Vitamin B1

Vitamin B1 or thiamine is an essential nutrient, and the intake of thiamine is required by our bodies to function properly. When taken orally, vitamin B1 gets absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract. There are different forms of thiamine, like free thiamine found in food becomes the active form thiamine pyrophosphate, also known as thiamine diphosphate, once it enters the human body. Thiamine works to ensure proper digestion of carbohydrates and the use of energy. Thiamine pyrophosphate is a coenzyme for the enzyme erythrocyte transketolase, which is part of glucose metabolism. It also helps to ensure our nervous system works correctly. When someone has a low thiamine status, thiamine supplementation works by replacing the low levels. If you have high thiamine levels, it is removed through urine excretion because vitamin B1 is water-soluble.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using vitamin B1. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of vitamin B1:

• The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of vitamin B1 for adult males is 1.2 mg daily, and for adult females it is 1.1 mg daily. For children, it depends on their age. Ask your healthcare provider what dose is best for you.
• Vitamin B1 supplements can be taken by mouth, by subcutaneous injection, or intravenously (IV). Your healthcare professional will know what type of vitamin B1 supplement is best for you based on your vitamin B1 levels.
• Signs and symptoms of vitamin B1 deficiency include memory loss, fatigue, loss of appetite, peripheral neuropathy, and weight loss. If thiamine deficiency is not treated, it may lead to serious complications such as loss of coordination (ataxia), memory loss, muscle weakness, Wernicke encephalopathy, and cognitive impairment.
• Risk factors for thiamine deficiency include alcohol use disorder (chronic alcoholism), liver disorder, bariatric surgery, high-dose diuretics, poor diet, anorexia, and hemodialysis.

The most common side effects of vitamin B1 include:

• Nausea.
• Headache.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using vitamin B1. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reaction. Signs include hives, rash, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue.

These are not all of the possible side effects of vitamin B1. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting vitamin B1, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Previous allergic reactions to dietary supplements, food, and any medications.

Allergic reaction to any ingredients in vitamin B1 dietary supplements.

You will start to feel better within a couple of weeks of consistently taking vitamin B1 supplements. It’s important to continue taking vitamin B1 even if you don’t notice a difference, or as advised by your healthcare professional.

When vitamin B1 is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Trimethoprim.
• Betel nut.
• Horsetail.

Vitamin B1 is most commonly available as 100 mg per tablet, but other doses are also available, such as 150 mg, 250 mg, 300 mg, and 500 mg per tablet.

Store vitamin B1 at room temperature, keep away from children and pets.

Multiple pharmaceutical companies manufacture vitamin B1 (thiamine) dietary supplements.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is the generic version. Vitamin B1 is often taken with other B vitamins like vitamin B2 (riboflavin), and is found in many vitamin B complex and multivitamin products with vitamin C and magnesium.

Although there are no withdrawal effects associated with vitamin B1, it should not be stopped without talking to your healthcare professional, as it may be treating your low levels of vitamin B1.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is likely safe in pregnancy when it is part of your normal diet. The RDA during pregnancy is 1.4 mg daily. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is likely safe in breastfeeding when it is part of your normal diet. The RDA during lactation is 1.4 mg daily. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.