Vitamin B1 / Thiamine

Description

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) is an essential water-soluble nutrient that plays a key r

ole in converting food into energy, supporting healthy nerve function, and maintaining the proper functioning of the heart, muscles, and brain. It is commonly used to correct thiamine deficiency and to treat beriberi, a condition that can lead to extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, nerve inflammation, coordination problems, and in severe cases, heart complications. Taking Vitamin B1 as directed by your doctor helps restore normal levels and prevents complications related to prolonged deficiency. It is important not to exceed the prescribed amount, as the correct dose ensures safe and effective treatment. Before starting Vitamin B1, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any existing medical conditions, so the supplement can be tailored to your health needs and used safely.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

is used in the treatment and prevention of vitamin B1 deficiency.
For the treatment of beriberi, which is characterized by weakness, fatigue and nerve damage due to vitamin B1 deficiency in the body.

Contraindications

When should one not use Vitamin B1 / Thiamine

If you are allergic to vitamin B1.

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Nausea or stomach upset
Mild skin rash or itching
Sweating
Warmth or flushing of the skin
Headache
Irritability or restlessness

Precautions and Warnings

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You are taking any other supplements or medications.
Vitamin supplements are intended to supplement the diet of people and must not be a substitute for a well-balanced, varied diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, is required for optimal human body function. It is a water-soluble vitamin that cannot be stored in the body and must be supplied by the diet regularly.
Vitamin B1 is essential for the breakdown of carbohydrates into energy, which the body requires to perform its activities.
It improves cardiovascular function by supporting healthy blood flow and helping in the formation of red blood cells.
It is required for the proper functioning of the nervous system. It promotes nerve cell health and the generation of nerve impulses.
It is essential for brain function and mental skills. It promotes memory and learning by aiding in the production of neurotransmitters, which are essential for brain function.
Vitamin B1 may play a role in maintaining eye health. It is involved in glucose metabolism in the retina and may help protect against certain eye conditions.
It is important for digestive health. It helps stimulate the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which aids in the breakdown of food and the absorption of nutrients.

Dosage

Overdose

If you think you took too much of the medicine, call the emergency helpline or contact your healthcare provider immediately in case of an overdose.

Missed a Dose

It is advisable to take vitamin B1 as prescribed. After missing a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. But, if the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and continue the regular do...

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Ravindra Ghongade

B. Pharm

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Which foods are a great source of vitamin B1?

A: Good sources of Vitamin B1 include whole grains, fortified cereals, beans, nuts, pork, and seafood. Some vegetables, such as potatoes, peas, and spinach, also contain vitamin B1.

Q: Are there side effects associated with vitamin B1?

The risk of side effects from vitamin B1 is significantly lower when taken as prescribed. In some cases, one may experience headaches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, itching and swelling.

Q: What disease does vitamin B1 prevent?

Vitamin B1 is used in the treatment and prevention of beriberi and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, both of which are caused by vitamin B1 deficiency.

References

Last Updated on: 25 Nov 2025 | 01:02 AM (IST)

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The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.