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Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) Congeners in Serum

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the levels of various forms of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine and its breakdown products) in your blood serum. These metabolites help assess how your body processes and uses vitamin B6.

Quick summary

["Understanding your vitamin B6 metabolism can help identify potential deficiencies or metabolic issues."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2901-7
Short code
Vit B6 Congeners SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Vit B6 Congeners SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like nerve pain, depression, or anemia, or if you have conditions such as pregnancy, certain medications (like anticonvulsants), or metabolic disorders that affect vitamin B6 metabolism.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw, but this is not always required. Bring a list of medications you’re taking, as some can affect vitamin B6 levels.

What the Test Results Mean

Results show the concentration of different vitamin B6 metabolites, which can help determine if your body is processing vitamin B6 efficiently. Abnormal levels may indicate a deficiency or an overproduction of certain metabolites.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

High levels might be linked to certain medications, genetic factors, or metabolic conditions. Low levels could suggest vitamin B6 deficiency, especially if combined with other symptoms like fatigue or neurological issues.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Vitamin B6 Metabolites

Frequently asked questions

What does a vitamin B6 congener test measure?
This test measures the specific breakdown products (congeners) of vitamin B6 in your blood, which can provide a more detailed picture of how your body metabolizes this vitamin.
Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may order this test if they suspect a vitamin B6 deficiency, metabolic disorder, or if you’re taking medications that can affect vitamin B6 levels.
Can I eat or drink before the test?
You may need to fast for a few hours before the blood draw, but always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions to avoid unnecessary stress on your test results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy