Vitamin B1
Uses of Vitamin B1
Vitamin B1/Thiamine is usually given parenterally to prevent Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.
How Vitamin B1 Works
Thiamine is an essential enzyme that form thiamine pyrophosphate when combines with ATP and involves in the carbohydrate metabolism
Side Effects of Vitamin B1
Warm sensation, Tingling, Pruritus and urticaria, Pain, Respiratory distress, Angioedema, Gastrointestinal bleeding, Transient vasodilation and hypotension, Vascular collapse, Anaphylactic shock
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
Studies found that high doses of Vitamin B1 may actually reverse the onset of early diabetic kidney disease.
Alcohol Safe
There is no known harmful interaction between Vitamin B1 and alcohol and in fact, alcoholic patients were given Vitamin B1 intravenously because they may have reduced absorption of Vitamin B1.
Pregnancy Safe If Prescribed
Vitamin B1 may be safe to use during pregnancy. Controlled studies in women fail to demonstrate a risk to the foetus in the 1st trimester (and there is no evidence of a risk in later trimesters), and the possibility of foetal harm remains unknown.
Driving Generally Safe
Vitamin B1 has no effect on the ability to drive.
Liver Safe If Prescribed
Vitamin B1 is given to alcoholic patients to prevent the development of Wernicke encephalopathy.
Lactation Safe If Prescribed
Vitamin B1 is safe to use during lactation. Limited human data suggests that Vitamin B1 does not represent a significant risk to the baby and in fact, the requirements for it are increased during lactation period.
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
