Riboflavin (vitamin B2)

Riboflavin is an active ingredient for the prevention and treatment of vitamin B2 deficiency. It belongs to the group of B vitamins and is important for many metabolic processes in our body. Among other things, the active ingredient is involved in the formation of red blood cells, respiration, antibody production, growth and reproduction. Riboflavin is a prodrug and is first converted in the body to FAD (flavin adenine dinucleotide) and FMN (flavin mononucleotide), which are active as cofactors in many enzymes. A prodrug is an inactive substance that is only converted into its active form in the body, where it is supposed to work. Vitamin B2 is contained in many foods and is almost exclusively available as a combination preparation in medicines. As a vitamin supplement, it ensures healthy skin and nails, regulates the activity of the thyroid gland and prevents eye diseases such as cataracts. The vitamin B2 requirement is mainly covered by dairy products. Riboflavin is a yellow to orange powder that tastes bitter and is soluble in water. When taking the active ingredient, it should be noted that the urine can turn a very intense yellow color, but this is not dangerous. Riboflavin is light-sensitive but heat-resistant.

Riboflavin works by producing energy through the conversion of fatty acids, carbohydrates and proteins. It binds to riboflavin hydrogenase, riboflavin kinase and riboflavin synthase. It acts mainly as a hydrogen carrier in redox reactions and is therefore an important building block of our metabolism.

Vitamin B2 is converted in the liver and absorbed in the upper gastrointestinal tract. The half-life, i.e. the time the body needs to excrete half of the active ingredient, is around 66-84 minutes.

Always take riboflavin (vitamin B2) exactly as described in the package leaflet or as advised by your doctor.

Adults:

The usual recommended daily requirement is 1.2-1.5 mg per day. For pregnant women 1.5 mg and for breastfeeding women 1.6 mg per day .

The recommended daily intake for vitamin B2 deficiency is 15 mg.

Children & adolescents:

The usual recommended daily requirement is 0.7-1.6 mg per day .

The recommended daily intake for vitamin B2 deficiency is 15 mg.

The following side effects may occur:

• Chromaturia (intense yellowing of the urine)

There are NO known interactions.

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) must NOT be taken in the following cases

• in case of hypersensitivity

Riboflavin can be taken from the age of 11.

During pregnancy, riboflavin (vitamin B2 ) can be taken as indicated in the event of a deficiency.

During breastfeeding, riboflavin (vitamin B2 ) can be taken as indicated in cases of deficiency. Although it passes into breast milk, it is unlikely to have any harmful effects on the child (at therapeutic doses).

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) was first isolated from eggs in 1920.