What it does
Metadoxine is a medication that helps with alcohol-related issues and liver function.
Commonly used for: alcohol dependence (alcoholism), liver disease
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 20:14:46 · updated 2026-08-03 04:15:06
About this medicine
Metadoxine is a medication that helps with alcohol-related issues and liver function.
What it treats
- alcohol dependence (alcoholism)
- liver disease
How it works
Metadoxine helps to speed up the removal of alcohol from the body and supports liver health.
Who it's for
This medication is for adults dealing with alcohol-related problems or liver conditions.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: metadoxine
BNF-referencedMetadoxine is a medication primarily used in the treatment of alcohol use disorder and its associated symptoms. It is a combination of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and a derivative of the amino acid, and it is thought to facilitate the clearance of ethanol from the bloodstream, thus reducing the effects of alcohol intoxication and aiding in recovery from alcohol-related conditions.
Indications
- Alcohol use disorder
- Alcohol withdrawal syndrome
- Alcoholic liver disease
Dosage
Children: Paediatric dosing for metadoxine has not been well-established; refer to the BNF for Children for guidance.
Adults: The usual adult dosage of metadoxine may vary; refer to the BNF for specific dosing recommendations.
Mechanism of action
Metadoxine acts by enhancing the metabolism of ethanol in the liver, promoting the conversion of ethanol to acetaldehyde and subsequently to acetic acid, which can be further metabolized and eliminated from the body. It is believed to help restore normal neurotransmitter function affected by alcohol and may improve liver function.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of metadoxine include a reduction in blood alcohol levels, improvement in cognitive functions impaired by alcohol, and potential protective effects on hepatocytes. It may also enhance the clearance of acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of ethanol metabolism, which can contribute to hangover symptoms.
Pharmacokinetics
Metadoxine is rapidly absorbed following oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations typically occurring within a few hours. It has a moderate elimination half-life, and its metabolites are primarily excreted via the urine. The pharmacokinetics may be influenced by factors such as liver function and the presence of food in the gastrointestinal tract.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to metadoxine or any of its excipients
Adverse effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Hypersensitivity reactions
Interactions
- Antihypertensive agents
- Alcohol (may enhance the effects of alcohol withdrawal)
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with liver disease
- Caution in patients with a history of seizures
- Monitor for signs of hypersensitivity
Pregnancy
Metadoxine should only be used in pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as there is insufficient data on safety.
Breast-feeding
It is not known whether metadoxine is excreted in human milk. Caution is advised when administering to breastfeeding women.
Storage
Store below 25°C in a dry place. Protect from light.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Injectable solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: metadoxine
PubChem CID 115198Molecular formula: C13H18N2O6
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.