Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Based on 8 of 9 ingredients. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Essential B Complex Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by BioSource Labs

Liquid Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Essential B Complex is a dietary supplement by BioSource Labs with 9 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for morning sickness in pregnancy, premenstrual syndrome (pms), preventing or treating b6 deficiency.Based on those ingredients, 779 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Vitamin B3, L-Arginine Base, Vitamin B6. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Essential B Complex by BioSource Labs

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Partial disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Partial

Most active ingredients list an amount, but at least one is hidden in a blend or missing.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 5 of its 9 active ingredients.
  • “Cell Support Blend” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (76 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Essential B Complex by BioSource Labs contains 9 active ingredients: vitamins B6, B12, B3 (niacin), and B2 (riboflavin); amino acids L-carnitine and L-arginine; the amino acid derivative beta-alanine; potassium; and trimethylglycine. These B vitamins help your body convert food into energy and support nervous system and red blood cell health.

L-carnitine and L-arginine are amino acids your body uses for muscle function and blood vessel health, while potassium is a mineral critical for nerve and heart rhythm. The product is formulated as a liquid with inactive ingredients including water, glycerin, natural flavors, citrus and monk fruit extracts, and thickening agents.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: support energy and cellular function.
  • We looked for evidence on: Athletic performance, Fatigue, Exercise-induced muscle damage, Exercise-induced muscle soreness, Cognitive function, B vitamin deficiency — and 2 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Beta-alanine is rated "Possibly Effective" for Athletic performance (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Niacin is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Athletic performance.
  • Also on file: Vitamin B12 is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Cognitive function, Fatigue.

The B vitamins in this product have strong evidence in our data. Vitamin B6 is effective for sideroblastic anemia and B6 deficiency itself, likely effective for elevated homocysteine, and possibly effective for pregnancy-related nausea.

Vitamin B12 is effective for B12 deficiency and related conditions. Vitamin B3 is likely effective for pellagra and possibly effective for certain lipid disorders.

Vitamin B2 has no effectiveness ratings in our data. For the other active ingredients, our data does not establish effectiveness ratings for L-carnitine's specific uses, L-arginine's clinical uses, beta-alanine's uses beyond athletic performance (where it is possibly effective), potassium supplementation beyond deficiency prevention, or trimethylglycine.

Talk with your pharmacist about whether this product fits your individual health goals.

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 8 of the 8 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 8 of 8.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 8 of 8.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Vitamin B6 is well tolerated at normal amounts, but high doses over time can damage nerves (sensory neuropathy), especially at very high intakes. Vitamin B12 is very safe — excess is removed in urine — and is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Vitamin B3 is safe at food amounts, but high-dose supplements can cause flushing, liver problems, and elevated blood sugar; it should be avoided at high doses in pregnancy unless prescribed. Vitamin B2 is very safe and needed during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Beta-alanine is generally well tolerated but commonly causes harmless tingling skin sensations; it should be avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. L-carnitine may cause stomach upset and a fishy body odor at high doses and has insufficient safety data in pregnancy; it is possibly safe while breastfeeding.

L-arginine can lower blood pressure and should be used only under medical supervision. Potassium from food is safe, but supplements carry risk of dangerously high blood levels, especially in kidney disease, and should be used only under medical guidance.

We do not have pregnancy or breastfeeding data for trimethylglycine.

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 7 of the 8 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Potassium, L-arginine, Niacin, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6, among others.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; diabetes medications; Parkinson's medications.
  • For scale: 780 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking this product, check with your pharmacist if you take blood pressure medications (antihypertensives) — both vitamin B6 and L-arginine may lower blood pressure further. If you take blood thinners like warfarin, diabetes medications, ACE inhibitors or ARBs, potassium-sparing diuretics, or statin cholesterol drugs, this product requires screening.

Gout medications (allopurinol, probenecid), thyroid hormone, tetracycline antibiotics, and metformin also have documented interactions with ingredients here. No interactions are documented in our data for beta-alanine or trimethylglycine.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glancePartially disclosed formula with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

This product is a comprehensive B-complex with added amino acids and minerals. It's worth considering if you have a B vitamin deficiency or are looking for B-vitamin support, but the multiple ingredients — especially L-arginine, potassium, and vitamin B3 at higher doses — make it essential to run your medications through the checker below first.

If you take any blood pressure, diabetes, blood-thinning, or thyroid medications, or potassium-affecting drugs, talk with your pharmacist before starting.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 8 of 9 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Feb 23, 2025.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Essential B Complex, straight from the product label.

Brand BioSource Labs
Barcode (UPC) X003Z6THC9
Net contents 2 Fluid Ounce(s); 60 mL
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Feb 23, 2025
DSLD ID 323067
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Liquid
Dietary claims / uses Nutrient, All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years)
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Essential B Complex by BioSource Labs, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 mL
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 mL
Servings per container
60
UPC/BARCODE
X003Z6THC9
IngredientAmount% DV
Vitamin B62.6 mg152%
Beta-Alanine0 NP--
Vitamin B121500 mcg62500%
Vitamin B32.1 mg13%
L-Carnitine Base0 NP--
Vitamin B21.45 mg110%
L-Arginine Base0 NP--
Potassium3 mg1%
Cell Support Blend76 mg--
Trimethylglycine0 NP--

Other ingredients: Water, Deionized, Glycerin, Sodium Gluconate, Natural Flavors, Citrus Extract, Citric Acid, Glucomannan, Stevia Extract, Monk Fruit Extract

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formula

Essential B Complex delivers a potent bioavailable dose of methyl B12 along with other important B vitamins and cell boosting ingredients to help support key bodily functions.

Precautions

Warning: Consult a physician before use. Do not use if tamper resistant seal is damaged or broken. If experiencing nausea, dizziness, vomiting, or severe headaches, discontinue use and consult your physician.

Storage

Refrigerate after opening for extended storage time

General Statements

To reorder call 1-866-537-2214 or visit www.biosourcelabs.com

Formulation

Advanced formulation for sustained daily energy Optimized for max absorption & cellular performance

Seals/Symbols

Made in USA cGMP Quality Guarantee

FDA Statement of Identity

Liquid Dietary Supplement

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Suggested use: Measure and take 1 mL (1 full dropper) by mouth once per day.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

See for yourself

Essential B Complex by BioSource Labs label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Essential B Complex by BioSource Labs

These are the 9 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 mL Dosage formLiquid Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Vitamin B6

Interacts with
210 drugs
2.6 mg per serving Form: Pyridoxine Hydrochloride

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is an essential water-soluble vitamin that your body needs for metabolism, brain function, and making red blood cells. It is b...

