Pyridoxine (a vitamin B6) and its derivative pyridoxal as treatment for Albizia versicolor poisoning in guinea-pigs

Abstract

In the course of three experiments it was established that all the toxic effects of a lethal dose of Albizia versicolor pods (> 4,5 g/kg) in guinea-pigs could be countered by concurrent subcutaneous injection of pyridoxine (10 mg/kg). This treatment was also successful once severe symptoms had set in. Pyridoxal, on the other hand, was found to be ineffective as a therapeutic agent. The fact that pyridoxal does not counter the action of the toxin indicates an atypical site of action by the toxin as regards the normal pathways which require vitamin B6 as a co-factor.