Thiamine

About Thiamine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as vitamins.

Thiamine (vitamin B1) is useful in deficiencies of B vitamins, usually due to alcoholism, poor diet or starvation. The best natural sources are in all plant and animal foods but good sources are in brown rice, whole grains, seafood and legumes (pulses).

Symptoms of thiamine deficiency are fatigue, irritability, loss of appetite and disturbed sleep.

Signs of severe thiamine deficiency are confusion, memory loss, depression, abdominal pain, constipation, tingling or burning in the legs, cramp and tenderness in the calf muscles, lack of coordination and palpitations.

Thiamine is available in tablet and injection form.

It is also sometimes known as: Benerva. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Thiamine

Before taking thiamine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Thiamine

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside thiamine.

Can Thiamine cause problems?

This medicine is unlikely to cause any side effects. If however, you experience any worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

How to store Thiamine

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 25/09/2002