VITAMIN B

a complex of several important vitamins including B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B6 (pyridoxine), B12 (cobalamin). Vitamin B1 is needed for nerve signal transmission; deficiency may lead to neuropathy. Vitamin B2 is needed for the metabolism of amino acids; deficiency can result in eye and mouth pain and mental changes. Vitamin B6 is necessary for the production of many enzymes and chemical messengers (e.g., neurotransmitters); deficiency is linked to neuropathy and mental depression, skin rashes, nausea and seizures. Vitamin B12 is needed for red blood cell production and DNA synthesis and repair; deficiency may result in anemia, neurological dysfunction, neuropathy and changes in mental status.