Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, is a type of vitamin B. Vitamin B1 is an essential nutrient that has an important role in the growth, development, and function of cells. Thiamine is sometimes called an anti-stress vitamin because it can make the immune system stronger. Only a small amount of thiamine is stored in the liver, so it is important to have a daily intake of food sources rich in thiamine.
Vitamin B1 can be found in various food products, such as whole grains (like bread), breakfast cereals, infant formulas, nuts, beans, fish, and meats. Vitamin B1 is a water-soluble vitamin and can be found alone or as a common ingredient in B complex vitamins, which also contain other B vitamins. This vitamin can be used in people who have low thiamine levels due to health conditions where thiamine is deficient, such as beriberi (severe thiamine deficiency) and nerve inflammation associated with pellagra (severe niacin, or vitamin B3, deficiency) or pregnancy. Thiamine is available over-the-counter in a variety of formulations.
To prevent and treat thiamine deficiency (not enough thiamine in the body)
To treat beriberi, a more severe thiamine deficiency that causes muscle loss and nerve problems. Beriberi is rare in the United States.
To prevent and treat a brain condition due to low thiamine levels called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which is often seen in people with alcohol use disorder
To lower the risk of developing cataracts (clouding of the lens of the eye)
To reduce kidney damage in people with diabetes
To help menstrual cramps
It is sometimes used for other conditions, such as heart disease, but is not considered to be effective
Therapeutic Classes:
Vitamins; B vitamins
Forms:
Tablet
Capsule/soft gel
Liquid
Lozenges
Injectable
In addition to availability as a single-ingredient B1 vitamin, thiamine can also be found in multivitamins and B complex vitamins.
How it’s taken:
By mouth
Injection (for severe deficiencies)
What is Thiamine Mononitrate used for?
Thiamine can be used to prevent or treat vitamin B1 deficiencies due to various causes.
Key takeaways
Take thiamine as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not take more than prescribed.
Follow any dietary changes recommended by your healthcare provider.
Be sure your doctor knows about all your medical conditions and all the medications you take, especially if you take Lasix (furosemide), Dilantin (phenytoin), or Lanoxin (digoxin).
What form(s) does Thiamine Mononitrate come in?
Oral tablets
50 milligrams (mg)
100 mg
250 mg
Oral capsules
100 mg
500 mg
Oral drops
Injection
Intramuscular injection 100 mg/mL
Intravenous injection 100 mg/mL
What are common Thiamine Mononitrate dosages?
Ask a healthcare provider for more information about dosing, as it is based on individual needs. The following are some general dosing guidelines.
For thiamine deficiency: 5 to 300 mg daily for one month (depending on the severity of the deficiency; people with more severe deficiencies will need higher doses)
For kidney damage in people with diabetes: 100 mg 3 times daily for 3 months
For menstrual cramps: 100 mg daily for up to 90 days
As a dietary supplement in adults: 1 to 2 mg per day (these smaller doses are found in multivitamins/B complex vitamins)
For Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome: injections (by a healthcare professional) of 5 to 200 mg once daily for two days. High doses of thiamine may improve muscle coordination and confusion, but usually do not help memory loss.
Thiamine Mononitrate images - What does Thiamine Mononitrate look like?
Thiamine Mononitrate 100 tablets bottle
Thiamine Mononitrate 100 tablets box
Thiamine Mononitrate 100mg tablet
How to take Thiamine Mononitrate
Your doctor will tell you how much and when to take your medicine. Keep all medicine out of reach and out of sight of children and pets.
You may take your medicine with or without food.
Your healthcare provider may also recommend certain dietary changes.
Measure your oral liquid drops using the enclosed marked measuring dropper.
Missing a dose is generally not a cause for concern.
What to do if you miss a dose of Thiamine Mononitrate
Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose.
You should not use two doses at the same time.
Thiamine Mononitrate contraindications - Who shouldn't take Thiamine Mononitrate?
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to thiamine (Vitamin B-1).
Thiamine Mononitrate warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you become pregnant.
Tell your doctor if you are allergic to thiamine or any ingredients in the product.
Let your healthcare provider know if you drink alcohol, if you have any medical conditions such as kidney problems (especially if you are on dialysis), or if you have problems absorbing food.
Thiamine Mononitrate interactions & what to avoid when taking Thiamine Mononitrate
Let your healthcare provider know about all the other medications you take, including prescription and OTC drugs, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.
Although thiamine is not known to interact with medications, certain drugs, such as Lasix (furosemide), Dilantin (phenytoin), or Lanoxin (digoxin), may lower thiamine levels
Thiamine Mononitrate side effects - How does Thiamine Mononitrate make you feel?
Side effects of thiamine may include:
Flushing
Itching
Weakness
Sweating
Nausea
Feeling restless
Those who receive an injection may experience some pain or discomfort around the injection site.
Serious allergic reactions may occur in rare cases. If you have symptoms of hives, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, get emergency medical help.
After receiving her doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Karen Berger, Pharm.D., has worked in both chain and independent community pharmacies. She currently works at an independent pharmacy in New Jersey. Dr. Berger enjoys helping patients understand medical conditions and medications—both in person as a pharmacist, and online as a medical writer and reviewer.