Vitamin B6 monograph & interactions

Vitamin B12

Interacts with
20 drugs
1500 mcg per serving Form: Methylcobalamin

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an essential nutrient your body needs to make red blood cells, keep nerves healthy, and support DNA. Supplements are very h...

Vitamin B12 monograph & interactions

Vitamin B3

Interacts with
727 drugs
2.1 mg per serving Form: Niacinamide

Niacin (vitamin B3) is an essential nutrient your body needs for energy and metabolism, and deficiency is uncommon in most developed countries. Prescr...

Vitamin B3 monograph & interactions

Vitamin B2

Interacts with
20 drugs
1.45 mg per serving Form: Riboflavin, Riboflavin 5-Phosphate

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is an essential nutrient your body needs to turn food into energy and to keep skin, eyes, and nerves healthy. It is generally...

Vitamin B2 monograph & interactions

Potassium

Interacts with
62 drugs
3 mg per serving Form: Potassium Pidolate

Potassium is an essential mineral your body needs for nerve signals, muscle function, and a steady heartbeat, and most people get enough from a balanc...

Potassium monograph & interactions

Cell Support Blend

76 mg per serving

Other (inactive) ingredients: Water, Deionized, Glycerin, Sodium Gluconate, Natural Flavors, Citrus Extract, Citric Acid, Glucomannan, Stevia Extract, Monk Fruit Extract. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Essential B Complex by BioSource Labs Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Essential B Complex?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
779Drugs
774 Moderate 5 Minor

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Essential B Complex with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Vitamin B315 drug types · 727 drugs

Alcohol (Ethanol)

Concomitant use of alcohol and niacin might increase the risk of flushing and hepatotoxicity.
Alcohol can exacerbate the flushing and pruritus associated with niacin. Large doses of niacin might also exacerbate liver dysfunction associated with chronic alcohol use. A case report describes delirium and lactic acidosis in a patient taking niacin 3 grams daily who ingested 1 liter of wine. Advise patients to avoid large amounts of alcohol while taking niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Allopurinol (Zyloprim)

Theoretically, niacin might antagonize the therapeutic effects of uricosurics such as allopurinol.
Large doses of niacin can reduce urinary excretion of uric acid, potentially resulting in hyperuricemia. Doses of uricosurics such as allopurinol might need to be increased to maintain control of gout in patients who start taking niacin. People who have frequent attacks of gout despite uricosuric therapy should avoid niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, niacin may have additive effects when used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
Several cases of clotting factor synthesis deficiency and coagulopathy have been reported in patients taking sustained-release niacin. Also, thrombocytopenia has been reported in patients treated with niacin or niacin plus lovastatin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Niacin can increase blood glucose levels and may diminish the effects of antidiabetes drugs.
Niacin impairs glucose tolerance in a dose-dependent manner, probably by causing or aggravating insulin resistance and increasing hepatic production of glucose. In diabetes patients, niacin 4.5 grams daily for 5 weeks can increase plasma glucose by an average of 16% and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) by 21%. However, lower doses of 1.5 grams daily or less appear to have minimal effects on blood glucose. In some patients, glucose levels increase when niacin is started, but then return to baseline when a stable dose is reached. Up to 35% of patients with diabetes may need adjustments in hypoglycemic therapy when niacin is added.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, niacin may increase the risk of hypotension when used with antihypertensive drugs.
The vasodilating effects of niacin can cause hypotension. Furthermore, some clinical evidence suggests that a one-hour infusion of niacin can reduce systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure in hypertensive patients. This effect is not observed in normotensive patients.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Bile Acid Sequestrants

Bile acid sequestrants can bind niacin and decrease absorption. Separate administration by 4-6 hours to avoid an interaction.
In vitro studies show that colestipol (Colestid) binds about 98% of available niacin and cholestyramine (Questran) binds 10% to 30%.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Gemfibrozil (Lopid)

Theoretically, concomitant use of niacin and gemfibrozil might increase the risk of myopathy in some patients.
A case of myopathy from concomitant use of niacin and gemfibrozil has been reported. Niacin alone has also been associated with cases of myopathy. Using gemfibrozil with niacin might further increase the risk of developing myopathy.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of niacin and hepatotoxic drugs might increase the risk of hepatotoxicity.
Niacin has been associated with cases of liver toxicity, especially when used in pharmacologic doses. Sustained-release niacin preparations appear to be associated with a higher risk of hepatotoxicity than immediate-release niacin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Hmg-Coa Reductase Inhibitors ("Statins")

Theoretically, concomitant use of niacin and statins might increase the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis in some patients.
Some case reports have raised concerns that niacin might increase the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis when combined with statins. However, a significantly increased risk of myopathy has not been demonstrated in clinical trials, including those using an FDA-approved combination of lovastatin and niacin (Advicor).

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Probenecid (Benemid)

Theoretically, niacin might antagonize the therapeutic effects of uricosurics such as probenecid.
Large doses of niacin reduce urinary excretion of uric acid, potentially causing hyperuricemia. Doses of uricosurics such as probenecid might need to be increased to maintain control of gout in patients who start taking niacin. People who have frequent attacks of gout despite uricosuric therapy should avoid niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Sulfinpyrazone (Anturane)

Theoretically, niacin might antagonize the therapeutic effects of uricosurics such as sulfinpyrazone.
Large doses of niacin reduce urinary excretion of uric acid, potentially causing hyperuricemia. Doses of uricosurics such as sulfinpyrazone might need to be increased to maintain control of gout in patients who start taking niacin. People who have frequent attacks of gout despite uricosuric therapy should avoid niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence C
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, niacin might antagonize the therapeutic effects of thyroid hormones.
Clinical research and case reports suggests that taking niacin can reduce serum levels of thyroxine-binding globulin by up to 25% and moderately reduce levels of thyroxine (T4). Patients taking thyroid hormone for hypothyroidism might need dose adjustments when using niacin.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Transdermal Nicotine (Nicoderm)

Theoretically, concomitant use of niacin and transdermal nicotine might increase the risk of flushing and dizziness.
Niacin and nicotine can both cause flushing and dizziness.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Warfarin (Coumadin)

There is limited evidence that niacin may increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.
In a case report, a patient on warfarin developed an elevated international normalized ratio (INR) of 3.9 after taking niacin for two weeks. The patient's INR was previously stable, ranging between 2 and 3 in recent months, and no other medication changes were identified. The elevated INR returned to therapeutic range within 4 days following the discontinuation of niacin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Aspirin

Large doses of aspirin might alter the clearance of niacin.
Aspirin is often used with niacin to reduce niacin-induced flushing. Doses of 80-975 mg aspirin have been used, but 325 mg appears to be optimal. Aspirin also seems to reduce the clearance of niacin by competing for glycine conjugation. Taking aspirin 1 gram seems to reduce niacin clearance by 45%. This is probably a dose-related effect and not clinically significant with the more common aspirin dose of 325 mg.

Likelihood Likely Evidence B

L-Arginine Base9 drug types · 403 drugs

Ace Inhibitors (Aceis)

Theoretically, concomitant use of L-arginine and ACE inhibitors may increase the risk for hypotension and hyperkalemia.
Combining L-arginine with some antihypertensive drugs, especially ACE inhibitors, seems to have additive vasodilating and blood pressure-lowering effects. Furthermore, ACE inhibitors can increase potassium levels. Use of L-arginine has been associated with hyperkalemia in some patients. Theoretically, concomitant use of ACE inhibitors with L-arginine may increases the risk of hyperkalemia.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (Arbs)

Theoretically, concomitant use of L-arginine and ARBs may increase the risk of hypotension and hyperkalemia.
L-arginine increases nitric oxide, which causes vasodilation. Combining L-arginine with ARBs seems to increase L-arginine-induced vasodilation. Furthermore, ARBs can increase potassium levels. Use of L-arginine has been associated with hyperkalemia in some patients. Theoretically, concomitant use of ARBs with L-arginine may increases the risk of hyperkalemia.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of L-arginine with anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs might have additive effects and increase the risk of bleeding.
Preliminary research suggests that L-arginine infusions reduce platelet aggregation in humans. The clinical significance of this effect is unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of L-arginine might have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs.
Preliminary clinical research shows that L-arginine decreases blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, concomitant use of L-arginine and antihypertensive drugs may increase the risk of hypotension.
L-arginine increases nitric oxide, which causes vasodilation. Clinical evidence shows that L-arginine can reduce blood pressure in some individuals with hypertension. Furthermore, combining L-arginine with some antihypertensive drugs seems to have additive vasodilating and blood pressure-lowering effects.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Isoproterenol (Isuprel)

Theoretically, concurrent use of isoproterenol and L-arginine might result in additive effects and hypotension.
Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that L-arginine enhances isoproterenol-induced vasodilation in patients with essential hypertension or a family history of essential hypertension.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Theoretically concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics with L-arginine may increases the risk of hyperkalemia.
Potassium-sparing diuretics can increase potassium levels. Use of L-arginine has been associated with hyperkalemia in some patients.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Sildenafil (Viagra)

Theoretically, concurrent use of sildenafil and L-arginine might increase the risk for hypotension.
In vivo, concurrent use of L-arginine and sildenafil has resulted in increased vasodilation. Theoretically, concurrent use might have additive vasodilatory and hypotensive effects. However, in studies evaluating the combined use of L-arginine and sildenafil for erectile dysfunction, hypotension was not reported.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Testosterone

Theoretically, concomitant use of L-arginine and testosterone might have additive effects.
In clinical research, L-arginine increases the level of testosterone in male patients with erectile dysfunction. The clinical significance of this finding is unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Vitamin B65 drug types · 210 drugs

Amiodarone (Cordarone)

Theoretically, vitamin B6 might increase the photosensitivity caused by amiodarone.
Despite initial case reports suggesting that pyridoxine may have a protective effect against amiodarone-induced photosensitivity, preliminary clinical research suggests that pyridoxine may actually exacerbate this adverse effect.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, vitamin B6 may have additive effects when used with antihypertensive drugs.
Research in hypertensive rats shows that vitamin B6 can decrease systolic blood pressure. Similarly, clinical research in patients with hypertension shows that taking high doses of vitamin B6 may reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure, possibly by reducing plasma levels of epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Phenobarbital (Luminal)

High doses of vitamin B6 may reduce the levels and clinical effects of phenobarbital.
Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that vitamin B6 200 mg daily can reduce plasma levels of phenobarbital, possibly by increasing metabolism. It is not known whether lower doses have any effect. Advise people taking phenobarbital to avoid high doses of vitamin B6.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenytoin (Dilantin)

High doses of vitamin B6 may reduce the levels and clinical effects of phenytoin.
Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that vitamin B6 200 mg daily can reduce plasma levels of phenytoin, possibly by increasing metabolism. It is not known whether lower doses have any effect. Advise people taking phenytoin to avoid high doses of vitamin B6.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Levodopa

Vitamin B6 may increase the metabolism of levodopa when taken alone, but not when taken in conjunction with carbidopa.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) enhances the metabolism of levodopa, reducing its clinical effects. However, this interaction does not occur when carbidopa is used concurrently with levodopa (Sinemet). Therefore, it is not likely to be a problem in most people.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence D

Potassium3 drug types · 62 drugs

Ace Inhibitors (Aceis)

Using ACEIs with high doses of potassium increases the risk of hyperkalemia.
ACEIs block the actions of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and reduce potassium excretion. Concomitant use of these drugs with potassium supplements increases the risk of hyperkalemia. However, concomitant use of these drugs with moderate dietary potassium intake (about 3775-5200 mg daily) does not increase serum potassium levels.

Likelihood Likely Evidence C
Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (Arbs)

Using ARBs with high doses of potassium increases the risk of hyperkalemia.
ARBs block the actions of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and reduce potassium excretion. Concomitant use of these drugs with potassium supplements increases the risk of hyperkalemia. However, concomitant use of these drugs with moderate dietary potassium intake (about 3775-5200 mg daily) does not increase serum potassium levels.

Likelihood Likely Evidence C
Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Concomitant use increases the risk of hyperkalemia.
Using potassium-sparing diuretics with potassium supplements increases the risk of hyperkalemia.

Likelihood Likely Evidence C

Vitamin B121 drug type · 20 drugs

Metformin (Glucophage)

Metformin, a common medication used to manage type 2 diabetes, has been associated with lower vitamin B12 levels in some individuals. Prolonged use of metformin can interfere with the absorption of B12 in the digestive system, potentially leading to a deficiency in this essential vitamin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence A

Vitamin B21 drug type · 20 drugs

Tetracycline Antibiotics

Theoretically, taking riboflavin with tetracycline antibiotics may decrease the potency of these antibiotics.
In vitro research suggests that riboflavin may inhibit the potency of tetracycline antibiotics. It is not clear if this effect is clinically significant, as this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

L-Carnitine Base3 drug types · 19 drugs

Acenocoumarol (Sintrom)

Theoretically, L-carnitine might increase the anticoagulant effects of acenocoumarol.
L-carnitine might enhance the anticoagulant effects of acenocoumarol, an oral anticoagulant similar to warfarin, but shorter-acting. There are at least two case reports of INR elevation with concomitant use. In one case, a 33-year-old male with a previously stable INR had an elevated INR of 4.65 after L-carnitine was started and continued for 10 weeks. INR normalized after discontinuation of the L-carnitine-containing product.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, L-carnitine might decrease the effectiveness of thyroid hormone replacement.
L-carnitine appears to act as a peripheral thyroid hormone antagonist by inhibiting entry of thyroid hormone into the nucleus of cells. Taking L-carnitine also seems to diminish some of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Theoretically, L-carnitine might increase the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.
L-carnitine might increase the anticoagulant effects of acenocoumarol, a shorter-acting oral anticoagulant similar to warfarin. There is not enough information to know whether this interaction occurs with L-carnitine and warfarin.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Essential B Complex, from the product label.

BioSource Labs

See all BioSource Labs products
Name
BioSource Labs LLC
Street Address
5513 W 11000 N, #156
City
Highland
State
UT
ZipCode
84003
Phone Number
1-866-537-2214
Web Address
www.biosourcelabs.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Essential B Complex by BioSource Labs: Common Questions

Does Essential B Complex by BioSource Labs interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Essential B Complex has a known interaction with 779 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Essential B Complex contains 9 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take this if I'm pregnant?
It depends on the ingredient. The B vitamins B12, B3, and B2 are considered likely safe or needed during pregnancy at normal amounts, though high-dose B3 should be avoided unless prescribed. Vitamin B6 is rated likely safe but also possibly unsafe — talk with your doctor or pharmacist. Beta-alanine, L-arginine, and L-carnitine have insufficient safety data in pregnancy and should be avoided unless your doctor advises otherwise. Potassium and trimethylglycine safety data in pregnancy isn't fully established; ask your provider before using.
Is this safe while breastfeeding?
The B vitamins B12, B3, and B2 are safe at recommended amounts while breastfeeding. Vitamin B6 is likely safe, and L-carnitine is possibly safe. Beta-alanine and L-arginine should be avoided due to insufficient safety data. Potassium safety while breastfeeding isn't well studied; check with your doctor. We have no breastfeeding data for trimethylglycine.
What's the tingling sensation some people mention?
That's most likely from beta-alanine, which commonly causes a harmless feeling of pins and needles (paresthesia) along with skin flushing, usually starting on the scalp within 20 minutes and lasting about an hour. This is dose-dependent — milder at lower doses. It's not dangerous, but if it bothers you, mention it to your pharmacist.
Will my urine turn a weird color?
Yes — vitamin B2 (riboflavin) can cause bright yellow urine, especially at higher doses. This is harmless and just a sign that excess B2 is being removed in your urine, which is normal and safe.
How much potassium is in this, and is it safe?
The product facts don't specify the potassium amount per serving. Because potassium supplements carry a real risk of dangerously high blood levels — especially if you have kidney disease — and because they interact with common blood pressure and diuretic medications, ask your pharmacist for the dose and whether it's appropriate for you before starting.
What's the fishy smell I've heard about?
That can come from L-carnitine at higher doses — your body releases it through sweat and urine as a harmless but noticeable fish-like odor. If you get this effect, let your pharmacist know; it may fade with time or if you lower your dose.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Essential B Complex label
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The Full Monographs Behind Essential B Complex’s Ingredients

Every ingredient we hold a full HelloPharmacist monograph for — uses, evidence, safety, and the complete interaction list.

Herb & supplement monograph

Vitamin B6

Interacts with 210 drugs

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is an essential water-soluble vitamin that your body needs for metabolism, brain function, and making red blood cells. It is best known for helping with pregnancy-rel...

Read the full Vitamin B6 monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Vitamin B12

Interacts with 20 drugs

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an essential nutrient your body needs to make red blood cells, keep nerves healthy, and support DNA. Supplements are very helpful for people who are deficient — su...

Read the full Vitamin B12 monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Niacin

Interacts with 727 drugs

Niacin (vitamin B3) is an essential nutrient your body needs for energy and metabolism, and deficiency is uncommon in most developed countries. Prescription-strength niacin has been used to...

Read the full Niacin monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Riboflavin

Interacts with 20 drugs

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is an essential nutrient your body needs to turn food into energy and to keep skin, eyes, and nerves healthy. It is generally very safe at typical doses, and the stro...

Read the full Riboflavin monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Potassium

Interacts with 62 drugs

Potassium is an essential mineral your body needs for nerve signals, muscle function, and a steady heartbeat, and most people get enough from a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. P...

Read the full Potassium monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

Beta-alanine

Beta-alanine is an amino acid taken mostly by athletes to raise muscle carnosine, which may help buffer acid and reduce fatigue during short, high-intensity exercise. The evidence is moderat...

Read the full Beta-alanine monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

L-carnitine

Interacts with 19 drugs

L-carnitine is a compound your body makes naturally and also gets from foods like meat. It helps cells turn fat into energy, and supplements are most clearly useful for people with a true ca...

Read the full L-carnitine monograph →
Herb & supplement monograph

L-arginine

Interacts with 403 drugs

L-arginine is an amino acid that the body uses to make nitric oxide, a substance that helps blood vessels relax and widen. It is popularly used for blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, and...

Read the full L-arginine monograph →
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Essential B Complex's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 265 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Vitamin B6 32 references
  1. Hansten PD, Horn JR. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Vancouver, WA: Applied Therapeutics Inc., 1997 and updates.
  2. Yates AA, Schlicker SA, Suitor CW. Dietary reference intakes: The new basis for recommendations for calcium and related nutrients, B vitamins, and choline. J Am Diet Assoc 1998;98:699-706. PubMed
  3. Geerling BJ, Dagnelie PC, Badart-Smook A, et al. Diet as a risk factor for the development of ulcerative colitis. Am J Gastroenterol 2000;95:1008-13. PubMed
  4. South M. Neonatal seizures after pyridoxine use -- reply. Lancet 1999;354:2083. PubMed
  5. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline (2000). Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000. Available at: http://b
  6. Baxter P, Aicardi J. Neonatal seizures after pyridoxine use. Lancet 1999;354:2082-3. PubMed
  7. Bendich A, Cohen M. Vitamin B6 safety issues. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1990;585:321-30.
  8. Schaumburg H, Kaplan J, Windebank A. Sensory neuropathy from pyridoxine abuse. A new megavitamin syndrome. N Engl J Med 1983;309:445-8. PubMed
  9. Gordon N. Pyridoxine dependency: an update. Dev Med Child Neurol 1997;39:63-5. PubMed
  10. Lewis PJ. Pain in the hand and wrist. Pyridoxine supplements may help patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. BMJ 1995;310:1534. PubMed
  11. Kaufman G. Pyridoxine against amiodarone-induced photosensitivity (letter). Lancet 1984;1:51-2. PubMed
  12. Mulrow JP, Mulrow CD, McKenna WJ. Pyridoxine and amiodarone-induced photosensitivity. Ann Intern Med 1985;103:68-9. PubMed
  13. Kawada A, Kashima A, Shiraishi H, et al. Pyridoxine-induced photosensitivity and hypophosphatasia. Dermatology 2000;201:356-60.. PubMed
  14. Vasile A, Goldberg R, Kornberg B. Pyridoxine toxicity: report of a case. J Am Osteopath Assoc 1984;83:790-1. DOI
  15. Hansson O, Sillanpaa M. Pyridoxine and serum concentration of phenytoin and phenobarbitone. Lancet 1976;1:256. DOI
  16. Jansen T, Romiti R, Kreuter A, Altmeyer P. Rosacea fulminans triggered by high-dose vitamins B6 and B12. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2001;15:484-5..
  17. Chittumma P, Kaewkiattikun K, Wiriyasiriwach B. Comparison of the effectiveness of ginger and vitamin B6 for treatment of nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy: a randomized double-blind controlled trial. J Med Assoc Thai 2007;90:15-20.
  18. Hatzitolios, A., Iliadis, F., Katsiki, N., and Baltatzi, M. Is the anti-hypertensive effect of dietary supplements via aldehydes reduction evidence based? A systematic review. Clin Exp.Hypertens. 2008;30(7):628-639. PubMed
  19. Vasdev, S., Ford, C. A., Parai, S., Longerich, L., and Gadag, V. Dietary vitamin B6 supplementation attenuates hypertension in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Mol.Cell Biochem. 1999;200(1-2):155-162.
  20. de, Vogel S., Dindore, V., van, Engeland M., Goldbohm, R. A., van den Brandt, P. A., and Weijenberg, M. P. Dietary folate, methionine, riboflavin, and vitamin B-6 and risk of sporadic colorectal cancer. J Nutr 2008;138(12):2372-2378. PubMed
  21. Hagen, I., Nesheim, B. I., and Tuntland, T. No effect of vitamin B-6 against premenstrual tension. A controlled clinical study. Acta Obstet.Gynecol.Scand. 1985;64(8):667-670. PubMed
  22. Aybak, M., Sermet, A., Ayyildiz, M. O., and Karakilcik, A. Z. Effect of oral pyridoxine hydrochloride supplementation on arterial blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension. Arzneimittelforschung. 1995;45(12):1271-1273.
  23. Lal, K. J., Dakshinamurti, K., and Thliveris, J. The effect of vitamin B6 on the systolic blood pressure of rats in various animal models of hypertension. J Hypertens. 1996;14(3):355-363. PubMed
  24. Lauritzen CH, Reuter HD, Repges R, Bohnert K, and Schmidt U. Treatment of premenstrual tension syndrome with Vitex agnus castus. Controlled, double-blind study versus pyridoxine. Phytomed 1997;4(3):183-189. PubMed
  25. Fonseca VA, Lavery LA, Thethi TK, et al. Metanx in type 2 diabetes with peripheral neuropathy: A randomized trial. Am J Med 2013;126(2):141-9. PubMed
  26. Hankey GJ, Eikelboom JW, Yi Q, et al. Treatment with B vitamins and incidence of cancer in patients with previous stroke or transient ischemic attack: Results of a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Stroke 2012;43(6):1572-7. PubMed
  27. Hoyer-Kuhn H, Kohbrok S, Volland R, Franklin J, Hero B, Beck BB, Hoppe B. Vitamin B6 in primary hyperoxaluria I: first prospective trial after 40 years of practice. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2014 Mar;9(3):468-77. PubMed
  28. Mahmoud A, Tabassum S, Al Enazi S, et al. Amelioration of levetiracetam-induced behavioral side effects by pyridoxine. A randomized double blind controlled study. Pediatr Neurol 2021;119:15-21. PubMed
  29. Gupta M, Gallante B, Bamberger JN, et al. Prospective randomized evaluation of idiopathic hyperoxaluria treatments. J Endourol 2021;35(12):1844-1851. PubMed
  30. Li H, Chen M, Liang S, et al. Excessive vitamin B6 during treatment is related to poor prognosis of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A U-shaped distribution suggests low dose supplement. Clin Nutr 2021;40(4):2293-2300. PubMed
  31. Tanigawa J, Nabatame S, Tominaga K, et al. High-dose pyridoxine treatment for inherited glycosylphosphatidylinositol deficiency. Brain Dev 2021;43(6):680-687. PubMed
  32. Committee on Practice Bulletins-Obstetrics. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 189: Nausea And Vomiting Of Pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 2018;131(1):e15-e30. PubMed

See these in context on the Vitamin B6 monograph →

Beta-alanine 13 references
  1. Harris RC, Tallon MJ, Dunnett M, et al. The absorption of orally supplied beta-alanine and its effect on muscle carnosine synthesis in human vastus lateralis. Amino Acids 2006;30:279-89.
  2. Hill CA, Harris RC, Kim HJ, et al. Influence of beta-alanine supplementation on skeletal muscle carnosine concentrations and high intensity cycling capacity. Amino Acids 2007;32:225-33.
  3. Bellinger PM, Minahan CL. The effect of ß-alanine supplementation on cycling time trials of different length. Eur J Sport Sci 2016;16(7):829-36.
  4. Chung W, Shaw G, Anderson ME, et al. Effect of 10 week beta-alanine supplementation on competition and training performance in elite swimmers. Nutrients 2012;4(10):1441-53. PubMed
  5. Glenn JM, Gray M, Stewart R, et al. Incremental effects of 28 days of beta-alanine supplementation on high-intensity cycling performance and blood lactate in masters female cyclists. Amino Acids 2015;47(12):2593-600. PubMed
  6. Gross M, Bieri K, Hoppeler H, Norman B, Vogt M. Beta-alanine supplementation improves jumping power and affects severe-intensity performance in professional alpine skiers. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2014;24(6):665-73. PubMed
  7. Howe ST, Bellinger PM, Driller MW, Shing CM, Fell JW. The effect of beta-alanine supplementation on isokinetic force and cycling performance in highly trained cyclists. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2013;23(6):562-70. PubMed
  8. Sweeney KM, Wright GA, Glenn Brice A, Doberstein ST. The effect of beta-alanine supplementation on power performance during repeated sprint activity. J Strength Cond Res 2010;24(1):79-87.
  9. Décombaz J, Beaumont M, Vuichoud J, Bouisset F, Stellingwerff T. Effect of slow-release ß-alanine tablets on absorption kinetics and paresthesia. Amino Acids 2012;43(1):67-76. Erratum in: Amino Acids 2013;45(4):1015.
  10. Stellingwerff T, Anwander H, Egger A, et al. Effect of two ß-alanine dosing protocols on muscle carnosine synthesis and washout. Amino Acids 2012;42(6):2461-72. PubMed
  11. da Silva RP, de Oliveira LF, Saunders B, et al. Effects of ß-alanine and sodium bicarbonate supplementation on the estimated energy system contribution during high-intensity intermittent exercise. Amino Acids. 2019;51(1):83-96. PubMed
  12. Varanoske AN, Hoffman JR, Church DD, et al. Comparison of sustained-release and rapid-release ß-alanine formulations on changes in skeletal muscle carnosine and histidine content and isometric performance following a muscle-damaging protocol. Amino Acids. PubMed
  13. Perim P, Gobbi N, Duarte B, et al. Beta-alanine did not improve high-intensity performance throughout simulated road cycling. Eur J Sport Sci 2021. PubMed

See these in context on the Beta-alanine monograph →

Vitamin B12 30 references
  1. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline (2000). Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000. Available at: http://b
  2. Hartman TJ, Woodson K, Stolzenberg-Solomon R, et al. Association of the B-vitamins pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (B6), B12, and folate with lung cancer risk in older men. Am J Epidemiol 2001;153:688-94.. DOI
  3. Jansen T, Romiti R, Kreuter A, Altmeyer P. Rosacea fulminans triggered by high-dose vitamins B6 and B12. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2001;15:484-5..
  4. Lange H, Suryapranata H, De Luca G, et al. Folate therapy and in-stent restenosis after coronary stenting. N Engl J Med 2004;350:2673-81. PubMed
  5. Collin, S. M., Metcalfe, C., Refsum, H., Lewis, S. J., Zuccolo, L., Smith, G. D., Chen, L., Harris, R., Davis, M., Marsden, G., Johnston, C., Lane, J. A., Ebbing, M., Bonaa, K. H., Nygard, O., Ueland, P. M., Grau, M. V., Baron, J. A., Donovan, J. L., Nea
  6. Geissbuhler, P., Mermillod, B., and Rapin, C. H. Elevated serum vitamin B12 levels associated with CRP as a predictive factor of mortality in palliative care cancer patients: a prospective study over five years. J.Pain Symptom.Manage. 2000;20(2):93-103. PubMed
  7. Salles, N., Herrmann, F., Sakbani, K., Rapin, C. H., and Sieber, C. High vitamin B12 level: a strong predictor of mortality in elderly inpatients. J Am Geriatr.Soc 2005;53(5):917-918.
  8. Looker, H. C., Fagot-Campagna, A., Gunter, E. W., Pfeiffer, C. M., Sievers, M. L., Bennett, P. H., Nelson, R. G., Hanson, R. L., and Knowler, W. C. Homocysteine and vitamin B(12) concentrations and mortality rates in type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Metab Res R
  9. Uhl, W., Nolting, A., Golor, G., Rost, K. L., and Kovar, A. Safety of hydroxocobalamin in healthy volunteers in a randomized, placebo-controlled study. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2006;44 Suppl 1:17-28. PubMed
  10. Borron, S. W., Baud, F. J., Barriot, P., Imbert, M., and Bismuth, C. Prospective study of hydroxocobalamin for acute cyanide poisoning in smoke inhalation. Ann Emerg.Med 2007;49(6):794-801, 801. PubMed
  11. Borron, S. W., Baud, F. J., Megarbane, B., and Bismuth, C. Hydroxocobalamin for severe acute cyanide poisoning by ingestion or inhalation. Am J Emerg.Med 2007;25(5):551-558. PubMed
  12. Lewis, J. G. Gout, Steatorrhoea, and Megaloblastic Anaemia. Ann Rheum.Dis 1962;21(3):284-286. PubMed
  13. Tal, S., Shavit, Y., Stern, F., and Malnick, S. Association between vitamin B12 levels and mortality in hospitalized older adults. J Am Geriatr.Soc 2010;58(3):523-526. PubMed
  14. Baztan, J. J., Gavidia, J. J., Gomez-Pavon, J., Esteve, A., and Ruiperez, I. High vitamin B12 levels and in-hospital mortality. J Am Geriatr.Soc 2010;58(11):2237-2238. PubMed
  15. Omboni, E., Checchini, M., and Longoni, F. [Hypopotassemia and megaloblastic anemia. Presentation of a case]. Minerva Med 8-31-1987;78(16):1255-1257.
  16. Aalfs As, Scholvinck LH, Horvath B. Acneiform eruption in a 5-year old due to vitamin B12 supplementation. Eur J Dermatol 2013;23(5):726-7. PubMed
  17. Balta I, Ozuguz P. Vitamin B12-induced acneiform eruption. Cutan Ocul Toxicol 2014;33(2):94-5. PubMed
  18. Carman KB, Belgemen T, Yis U. Involuntary movements misdiagnosed as seizure during vitamin B12 treatment. Pediatr Emerg Care 2013;29(11):1223-4. PubMed
  19. Djuric V, Bogic M, Popadic AP, et al. Anaphylactic reaction to hydroxycobalamin with tolerance to cyanocobalamin. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2012;108(3):207-8. PubMed
  20. Kartel O, Gulec M, Demirel F, et al. Vitamin B12 allergy and successful desensitization with cyanocobalamin: A case report. Allergol Immunopath (Madr) 2012;40(5):324-5.
  21. Patiroglu T, Unal E, Yildirim S. Infantile tremor syndrome associated with cobalamin therapy: A case report. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2013;115(9):1903-5. PubMed
  22. Schulte S, Barkema LW, Kardaun SH. Long-lasting atypical acneiform eruption with prominent comedones induced by hydroxocobalamin (vitamin B12). J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2014;12(6):502-3.
  23. Zanus C, Alberini E, Costa P, et al. Involuntary movements after correction of vitamin B12 deficiency: A video-case report. Epileptic Disord 2012;14(2):174-80. PubMed
  24. Fanidi A, Carreras-Torres R, Larose TL, et al. Is high vitamin B12 status a cause of lung cancer? Int J Cancer. 2019 Sep 15;145(6):1499-1503. PubMed
  25. Fujita Y, Mizukami T, Maya Y, et al. Vitamin B12 allergy manifesting as lymphomatoid contact dermatitis. Eur J Dermatol. 2020;30(3):304-305. PubMed
  26. Dépret F, Hoffmann C, Daoud L, et al. Association between hydroxocobalamin administration and acute kidney injury after smoke inhalation: a multicenter retrospective study. Crit Care. 2019;23(1):421. PubMed
  27. Khairan P, Sobue T, Eshak ES, et al. Association of dietary intakes of vitamin B12, vitamin B6, folate, and methionine with the risk of esophageal cancer: the Japan Public Health Center-based (JPHC) prospective study. BMC Cancer 2021;21(1):982. PubMed
  28. Evans J, Pandya A, Ding Y, Qunibi WY. Hydroxocobalamin-Induced Oxalate Nephropathy in a Patient With Smoke Inhalation. Kidney Int Rep 2021;6(8):2228-2231. PubMed
  29. Lacombe V, Chabrun F, Lacout C, et al. Persistent elevation of plasma vitamin B12 is strongly associated with solid cancer. Sci Rep 2021;11(1):13361. PubMed
  30. Pegalajar-García MD, Cebolla-Verdugo M, Prados-Carmona Á, Llamas-Segura C, Navarro-Triviño FJ. Systemic allergic dermatitis to cobalt present in cyanocobalamin supplementation. Contact Dermatitis 2023;89(3):203-205. PubMed

