Riboflavin
About
Riboflavin belongs to the group of vitamin supplements primarily used to treat riboflavin (Vitamin B2) deficiency. Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2 is necessary for the proper functioning of the skin, the digestive tract, the blood and the brain. Riboflavin is also useful in the treatment of migraine and keratoconus.
Riboflavin is composed of 'Riboflavin'. It helps in converting food (carbohydrates) into energy (glucose), which can be used for uptake by the body cells. It also acts as an antioxidant and protects the cells from free radical damage.
Take Riboflavin as advised. Riboflavin is safe to use and does not usually cause any side effects. However, in some cases, certain common side effects such as nausea, and bright/yellow urine may be seen. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if these side effects persist.
Inform the doctor if you are allergic to any of the components of Riboflavin. Please inform your doctor if you suffer from any diseases or allergies. Exercise caution with Riboflavin in case of liver disease, as it can affect riboflavin metabolism. Consult your physician before using Riboflavin during pregnancy or if you are breastfeeding.
Uses of Riboflavin
Medicinal Benefits
Riboflavin is a vitamin supplement. It contains Riboflavin. Riboflavin is used to address riboflavin deficiency which is called ariboflavinosis. It is used in the treatment of riboflavin deficiency, mouth sores, migraine and keratoconus. Riboflavin converts food into energy and finds application in the treatment of various states produced by its deficiency. Riboflavin helps in the production of co-enzymes that are essential for the production of antibodies, oxygen for the cells, and also for generating energy in the body required for optimal growth and development of the body.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Riboflavin
- Nausea
- Bright, yellow urine
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Inform the physician if you are allergic to any of the components of Riboflavin. Inform your healthcare professional if you suffer from any diseases or allergies. Exercise caution with Riboflavin in case of liver disease, as it can affect riboflavin metabolism. Inform your doctor of your entire medical and drug history before using Riboflavin. Be cautious while using Riboflavin with tetracycline antibiotics, to avoid an interaction. Consult your doctor before using Riboflavin during pregnancy or if you are breastfeeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Riboflavin may interact with tetracycline antibiotics (doxycycline, oxytetracycline, demeclocycline, minocycline).
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found.
Drug-Disease Interactions: No interactions found.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionRiboflavin should be used with caution with alcohol to avoid an interaction. Please consult your physician in case of any concerns.
Pregnancy
cautionNot enough studies have been done on pregnant women. Please consult your physician in case of any concerns.
Breast Feeding
cautionNot enough studies on the subject exist. Please consult your physician in case of any concerns.
Driving
consult your doctorRiboflavin is unlikely to affect your ability to drive.
Liver
cautionLiver disease can decrease the absorption of Riboflavin. Please consult your physician in case of any concerns.
Kidney
consult your doctorRiboflavin is probably safe on the kidney. Please consult your doctor in case of any concerns.
Children
consult your doctorRiboflavin is safe for use in children when recommended by the doctor.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Load up on a nutrient-rich diet focused on Vitamin B. Riboflavin-rich foods include milk, meat, eggs, nuts, fortified flour and green vegetables.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This can help ease the symptoms of migraine.
- Doing weight-bearing exercises such as brisk walking, jogging, tennis or even dance can be very useful in promoting overall physical health. However, do not over-exert yourself if you feel too tired. Muscle training activities such as yoga and Pilates can also be very helpful in promoting good physical health.
- Avoid stress and try meditation and psychotherapy to reduce stress and to take care of your mental health.
- Limit your alcohol intake. Drink only in moderation.
Special Advise
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Ariboflavinosis: Ariboflavinosis is a disorder caused by Riboflavin deficiency in the body. It is characterized by mouth sores. Other symptoms include skin changes, oedema and swelling of the lips and mouth, a magenta coloured, inflamed tongue, lesions in the corner of the mouth, swollen cracked lips and reproductive problems.
FAQs
Riboflavin works by participating in various energy-producing pathways in the body, converting food into energy.
Riboflavin absorption is compromised in patients suffering from liver disease. Therefore, Riboflavin must be used with care in liver disease. Consult your doctor in case of any concerns.
Yes. Riboflavin can be effective in dealing with typical mouth sores as it restores the integrity of the lining of the mouth. However, there can be many causes of mouth sores. Consult a doctor in case of any concerns.
The recommended daily allowance (RDA) of riboflavin is 2.5 mg in males and 1.8 mg in females.
In case you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and revert to the original dosing schedule.
