Thiamine

Uses of Thiamine

Vitamin B1/Thiamine is usually given parenterally to prevent Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.

How Thiamine Works

Thiamine is an essential enzyme that form thiamine pyrophosphate when combines with ATP and involves in the carbohydrate metabolism

Side Effects of Thiamine

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 Thiamine may actually reverse the onset of early diabetic kidney disease.

Alcohol Safe

There is no known harmful interaction between Thiamine and alcohol and in fact, alcoholic patients were given Thiamine intravenously because they may have reduced absorption of Thiamine.

Pregnancy Safe If Prescribed

Thiamine 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

Thiamine has no effect on the ability to drive.

Liver Safe If Prescribed

Thiamine is given to alcoholic patients to prevent the development of Wernicke encephalopathy.

Lactation Safe If Prescribed

Thiamine is safe to use during lactation. Limited human data suggests that Thiamine does not represent a significant risk to the baby and in fact, the requirements for it are increased during lactation period.

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).