Migraines, nerve damage: The Australians poisoned by over-the-counter vitamins
Vitamin B6 is an essential nutrient found naturally in meat and plant sources, and occasionally added to popular over-the-counter supplements to aid the metabolic process.
It has generally been considered toxic only when consumed in high doses over a long period, but the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) last month noted there was no scientific consensus on a safe threshold. Symptoms include nausea, hypersensitivity and nerve damage that can lead to tingling, burning and numbness throughout the body.
Melbourne injury law firm Polaris Lawyers announced in May that it was pursuing a class action investigation against Blackmores on behalf of anyone who has suffered injuries after taking its supplements 'containing higher than recommended levels of vitamin B6'.
The firm's principal, Nick Mann, said the response had been overwhelming, with more than 300 inquiries into joining the potential suit. The majority of respondents suffered injuries after taking Blackmores supplements containing vitamin B6, either exclusively or alongside supplements made by other companies, he said.
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'One of the things that surprised me has been the number of people who've told us about really significant and ongoing impacts of basic toxicity long after they've ceased taking the supplement,' Mann said. 'The impacts on them have been permanent and ongoing.'
A Blackmores spokesperson said all its products, including those containing vitamin B6, are developed 'in strict accordance' with the TGA's regulatory requirements.
Mann said companies had a duty to protect customers and there was strong precedent for successful legal claims against the manufacturers of products approved by regulators but later proven to be harmful.
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