Vitamin B 6 Depletion in Women Using Oral Contraceptives as Determined by Erythrocyte Glutamic-Pyruvic Transaminase Activities 1

Abstract

Summary

Erythrocyte glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (EGPT) activities were measured, with and without stimulation by pyridoxal phosphate (PALPO) in vitro, in 11 control females and in 13 females using oral contraceptives. In women taking oral contraceptives, mean basal EGPT activity was significantly lower (p<.02) and percentage of stimulation by PALPO was significantly greater (p<.001) than in controls. Mean values of EGPT activity with PALPO stimulation were not significantly different between the two groups. It would appear that biochemical evidence of vitamin B₆ depletion is elicited by the use of oral contraceptives. Further evidence is provided in support of the conclusion that PALPO stimulation of EGPT activity in vitro is a valid criterion of vitamin B₆ status.