Thiamine (Vitamin B1)

Products

Thiamine (vitamin B1) is commercially available in tablet form and as a solution for injection (e.g., Benerva, Neurorubin, generics), among others. It is a component of numerous combination preparations (e.g., Berocca).

Structure and properties

Thiamine (C12H17N4OS+, Mr = 265.4 g/mol) is usually present in drugs as thiamine nitrate or thiamine hydrochloride. Thiamine hydrochloride, unlike nitrate, has better water solubility. Thiamine is a prodrug that is biotransformed in the body to the active thiamine pyrophosphate (thiamine diphosphate, TPP).

Effects

Thiamine (ATC A11DA01) plays an important role in carbohydrate metabolism and the nervous system as a cofactor (coenzyme) of enzymes.

Indications

  • For the prevention and treatment of vitamin B1 deficiency, e.g., in alcoholism.
  • In diseases of the nerve cells.
  • As a dietary supplement (various applications).

Dosage

According to the professional information.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

Drug-drug interactions have been described with thiosemicarbazone, 5-fluorouracil, black tea, alcohol, sulfite-containing beverages, and antacids.

Adverse effects

Hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis have been reported with parenteral administration. Thiamine has a wide therapeutic range.