Riboflavin - Benefits, dosage and side effects

Riboflavin or vitamin B2 is supplements to prevent and treat riboflavin deficiency. In the body, this vitamin plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin, digestive tract, brain, and nervous system. Riboflavin also helps the formation of blood cells.

Riboflavin is found in many types of food and beverages, such as milk, eggs, beef liver, meat, beans, green vegetables, bread, and cereals. Apart from natural sources, riboflavin is also available in supplement form. Riboflavin supplements are given to people with riboflavin deficiency who cannot get enough of this vitamin from food.

Riboflavin supplements are often found in combination with other B vitamins. In addition to overcoming vitamin B2 deficiency, this supplement is also believed to be used in the treatment of cataracts, high levels of homocysteine in the blood, and migraine. However, further research is needed to ensure its effectiveness and safety.

Riboflavin trademark:Arkavit C- Dez, Bio Plus, Curcuma Plus, Cebevit, Damuvit, Ena'O, Farmabex C, Liveril, Hemaviton Action Total Care Imunup, Ififort C, Maltiron Gold, Nutrimax B Complex, Ovacare, Pronamil, Surbex Pro, Sivit - Zinc , Sangobion, Vitamin B Complex

What is Riboflavin

groupOver-the-counter and prescription drugs
CategoryVitamin supplements
BenefitPrevent and treat riboflavin or vitamin B2 deficiency
Used byAdults and children
Riboflavin for pregnant and lactating womenCategory A:Controlled studies in pregnant women have not shown any risk to the fetus and are unlikely to harm the fetus.

Category C (if the dose exceeds the RDA):Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus.

Riboflavin supplements can be absorbed into breast milk and are known to be safe for consumption by nursing mothers.

Drug formCapsules, caplets, tablets, effervescent tablets and syrups

Warnings Before Taking Riboflavin

There are several things you should pay attention to before taking riboflavin supplements, including:

  • Tell your doctor about any allergies you have. Riboflavin supplements should not be given to someone who is allergic to the ingredients contained in this supplement.
  • Tell your doctor if you have or have had cirrhosis, hepatitis, or gallbladder disease.
  • Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
  • See your doctor immediately if you have an allergic reaction or overdose after taking riboflavin supplements.

Dosage and Rules for Use of Riboflavin

The dose of riboflavin varies, depending on the age of the patient and the purpose of use. Always consult a doctor to get the appropriate dose for your condition. In general, the dose of vitamin B2 use is as follows:

Purpose: Overcome riboflavin deficiency

  • Mature: 5–30 mg per day, divided into several doses
  • Children: 3–10 mg per day

Purpose:Prevents riboflavin deficiency

  • Mature: 1-2 mg per day

Purpose: Overcoming migraine headaches

  • Mature: 400 mg per day

Riboflavin Nutritional Adequacy Rate

Riboflavin needs can be met through food, supplements, or a combination of both. The recommended nutritional adequacy rate (RDA) varies based on age and health conditions. The following is a breakdown of the daily RDA for riboflavin:

  • 0–6 months old: 0.3 mg
  • Age 7–12 months: 0.4 mg
  • 1-3 years old: 0.5 mg
  • Ages 4–8 years: 0.6 mg
  • Ages 9–13 years: 0.9 mg
  • Male age 13 years: 1.3 mg
  • Female aged 13 years: 1 mg
  • Female aged 19 years: 1.1 mg
  • Pregnant women: 1.4 mg
  • Breastfeeding mothers: 1.6 mg

How to Take RiboflavinCorrectly

Vitamin and mineral supplements are taken to complement the intake of vitamins and minerals, especially when the intake of nutrients from food is not sufficient. Keep in mind, supplements are only as a complement, not as a substitute for nutrients from food.

Follow the doctor's recommendations and always read the instructions for use listed on the supplement packaging. Do not increase the dose without consulting your doctor first.

Riboflavin supplements in the form of tablets, caplets, and capsules should be taken with meals to increase absorption of this vitamin. Do not split, chew, or crush the supplement, as this may affect its effectiveness.

For riboflavin tablets effevescent, Dissolve it in a glass of water before consuming it. Riboflavin supplements in the form of syrup need to be shaken before consumption. Use the measuring spoon provided on the supplement packaging for the right dose.

Store riboflavin supplements in a place away from direct sunlight. Keep this supplement out of reach of children.

Riboflavin Interactions with Other Drugs

The following are a number of interactions that can be caused by riboflavin supplements when taken with other drugs:

  • Increased levels of riboflavin in the body when used with anticholinergic drugs or probenecid
  • Decreased blood levels of riboflavin when used with tricyclic antidepressants or phenobarbital
  • Decreased effectiveness of aminoglycoside or tetracycline antibiotics

Riboflavin Side Effects and Dangers

If taken according to the recommended dose, riboflavin supplements rarely cause side effects. However, if taken in excess, riboflavin supplements can cause diarrhea or make the urine yellower.

Consult a doctor if the complaint does not subside or even gets worse even though the consumption of riboflavin supplements has been reduced. You should also see a doctor immediately if you have an allergic reaction to the drug after taking riboflavin supplements.