Pyridoxine hydrochloride

Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine or the anti-pellagra vitamin, is scientifically designated as 2-methyl-3-hydroxy-4,5-dihydroxymethylpyridine, with its pharmaceutical preparation typically being pyridoxine hydrochloride. The hydrochloride salt represents the predominant form utilized in medicinal formulations. This compound presents as a white to faintly yellowish crystalline powder that undergoes decomposition at 204-206°C. It demonstrates high solubility in aqueous media, ethanol, and acetone, while exhibiting limited dissolution in ether. Characterized by an acidic and bitter taste profile, the substance maintains stability under standard atmospheric conditions but undergoes gradual photodegradation and displays sublimation tendencies.

When subjected to ferric chloride reagent, it produces a characteristic reddish-brown coloration. Natural occurrences include rice bran, vegetable matter, yeast cultures, molasses, and lipid-containing substances, while synthetic production routes utilize methyl methoxyacetate, acetone, and ethyl cyanoacetate as precursors. Clinical applications encompass prophylaxis and management of gestational nausea, radiation-induced emesis, isoniazid toxicity, and adverse gastrointestinal effects associated with antineoplastic agents. Furthermore, it serves as adjunctive therapy for pellagra and selected nutritional deficiency conditions.