Australian Man Claims Vitamin B6 Supplement Caused Long-Term Health Issues
A 33-year-old man from Melbourne, Dominic Noonan-O’Keeffe, has come forward with a concerning story about his health after taking vitamin B6 supplements. He claims that the supplement led to long-term pain and cognitive difficulties, prompting a class action lawsuit against Blackmores, a well-known wellness company.
Noonan-O’Keeffe began taking two supplements, Blackmores Super Magnesium+ and Ashwagandha+, in May 2023. These were partly recommended by health podcasters. Over several months, he developed symptoms linked to excessive intake of vitamin B6. While this nutrient is naturally found in meats and plants, it is often added to supplements for its metabolism-boosting properties.
However, overconsumption of vitamin B6 can be harmful, and there is no clear consensus on what constitutes a safe level. His symptoms started as fatigue, nerve pain, migraines, and visual disturbances. It wasn’t until nine months later that his stepsister suggested he might be taking B6 supplements, after a colleague experienced similar issues.
This realization was a turning point. He immediately stopped all supplements, had a blood test, and was diagnosed with B6 toxicity within a week. Further investigation revealed that the Magnesium+ supplement he was using contained approximately 29 times the recommended daily intake of vitamin B6.
Even now, Noonan-O’Keeffe continues to suffer from numbness in his fingers, nerve pain in his neck, and reduced cognitive function. He remains hopeful that he is nearing the end of a flare-up and that recovery is possible, though the future remains uncertain.
Legal Action Begins Against Blackmores
An injury law firm, Polaris Lawyers, has initiated a class action investigation against Blackmores, representing anyone who has suffered injuries from their supplements. The firm is acting on behalf of individuals who claim they were harmed after taking B6 supplements, either alone or in combination with other products.
Polaris principal Nick Mann mentioned that more than 300 people have contacted them about joining the lawsuit. Several individuals have shared their experiences of B6 toxicity, including:
- Elli Carew, 64, who inadvertently took B6 through other supplements for years, leading to complications in her Parkinson’s disease treatment.
- Penny Thompson, 61, who initially experienced numbness in her hands and feet, followed by paralyzed vocal cords. This affected her ability to eat and speak, resulting in the loss of her job as a TAFE teacher. She also developed headaches, gut pain, and numbness.
Mann described the reports as “alarming,” highlighting the widespread availability of supplements containing high levels of B6. He emphasized that consumers have the right to trust that the products they purchase are safe.
Regulatory Response and Company Statement
In June, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) announced it would consider requiring supplements with more than 50mg of vitamin B6 to be stored behind pharmacy counters. This change is expected to take effect in February 2027.
Blackmores responded to the situation, stating that they are committed to maintaining the highest standards of product quality and consumer safety. A company spokesperson said: “All our products, including those containing vitamin B6, are developed in strict accordance with the regulatory requirements of the TGA. This includes compliance with maximum permitted daily doses and the inclusion of mandated warning statements.”
They acknowledged the TGA’s interim decision and confirmed their intention to fully comply with any final determination.
Ongoing Concerns and Public Awareness
The case has raised significant concerns about the safety of over-the-counter supplements, particularly those containing high levels of vitamin B6. As more individuals come forward with similar stories, the need for clearer regulations and stronger consumer protections becomes increasingly evident.
For now, the legal battle continues, with many hoping for justice and greater awareness around the potential dangers of supplement use.
