Riboflavin: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

A 2017 review reported that daily riboflavin taken at 400 mg per day for at least three months may reduce the frequency of migraine headaches in adults. Research on high-dose riboflavin for migraine prevention or treatment in children and adolescents is inconclusive, and so supplements are not recommended. Ongoing research is also investigating riboflavin’s potential role in preventing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). While more research is needed, these findings suggest that riboflavin may play an important role in supporting long-term eye health. These interactions may affect how well riboflavin or the other medication works, or they could increase the risk of side effects. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate dietary supplements the way it regulates prescription medications.

  • Riboflavin works with other B vitamins like B6, folate, and B12 to break down homocysteine in the body.
  • If tests show you need more B2, head to the store and stock up on leafy greens, lean meats, dairy products and other riboflavin-rich foods.
  • The enrichment of bread and ready-to-eat breakfast cereals contributes significantly to the dietary supply of the vitamin.
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  • The cost of a 30-day supply of riboflavin supplements can vary depending on the brand and dosage.
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  • When excess riboflavin is absorbed by the small intestine, it is quickly removed from the blood and excreted in urine.
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  • Conversion of vitamin B6 to its coenzyme, pyridoxal 5′-phosphate, involves the enzyme, pyridoxine 5′-phosphate oxidase, which requires FMN.
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Riboflavin (Vitamin B : Benefits, Uses, and Dosage Guidelines

  • Unlike folate and vitamin B6, which occur in several chemically related forms known as vitamers, riboflavin is only one chemical compound.
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  • However, how riboflavin is regulated and transported in the heart in humans is not clearly understood.
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  • Therefore riboflavin has been studied as a prophylactic therapy for preventing migraines.
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  • A 2017 review reported that daily riboflavin taken at 400 mg per day for at least three months may reduce the frequency of migraine headaches in adults.
  • Ongoing research is also investigating riboflavin’s potential role in preventing cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
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  • The EARs[update] for riboflavin for women and men aged 14 and over are 0.9 mg/day and 1.1 mg/day, respectively; the RDAs are 1.1 and 1.3 mg/day, respectively.
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Riboflavin works with other B vitamins like B6, folate, and B12 to break down homocysteine in the body. However, how riboflavin is regulated and transported in the heart in humans is not clearly understood. Epidemiological studies have not shown that lowering homocysteine levels with B vitamin supplementation reduces the risk of heart attacks or deaths from CVD. The American Heart Association does not advocate for the use of B vitamin supplements for reducing CVD risk. Even better, the children saw a decrease in migraine pain for up to 18 months after they stopped taking riboflavin supplements.

Can you get too much riboflavin?

Because riboflavin assists many enzymes with various daily functions throughout the body, a deficiency can lead to health problems. Animal studies show that the brain and heart disorders and some cancers can develop from long-term riboflavin deficiency. Riboflavin regulates circulating levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that enters the diet from animal protein foods like meat.

Recommended Amounts

With a GoodRx coupon, a 30-day supply of riboflavin (100 mg tablets) typically ranges from $5 to $15 without insurance. Yes, riboflavin is not only safe but also essential for both maternal health and the infant’s growth and development. Breastfeeding mothers may require slightly higher amounts of King’s Chip casino riboflavin, but excessive supplementation should be avoided. Yes, riboflavin (Vitamin B2) is generally safe when taken in recommended amounts. However, it’s important to avoid high doses unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider. It is commonly used to manage various conditions, including migraines, anemia, and certain skin disorders.

Related MedlinePlus Health Topics

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  • If the vitamin is exposed to too much light, it can be deactivated from its usable form.
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  • People with riboflavin in their diet have a lower risk of developing cataracts.
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  • In 1938, Richard Kuhn was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his work on vitamins, which had included B2 and B6.
  • In the early 1900s, several research laboratories were investigating constituents of foods, essential to maintain growth in rats.
  • Natural sources of riboflavin include meat, fish and fowl, eggs, dairy products, green vegetables, mushrooms, and almonds.
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  • Therefore, a Tolerable Upper Intake Level for riboflavin has not been established.
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Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. There is growing evidence that riboflavin exerts a protective effect against certain types of cancer. A diet rich in vitamin B2 and other B-complex vitamins may lower your risk of cataracts.