A shortage of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, has sparked concern among tuberculosis (TB) patients and healthcare providers. The supplement is routinely prescribed alongside anti-TB medication to prevent nerve-related side effects.
Shortage Hits Healthcare Institutes
Pyridoxine, an essential water-soluble nutrient required for protein metabolism, red blood cell production, and proper nervous system function, has been reported in short supply across healthcare institutes in the district. It is routinely provided to TB patients undergoing treatment with isoniazid to help prevent peripheral neuropathy, a condition causing tingling, numbness, and pain in the hands and feet.
Rising TB Burden in Kangra
The shortage comes at a time when Kangra continues to report a significant TB burden. According to Health Department data, the district registered 2,807 tuberculosis patients during 2025. In 2026, as of May, 1,180 new TB cases have already been identified, highlighting the continued need for uninterrupted treatment support and essential medicines.
Authorities Assure Restoration
District health authorities have assured that steps are being taken to restore supply. Kangra District Programme Officer for TB Elimination Dr. Rajesh Kumar Sood said that TB medicines are supplied by the Centre and sometimes delays occur. “Pyridoxine is supplied by the Centre on a quarterly basis and the current shortage has occurred due to a delay in the latest consignment,” said Dr. Sood. He clarified that pyridoxine is a supplementary medicine required only by certain categories of TB patients, not by every patient undergoing treatment.
Local Procurement Underway
For immediate requirement, a local procurement of 10,000 pyridoxine tablets is under process and could take up to a week. In addition, a consignment of one lakh tablets is expected to reach the district within the next week, which will help normalise supplies across healthcare institutions.
Concerns Over Complications
Patients and healthcare workers have expressed concern that the absence of pyridoxine could increase the risk of treatment-related complications, particularly among vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, malnourished individuals, people living with diabetes, and patients with HIV. Health authorities maintained that anti-TB medicines remain available and treatment services continue without interruption.
Public Health Experts Weigh In
Public health experts stress that timely availability of both anti-TB drugs and supportive medications is crucial for successful treatment outcomes and for preventing patients from discontinuing therapy.
