← Search & browse all drugs
ALIMENTARY TRACT AND METABOLISM › VITAMINS › VITAMIN B1, PLAIN AND IN COMBINATION WITH VITAMIN B6 AND B12 › Vitamin B1, plain
benfotiamine
A11DA03
Forms & Strengths
- Oral capsules: 80 mg, 150 mg, 300 mg
- Oral tablets: 40 mg, 50 mg, 150 mg
Adult Dosing
- Diabetic neuropathy: 150 mg to 300 mg orally 2 to 3 times daily
- General thiamine supplementation: 40 mg to 150 mg orally once daily
Pediatric Dosing
- Safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients; use not routinely recommended
Indications
- Treatment and prevention of benfotiamine/thiamine deficiency
- Management of diabetic neuropathy and associated neuropathic pain
- Support of cellular health in states of high oxidative stress
Mechanism of Action
- Synthetic S-acyl derivative of thiamine (vitamin B1) with high lipid solubility
- Crosses cell membranes more efficiently than water-soluble thiamine
- Intracellularly dephosphorylated to active thiamine pyrophosphate
- Inhibits biochemical pathways of hyperglycemia-induced tissue damage (hexosamine pathway, AGE formation, DAG-PKC pathway)
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to benfotiamine, thiamine, or any component of the formulation
Adverse Reactions
- Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, abdominal discomfort)
- Allergic skin reactions (rash, pruritus)
- Dizziness or headache (rare)
Drug Interactions
- Neuromuscular blocking agents: Thiamine derivatives may enhance the effect of neuromuscular blockers (theoretical)
- Antacids: May decrease absorption of thiamine analogues
- Loop diuretics: Long-term use of furosemide may increase excretion of thiamine
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use