Skip to content
Back to Headaches & Migraines

ingestible · for headaches & migraines

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

Schoenen et al. 1998 RCT (Neurology, PMID 9484373) - 55 migraine patients taking 400 mg/day riboflavin for 3 months had 50% reduction in migraine frequency versus 15% in placebo group (p = 0.05). Considered a first-line preventive in European migraine guidelines.$8-$20/month for standalone riboflavin.

How to use

Take 400 mg/day of riboflavin (vitamin B2) with food. This is a pharmacological dose, far above dietary intake but well tolerated. Take in the morning as it may produce fluorescent yellow-green urine (harmless). Use consistently for prevention.

How it works

Riboflavin is essential for mitochondrial electron transport (Complex I and II of the respiratory chain). Migraine brains show impaired mitochondrial energy metabolism between attacks - riboflavin supplementation corrects this deficit, possibly reducing neuronal excitability and susceptibility to cortical spreading depression.

Where to buy

Solgar B-Complex 100 ($15-$25), NOW Foods Riboflavin 100mg tablets ($8-$12/100 tablets), Thorne B-Complex #12 - widely available at pharmacies and health food stores.

Typical cost: $8-$20/month for standalone riboflavin.

Safety notes

Very well tolerated. The only common side effect is bright yellow-orange urine (harmless - riboflavin is water-soluble and the excess is excreted). Extremely high doses are not beneficial - stick to 400 mg/day. Safe in pregnancy at standard doses.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

Clinical source

Schoenen et al. 1998 - Neurology (PMID 9484373)

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.