Benphothiamine
Benphothiamine is a synthetic, fat-soluble form of thiamine (vitamin B1) designed to improve bioavailability compared to standard water-soluble thiamine, acting as a cofactor in carbohydrate metabolism.
Benphothiamine is a lipid-soluble form of vitamin B1 with enhanced absorption used for thiamine supplementation and nerve support.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- A11DA03
- RxNorm
- 18891
- Generic
- Benphothiamine
- Class
- atc-a11
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
10 groupspregnancy
first trimesteruse only if clearly needed
use only under healthcare provider supervision when benefits outweigh potential risks
regular prenatal checkups
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteruse only if clearly needed
use only under healthcare provider supervision when benefits outweigh potential risks
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
third trimesteruse only if clearly needed
use only under healthcare provider supervision when benefits outweigh potential risks
regular prenatal checkups
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingno adjustment needed
generally considered safe during breastfeeding as thiamine passes into breast milk
infant monitoring for normal growth and development
geriatric
elderlyno adjustment needed for healthy elderly
may be beneficial for elderly with thiamine deficiency or decreased absorption
monitor renal function periodically
pediatric_age
children under 12dose based on weight and age
use only under pediatric supervision for confirmed thiamine deficiency
monitor growth and development
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild renal impairmentno adjustment needed
thiamine is water soluble and typically excreted
standard monitoring
renal_impairment
severe renal impairmentconsider reduced dose or extended dosing interval
use with caution in dialysis patients
monitor thiamine levels and renal function
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild hepatic impairmentno adjustment needed
may be used for thiamine deficiency associated with liver disease
standard monitoring
hepatic_impairment
severe hepatic impairmentuse with caution
use only under medical supervision in severe liver disease
monitor liver function tests and thiamine levels
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information in Japan
Drug class
Vitamin B1 analog classification
Common uses
Primary therapeutic indications
Available formulations
Dosage form availability
Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency, including conditions such as beriberi, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, and peripheral neuropathy. May also be used as a supplement in conditions with increased thiamine requirements or impaired absorption.
As a thiamine derivative, benphothiamine acts as a coenzyme (thiamine pyrophosphate) in key metabolic pathways, particularly those involved in carbohydrate metabolism and energy production. Its lipophilic nature allows for better cellular penetration and retention compared to conventional thiamine.
Generally well-tolerated, though allergic reactions are possible. Should be used under medical supervision, particularly in patients with alcoholism or severe malnutrition. Oral administration is the typical route; efficacy compared to injectable thiamine in acute deficiency states may vary.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy