Pyridoxine hydrochloride

Pyridoxine hydrochloride (pronunciation: pir-i-DOX-een HYE-droe-KLOR-ide) is a form of vitamin B6 that is commonly used in vitamin supplements and fortified foods.

Etymology

The term "pyridoxine" is derived from the Greek words "pyridine" and "doxa", which mean "fire" and "glory" respectively. The "hydrochloride" part of the name refers to the presence of a hydrochloride ion, which is a type of salt.

Usage

Pyridoxine hydrochloride is used to prevent or treat a certain nerve disorder (peripheral neuropathy) that can occur in certain medical conditions (such as pyridoxine deficiency, certain metabolic disorders, and side effects of certain medications). It is also used to treat a certain type of anemia (lack of red blood cells).

Related Terms

Vitamin B6: A group of chemically similar compounds which can be interconverted in biological systems.
Hydrochloride: A salt that is formed by reacting hydrochloric acid with an organic base.
Anemia: A condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells.
Metabolic disorder: A medical condition that occurs when the metabolism process fails and causes the body to have either too much or too little of the essential substances needed to stay healthy.
Pyridoxine deficiency: A condition that occurs when there is not enough pyridoxine in the body.