• Basic Info
• Top Questions

What is riboflavin?
Riboflavin is vitamin B2. Vitamins are naturally occurring substances necessary for many processes in the body. Riboflavin is important in the maintenance of many tissues of the body. Riboflavin is used to prevent and to treat deficiencies of riboflavin. Riboflavin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

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What are the possible side effects of riboflavin?

Stop taking riboflavin and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).

Riboflavin may cause your urine to become a yellow-orange color. This effect is harmless.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

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How should I take riboflavin?
Take riboflavin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Do not take more riboflavin than is prescribed for you or than is directed on the package. Store riboflavin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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What is the most important information I should know about riboflavin?
Do not take more riboflavin than is prescribed for you or than is directed on the package.

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What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose.

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What other drugs will affect riboflavin?
It is not known whether other drugs will interact with riboflavin. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines or herbal/health supplements.

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Can I take this if I am pregnant or trying to get pregnant or if I am breastfeeding?

Do not take a riboflavin supplement without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

Do not take a riboflavin supplement without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

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What happens if I overdose?
It is not known whether an overdose of riboflavin is dangerous. If you suspect and overdose, call a doctor or a poison control center for advice.

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Who should not take riboflavin?
Before taking riboflavin, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional if you have any other medical conditions, allergies, or if you take other medicines or other herbal/health supplements. Do not take a riboflavin supplement without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Do not take a riboflavin supplement without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding.

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Can I stop taking the medication if I feel better?
As a general rule, you should always take your medications exactly as prescribed and do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without first discussing it with your healthcare provider.

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I am on so many medications; do I have to take them all?
This is called polypharmacy—many different medications being used at the same time by one person. Sometimes, being on multiple medications is acceptable and appropriate but at other times it may be problematic. If you are receiving your medications from multiple physicians you need to ensure that they all know what medications you are taking. The best way to do this is to make a list of all the medications you are currently using, including all nutritional supplements, homeopathic remedies, vitamins and over-the-counter drugs (if possible, also include all the diseases you have been diagnosed with). Give a copy to every doctor who takes care of you so they have it on file, this way they can avoid duplicating medications and perhaps even try to consolidate some. After every doctor's visit remember to update the list accordingly. Also, as much as you possibly can, try to use the same pharmacy to fill all your prescriptions, this way any potential drug interactions can be caught and averted.

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