Is there another name for B6 vitamins?

December 7, 2025 •

2 min read

The term "Vitamin B6" isn't a single substance but a collective name for six related compounds, most notably pyridoxine. While many people are familiar with the name pyridoxine, several other scientific names and variations exist for B6 vitamins, each with its unique role and function in the body.

Quick Summary

Vitamin B6 is a group of six related compounds known as vitamers, including pyridoxine and the active coenzyme form, pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P5P). This article explores these various names, their differences, and significance in health and nutrition.

Key Points

Pyridoxine: This is the most common form of vitamin B6 in supplements.
Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P): The active coenzyme form of vitamin B6 used by the body.
Vitamers: Vitamin B6 is a collective term for a group of six related compounds.
Function in Metabolism: As P5P, B6 plays a vital role in over 100 enzymatic reactions, especially amino acid metabolism.
Neurological Health: Vitamin B6 is essential for producing key neurotransmitters.
Supplementation Consideration: Some individuals may benefit from P5P supplements due to conversion issues.

Understanding the Various Forms of Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin composed of a group of six related compounds called vitamers. The most common form in supplements is pyridoxine, while the body uses pyridoxal-5-phosphate (PLP or P5P) as an active coenzyme.

The Six Main Vitamers of Vitamin B6

The different forms of B6 include Pyridoxine, Pyridoxal, Pyridoxamine, Pyridoxine 5'-phosphate, Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP/P5P), and Pyridoxamine 5'-phosphate. Pyridoxine is commonly found in supplements, while PLP/P5P is the main active coenzyme form involved in numerous enzyme reactions. The different forms of Vitamin B6 can be found on {Link: DrugBank Online https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00165}.

Comparison: Pyridoxine vs. Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P)

The table below outlines key differences between Pyridoxine and Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P):


Feature	Pyridoxine	Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P)
Common Use	Most common in supplements.	Active form in some supplements.
Conversion Required?	Yes, converted to PLP.	No, already active.
Bioavailability	Well-absorbed, variable conversion.	May be preferred if conversion is an issue.
High-Dose Side Effects	Can cause sensory neuropathy.	High-dose risks exist.

The Importance of Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (PLP)

PLP functions as a coenzyme in many processes, including metabolism and the synthesis of neurotransmitters. It is also involved in hemoglobin formation and regulating homocysteine levels.

What About the Other Names?

Other terms include Pyridoxine HCl (supplemental form), P5P (abbreviation), and Pyridoxol.

In summary, while pyridoxine is common in supplements, B6 is a group of compounds, with P5P being the body's active form. Dietary sources and standard supplements provide pyridoxine, which is usually converted to P5P. Specific health needs might warrant discussing P5P supplementation with a healthcare provider.

Sources of Vitamin B6

Foods rich in B6 include fish, beef, chickpeas, potatoes, bananas, and fortified cereals. The full list of Vitamin B6 sources can be found on {Link: DrugBank Online https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00165}.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common name for vitamin B6 in supplements is pyridoxine, specifically as pyridoxine hydrochloride (pyridoxine HCl).

Pyridoxine is a form of vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 is a collective name for a group of six related compounds called vitamers.

P5P stands for pyridoxal-5-phosphate, the biologically active coenzyme form of vitamin B6 that the body uses directly.

Individuals with difficulties converting pyridoxine to P5P may find P5P supplements more effective.

Yes, B6 is found in various forms in foods, with pyridoxine in plants and PLP and PMP primarily in animal products.

Yes, chronic high doses of B6 from supplements can cause sensory neuropathy (nerve damage).

The active form of vitamin B6 is pyridoxal-5-phosphate (PLP), which serves as a coenzyme in over 100 enzymatic reactions.