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Is vitamin B6 supplementation of isoniazid therapy useful in childhood tuberculosis

L Mbala1, R Matendo, R Nkailu

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Hospital of IME-Kimpese (Institut Medical Evangélique), Lower Zaire, Republic of Zaire.

Tropical Doctor
|May 22, 1998
PubMed

Insights

Vitamin B6 supplementation is not necessary for children undergoing isoniazid therapy for tuberculosis (TB). A study found no neurological side effects in children receiving vitamin B6 or a placebo during TB treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Childhood tuberculosis (TB) requires effective treatment regimens.
  • Isoniazid is a key drug in TB treatment.
  • Potential side effects of isoniazid therapy, such as neurological disorders, are a concern.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine if vitamin B6 supplementation is beneficial when combined with isoniazid therapy in children with TB.
  • To assess the efficacy and safety of vitamin B6 in preventing potential isoniazid-induced neurological complications.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective, single-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted.
  • Eighty-five children with TB received standard antitubercular treatment, including isoniazid.
  • Participants were randomized to receive either vitamin B6 supplementation or a placebo for 6 months, with follow-up for 3 months post-treatment.

Main Results:

  • No cases of neurological or neuropsychiatric disorders were observed in either the vitamin B6 supplemented group or the placebo group.
  • The incidence of adverse events related to the nervous system was similar between the two groups.

Conclusions:

  • Vitamin B6 supplementation appears unnecessary for children receiving isoniazid therapy for tuberculosis.
  • Standard isoniazid treatment, even without vitamin B6, did not result in observable neurological or neuropsychiatric issues in this pediatric cohort.

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