Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 17, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Thiamilate
Available Dosage Forms:
- Tablet
- Solution
Therapeutic Class: Nutritive Agent
Pharmacologic Class: Vitamin B (class)
Uses for thiamine
Vitamins are compounds that you must have for growth and health. They are needed in small amounts only and are usually available in the foods that you eat. Thiamine (vitamin B 1) is needed for the breakdown of carbohydrates.
Some conditions may increase your need for thiamine. These include:
- Alcoholism
- Burns
- Diarrhea (continuing)
- Fever (continuing)
- Illness (continuing)
- Intestinal disease
- Liver disease
- Overactive thyroid
- Stress (continuing)
- Surgical removal of stomach
Also, the following groups of people may have a deficiency of thiamine:
- Patients using an artificial kidney (on hemodialysis)
- Individuals who do heavy manual labor on a daily basis
Increased need for thiamine should be determined by your health care professional.
Lack of thiamine may lead to a condition called beriberi. Signs of beriberi include loss of appetite, constipation, muscle weakness, pain or tingling in arms or legs, and possible swelling of feet or lower legs. In addition, if severe, lack of thiamine may cause mental depression, memory problems, weakness, shortness of breath, and fast heartbeat. Your health care professional may treat this by prescribing thiamine for you.
Thiamine may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care professional.
Claims that thiamine is effective for treatment of skin problems, chronic diarrhea, tiredness, mental problems, multiple sclerosis, nerve problems, and ulcerative colitis (a disease of the intestines), or as an insect repellant or to stimulate appetite have not been proven.
Injectable thiamine is administered only by or under the supervision of your health care professional. Other forms of thiamine are available without a prescription.
Importance of Diet
For good health, it is important that you eat a balanced and varied diet. Follow carefully any diet program your health care professional may recommend. For your specific dietary vitamin and/or mineral ...
