Indications
It is indicated for supportive nutritional supplementation in conditions in which these vitamins are required. These include conditions causing depletion, or reduced absorption or bioavailability of vitamins such as gastrointestinal disorders, chronic alcoholism, febrile illness, prolonged or wasting diseases, hyperthyroidism or poorly controlled diabetes and conditions resulting in increased need for vitamins like pregnancy, severe burns, recovery from surgery. It is also used in beri-beri, peripheral neuritis, Wernicke’s encephalopathy, impaired digestion of starch and sugar due to thiamine deficiency, cheilosis, angular stomatitis, glossitis, keratitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis, photophobia and corneal vascularization.
Pharmacology
Thiamine (Vitamin B1) forms thiamine pyrophosphate by combining with adenosine triphosphate; essential coenzyme in carbohydrate metabolism.
Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is required for energy utilisation from food. It is essential for normal tissue respiration. It is also necessary for the activation of pyridoxine and conversion of tryptophan to nicotinic acid.
Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) is a water-soluble vitamin which functions in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. It is essential in Hb formation and GABA synthesis within the CNS. It also aids in the release of glycogen stored in the liver and muscles.
Dosage And Administration
Adults: 2 ml every day or alternate days intravenously or intramuscularly.
Interaction
Pyridoxine may increase the peripheral metabolism of levodopa, reducing therapeutic efficacy in patients with Parkinson’s disease.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to any of its components.
Side Effects
Adverse reactions have been reported with specific vitamins, and generally at levels substantially higher than those in Vitamin B1, B2 & B6. However, allergic and idiosyncratic reactions are possible at lower levels.
Pregnancy And Lactation
The recommended dose should not be exceeded without medical advice.
Precautions And Warnings
It should be given cautiously to patients taking levodopa as pyridoxine reduces the effect of levodopa. Hypersensitivity may develop in patients previously given thiamine, specially after repeated injections of concentrated solution; give subsequent injections with care. Discontinue drug if untoward reactions develop. Intramuscular administration may cause transient pain; when used undiluted, administer slowly.
Therapeutic Class
Specific combined vitamin preparations, Vitamin-B preparations.
Storage Conditions
Store below 25°C in a dry place, away from light.