Vitamin B6 is found in three forms - pyridoxine hydrochloride, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine - all of which must be converted into activated pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P) by the liver. P-5-P is the form of vitamin B6 the body ultimately uses.
P-5-P is necessary for the production of GABA, the conversion of 5-HTP to serotonin, and also in the decarboxylation of L-DOPA to dopamine. It is also needed for glucose production as well as amino acid and lipid metabolism.
Who should consider P-5-P?
P-5-P is recommended for people whose ability to convert vitamin B6 into this active coenzyme is impaired, as seen with the elderly, autistic children, and those with celiac disease or impaired liver function. It may also be useful for people who need higher doses and maximum absorption of vitamin B6, such as:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Peripheral neuropathies
PMS
Edema
Water retention
Morning sickness
High homocysteine levels ? (along with Homocysteine Supreme?)
Gestational and Type 2 Diabetes