Vitamin B2

Generic name: riboflavin (vitamin B2) [ RYE-bow-flay-vin ]
Brand names: B2-400, Vitamin B2
Drug class: Vitamins

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 1, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

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 treat or prevent deficiencies of riboflavin.

Riboflavin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use Vitamin B2 if you have other medical conditions, especially:

• gallbladder disease; or

• cirrhosis or other liver disease.

Riboflavin is considered likely safe to use during pregnancy, but your dose needs may be different during this time. You should not use riboflavin without a doctor''s advice if you are pregnant.

Riboflavin is considered possibly safe to use while nursing, and your dose needs may be different during this time. Do not use riboflavin without a doctor''s advice if you are breast-feeding.

Do not give riboflavin to a child without medical advice.

How should I take riboflavin?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

The recommended dietary allowance of riboflavin increases with age. Follow your healthcare provider''s instructions. You may also consult the Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health, or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Nutrient Database (formerly "Recommended Daily Allowances") listings for more information.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking riboflavin?

Follow your healthcare provider''s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Riboflavin side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor if you have diarrhea or increased urination. These could be signs that you are using too much riboflavin.

Riboflavin may cause your urine to turn a yellow-orange color, but this is usually not a harmful side effect.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect riboflavin?

Other drugs may interact with riboflavin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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