Magnesium Supplements Without Added B6

For those seeking a pure magnesium supplement without added B6, several reputable options are available. The best choice often depends on the desired form of magnesium, as different types offer distinct benefits and absorption rates. For example, magnesium glycinate is well-known for its gentle effect on the stomach and calming properties, making it suitable for muscle relaxation and sleep support. Magnesium citrate is another highly bioavailable form, often used to promote regularity due to its mild laxative effect. Below is a list of some well-regarded B6-free products:

Thorne Magnesium Bisglycinate Powder: Uses a highly absorbable form of magnesium and is naturally sweetened, making it easy to mix into beverages.
Pure Encapsulations Magnesium (Glycinate): A hypoallergenic formula made with high-quality vegan ingredients, prioritizing purity and efficacy.
Nature's Way Magnesium Complex: Offers a potent dose of two forms of magnesium to support muscle relaxation and function without adding unnecessary vitamins.
TUMME Magnesium+: This Australian-based brand explicitly formulates its products without B6 to focus on digestive and overall health without the risk of excessive B6 intake.
NOW Magnesium Glycinate: This option is known for its highly absorbable and stomach-friendly form of magnesium, suitable for sensitive individuals.

Comparison Table: B6-Free Magnesium Supplements


Feature	Thorne Magnesium Bisglycinate	Pure Encapsulations Magnesium (Glycinate)	Nature's Way Magnesium Complex	NOW Magnesium Glycinate
Magnesium Form	Bisglycinate	Glycinate	Citrate & Oxide	Glycinate
B6-Free	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Format	Powder	Capsules	Capsules	Capsules / Tablets
Absorption	Superior (due to bisglycinate form)	High	Varies by type (Citrate is higher than Oxide)	High
Side Effects	Minimized laxative effect	Hypoallergenic, well-tolerated	Can cause mild digestive upset for some	Gentle on stomach
Best for...	Relaxation, sleep, muscle function	Sensitive individuals, purity	Muscle and nerve support	Relaxation, minimal GI distress

How to Choose the Right B6-Free Magnesium Supplement

Selecting the best supplement for your needs involves considering the specific form of magnesium, the dosage, and your overall health profile. Start by identifying your primary health goal. For relaxation and improved sleep, magnesium glycinate is a common and effective choice. For digestive support and regularity, magnesium citrate can be beneficial. Individuals with specific dietary restrictions, such as vegans, should also check for certification marks on product labels.

Always read the ingredient label carefully to ensure no forms of pyridoxine are included. The supplement market is regulated, but a proactive approach helps avoid any unwanted additives. Moreover, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for those with existing health conditions or who are taking other medications. This ensures the supplement is safe and appropriate for your individual needs. By being informed, you can confidently choose a B6-free magnesium supplement that supports your health goals safely.

Conclusion

In conclusion, numerous high-quality magnesium supplements are available on the market that do not contain B6, catering to individuals with sensitivities or those seeking to avoid potential peripheral neuropathy from excess pyridoxine. By carefully examining product labels and understanding the benefits of different magnesium forms like glycinate and citrate, consumers can make informed decisions. Options from brands like Thorne, Pure Encapsulations, Nature's Way, and NOW provide effective solutions for supporting muscle function, relaxation, and overall well-being. Ultimately, consulting a healthcare provider is the best way to ensure your chosen supplement aligns with your specific health requirements.

Here is some additional information on the role of magnesium in pain management from the NCBI.

Frequently Asked Questions

Vitamin B6 is often added to magnesium supplements because it is believed to help with the absorption and cellular uptake of magnesium. However, this combination is not necessary for effective supplementation and can pose a risk of toxicity with long-term use.

Taking excessive amounts of vitamin B6 over a prolonged period can cause peripheral neuropathy, which is nerve damage leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and burning sensations, typically in the hands and feet.

Yes, it is entirely possible to get adequate magnesium from supplements without B6. High-quality, bioavailable forms like magnesium glycinate and citrate are effective on their own.

When checking labels, you should look for names such as pyridoxine hydrochloride, pyridoxine 5-phosphate, and pyridoxal 5-phosphate monohydrate, all of which are forms of vitamin B6.

Yes, many magnesium glycinate supplements, particularly from brands focused on purity like Thorne, Pure Encapsulations, and NOW, are formulated without added B6. Magnesium glycinate is a chelated form known for being gentle on the stomach.

Individuals who should consider B6-free options include those already taking a multivitamin with B6, people with known sensitivities, and anyone seeking to minimize their risk of potential B6 toxicity over time.

Yes, taking B6 and magnesium separately is an excellent way to have better control over your intake of each nutrient. This approach allows you to adjust dosages based on your specific health needs and reduce the risk of exceeding safe B6 levels.