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Home > Medicines & Drugs > Vitamin B complex

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Vitamin B complex

  • Vitamin B complex is used in vitamin B deficiency and to prevent deficiency from occurring in people whose diet is inadequate.
  • It is unlikely to cause any side effects.

About vitamin B complex

Type of medicineVitamin
Used forVitamin B deficiency
Also calledVitamin B Compound
Vitamin B Compound Strong
Vigranon B®
Available asTablets and syrup

Vitamin B complex is a combination of three essential vitamins and some non-essential ones from the vitamin B group. The three main vitamins are vitamin B1 (also known as thiamine), vitamin B2 (also known as riboflavin) and nicotinamide (sometimes referred to as vitamin B3). Other B vitamins include aminobenzoic acid, biotin, choline, inositol, and pantothenic acid (or panthenol).

Vitamin B1 is used by the body to produce energy, strong muscles and a healthy nervous system. The best natural sources are cereals, nuts, peas, beans, yeast and pork. Other meats and fish contain good amounts of vitamin B1 also.

Vitamin B2 is critical to the production of body energy and has antioxidant qualities. The best natural sources are found in milk, liver, kidneys, fish, eggs, yeast, cheese and leafy green vegetables such as broccoli and spinach.

Nicotinamide (vitamin B3) is essential for a healthy skin and nervous system. The best natural sources are found in meat, beans, wholemeal cereals, potatoes, yeast and fish.

Before taking vitamin B complex

Before taking vitamin B complex make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had a stomach ulcer.
  • If you have diabetes, gout or liver problems.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take vitamin B complex

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
  • Swallow the tablets whole. Do not chew or crush them.
  • Try to take vitamin B complex at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
  • If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Can vitamin B complex cause problems?

Vitamin B complex is unlikely to cause any side-effects. If however you do experience any worrying symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store vitamin B complex

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • British National Formulary; 55th Edition (March 2008) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2008DocID:
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dils2464		Last Reviewed:
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