See these in context on the Vitamin B12 monograph →

Niacin 66 references
  1. Garg R, Malinow MR, Pettinger M, et al. Niacin treatment increases plasma homocysteine levels. Am Heart J 1999;138:1082-7.
  2. Anon. Inositol hexaniacinate. Altern Med Rev 1998;3:222-3.
  3. Knodel LC, Talbert RL. Adverse effects of hypolipidaemic drugs. Med Toxicol 1987;2:10-32. PubMed
  4. Guyton JR, Blazing MA, Hagar J, et al. Extended-release niacin vs gemfibrozil for the treatment of low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Niaspan-Gemfibrozil Study Group. Arch Intern Med 2000;160:1177-84. PubMed
  5. Gibbons LW, Gonzalez V, Gordon N, Grundy S. The prevalence of side effects with regular and sustained-release nicotinic acid. Am J Med 1995;99:378-85. PubMed
  6. Whelan AM, Price SO, Fowler SF, Hainer BL. The effect of aspirin on niacin-induced cutaneous reactions. J Fam Pract 1992;34:165-8.
  7. Jungnickel PW, Maloley PA, Vander Tuin EL, et al. Effect of two aspirin pretreatment regimens on niacin-induced cutaneous reactions. J Gen Intern Med 1997;12:591-6. PubMed
  8. Capuzzi DM, Guyton JR, Morgan JM, et al. Efficacy and safety of an extended-release niacin (Niaspan): a long-term study. Am J Cardiol 1998;82:74-81;disc. 85U-6U. PubMed
  9. Gray DR, Morgan T, Chretien SD, Kashyap ML. Efficacy and safety of controlled-release niacin in dyslipoproteinemic veterans. Ann Intern Med 1994;121:252-8. PubMed
  10. McKenney JM, Proctor JD, Harris S, Chinchili VM. A comparison of the efficacy and toxic effects of sustained- vs immediate-release niacin in hypercholesterolemic patients. JAMA 1994;271:672-7. DOI
  11. Knopp RH, Alagona P, Davidson M, et al. Equivalent efficacy of a time-release form of niacin (Niaspan) given once-a-night versus plain niacin in the management of hyperlipidemia. Metabolism 1998;47:1097-104. PubMed
  12. Knopp RH. Clinical profiles of plain versus sustained-release niacin (Niaspan) and the physiologic rationale for nighttime dosing. Am J Cardiol 1998;82:24U-28U;discussion 39U-41U. PubMed
  13. Garg A, Grundy SM. Nicotinic acid as therapy for dyslipidemia in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. JAMA 1990;264:723-6. DOI
  14. Leighton RF, Gordon NF, Small GS, et al. Dental and gingival pain as side effects of niacin therapy. Chest 1998;114:1472-4. PubMed
  15. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. ASHP Therapeutic Position Statement on the safe use of niacin in the management of dyslipidemias. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1997;54:2815-9. DOI
  16. Vega GL, Grundy SM. Lipoprotein responses to treatment with lovastatin, gemfibrozil, and nicotinic acid in normolipidemic patients with hypoalphalipoproteinemia. Arch Intern Med 1994;154:73-82. DOI
  17. Guyton JR, Goldberg AC, Kreisberg RA, et al. Effectiveness of once-nightly dosing of extended-release niacin alone and in combination for hypercholesterolemia. Am J Cardiol 1998;82:737-43.
  18. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline (2000). Washington, DC: National Academy Press, 2000. Available at: http://b
  19. Brown BG, Zhao XQ, Chait A, et al. Simvastatin and niacin, antioxidant vitamins, or the combination for the prevention of coronary disease. N Engl J Med 2001;345:1583-93. DOI
  20. Bays HE, Dujovne CA. Drug interactions of lipid-altering drugs. Drug Saf 1998;19:355-71. PubMed
  21. Rader JI, Calvert RJ, Hathcock JN. Hepatic toxicity of unmodified and time-release preparations of niacin. Am J Med 1992;92:77-81. PubMed
  22. Kahn SE, Beard JC, Schwartz MW, et al. Increased B-cell secretory capacity as mechanism for islet adaptation to nicotinic acid-induced insulin resistance. Diabetes 1989;38:562-8.
  23. Schwartz ML. Severe reversible hyperglycemia as a consequence of niacin therapy. Arch Int Med 1993;153:2050-2. DOI
  24. Raising HDL and Niacin Use. Pharmacist's Letter/Prescriber's Letter 2004;20(5):200504.
  25. McKenney J. New perspectives on the use of niacin in the treatment of lipid disorders. Arch Intern Med 2004;164:697-705. PubMed
  26. Reaven P, Witztum JL. Lovastatin, nicotinic acid and rhabdomyolysis (letter). Ann Int Med 1988;109:597-8. PubMed
  27. Ito MK. Advances in the understanding and management of dyslipidemia: using niacin-based therapies. Am J Health-Syst Pharm 2003;60(suppl 2):s15-21. PubMed
  28. Schwab RA, Bachhuber BH. Delirium and lactic acidosis caused by ethanol and niacin coingestion. Am J Emerg Med 1991;9:363-5. PubMed
