Ginkgotoxin Induced Seizure Caused by Vitamin B6 Deficiency

J Epilepsy Res. 2015 Dec 31;5(2):104-6. doi: 10.14581/jer.15018. eCollection 2015 Dec.

Abstract

Although ginkgo is commonly used as an alternative treatment for memory loss, Alzheimer's dementia and peripheral circulatory disturbances, it is also known to cause neuronal symptoms due to ginkgotoxin (4'-methoxypyridoxine or B6 antivitamin). We experienced a case of a 51-year-old female patient with generalized tonic clonic seizure and postictal confusion after eating large amounts of ginkgo nuts. Blood vitamin B6 level was decreased. After conservative treatment and pyridoxine medication, her mental symptoms were resolved completely and no seizures recurred.

Keywords: Ginkgotoxin; Seizure; Vitamin B6 deficiency.

Publication types

  • Case Reports