  29. Product information: Niaspan. Kos Pharmaceuticals. Cranbury, NJ. 2005. Available at www.niaspan.com/professional/content/pdfs/productinfo.pdf. (Accessed 3 March 2006).
  30. Ding RW, Kolbe K, Merz B, et al. Pharmacokinetics of nicotinic acid-salicylic acid interaction. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1989;46:642-7. PubMed
  31. NIH News. NIH stops clinical trial on combination cholesterol treatment. May 26, 2011. http://www.nih.gov/news/health/may2011/nhlbi-26.htm. (Accessed 3 June 2011).
  32. Dearing BD, Lavie CJ, Lohmann TP, Genton E. Niacin-induced clotting factor synthesis deficiency with coagulopathy. Arch Intern Med. 1992;152(4):861-3. DOI
  33. O'Brien T, Silverberg JD, Nguyen TT. Nicotinic acid-induced toxicity associated with cytopenia and decreased levels of thyroxine-binding globulin. Mayo Clin Proc. 1992;67(5):465-8. PubMed
  34. Gadegbeku CA, Dhandayuthapani A, Shrayyef MZ, Egan BM. Hemodynamic effects of nicotinic acid infusion in normotensive and hypertensive subjects. Am J Hypertens. 2003;16(1):67-71. PubMed
  35. Garnett WR. Interactions with hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 1995;52(15):1639-45. PubMed
  36. Litin SC, Anderson CF. Nicotinic acid-associated myopathy: a report of three cases. Am J Med. 1989;86(4):481-3. PubMed
  37. Dunn RT, Ford MA, Rindone JP, Kwiecinski FA. Low-Dose Aspirin and Ibuprofen Reduce the Cutaneous Reactions Following Niacin Administration. Am J Ther. 1995;2(7):478-480. PubMed
  38. Cashin-Hemphill L, Spencer CA, Nicoloff JT, et al. Alterations in serum thyroid hormonal indices with colestipol-niacin therapy. Ann Intern Med. 1987;107(3):324-9. PubMed
  39. Drinka PJ. Alterations in thyroid and hepatic function tests associated with preparations of sustained-release niacin. Mayo Clin Proc. 1992;67(12):1206. PubMed
  40. Shakir KM, Kroll S, Aprill BS, Drake AJ 3rd, Eisold JF. Nicotinic acid decreases serum thyroid hormone levels while maintaining a euthyroid state. Mayo Clin Proc. 1995;70(6):556-8. PubMed
  41. Etchason JA, Miller TD, Squires RW, et al. Niacin-induced hepatitis: a potential side effect with low-dose time-release niacin. Mayo Clin Proc. 1991;66(1):23-8. PubMed
  42. Henkin Y, Johnson KC, Segrest JP. Rechallenge with crystalline niacin after drug-induced hepatitis from sustained-release niacin. JAMA. 1990;264(2):241-3. DOI
  43. Henkin Y, Oberman A, Hurst DC, Segrest JP. Niacin revisited: clinical observations on an important but underutilized drug. Am J Med. 1991;91(3):239-46. PubMed
  44. Brown BG, Bardsley J, Poulin D, et al. Moderate dose, three-drug therapy with niacin, lovastatin, and colestipol to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol <100 mg/dl in patients with hyperlipidemia and coronary artery disease. Am J Cardiol. 1997;80(2)
  45. Goldberg A, Alagona P Jr, Capuzzi DM, et al. Multiple-dose efficacy and safety of an extended-release form of niacin in the management of hyperlipidemia. Am J Cardiol. 2000;85(9):1100-5. PubMed
  46. Aronov DM, Keenan JM, Akhmedzhanov NM, et al. Clinical trial of wax-matrix sustained-release niacin in a Russian population with hypercholesterolemia. Arch Fam Med. 1996;5(10):567-75. PubMed
  47. Morgan JM, Capuzzi DM, Guyton JR, et al. Treatment Effect of Niaspan, a Controlled-release Niacin, in Patients With Hypercholesterolemia: A Placebo-controlled Trial. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther. 1996;1(3):195-202. PubMed
  48. Andersson RG, Aberg G, Brattsand R, Ericsson E, Lundholm L. Studies on the mechanism of flush induced by nicotinic acid. Acta Pharmacol Toxicol (Copenh). 1977 Jul;41(1):1-10. PubMed
  49. Brown WV. Niacin for lipid disorders. Indications, effectiveness, and safety. Postgrad Med. 1995 Aug;98(2):185-9, 192-3. PubMed
  50. O'REILLY PO, CALLBECK MJ, HOFFER A. Sustained-release nicotinic acid (nicospan); effect on (1) cholesterol levels and (2) leukocytes. Can Med Assoc J. 1959;80(5):359-62.
  51. Gharavi AG, Diamond JA, Smith DA, Phillips RA. Niacin-induced myopathy. Am J Cardiol. 1994;74(8):841-2. PubMed
  52. Litin SC, Anderson CF. Nicotinic acid-associated myopathy: a report of three cases. Am J Med. 1989;86(4):481-3. PubMed
  53. Fraunfelder FW, Fraunfelder FT, Illingworth DR. Adverse ocular effects associated with niacin therapy. Br J Ophthalmol 1995;79:54-56. PubMed
  54. Ali EH, McJunkin B, Jubelirer S, Hood W. Niacin induced coagulopathy as a manifestation of occult liver injury. W V Med J. 2013 Jan-Feb;109(1):12-4
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

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