Evidence supporting the use of: Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
For the health condition: Confusion
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4
Thiamine (Vitamin B1) is scientifically validated for use in treating confusion, particularly when the confusion is due to thiamine deficiency or related conditions. Thiamine deficiency can lead to neurological disorders such as Wernicke's encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome, which classically present with confusion, memory impairment, and other mental status changes. These conditions are most often seen in chronic alcohol misuse, malnutrition, or conditions causing malabsorption.
Numerous clinical studies and case reports have shown that prompt administration of thiamine can reverse or significantly improve confusion and other neurological symptoms in affected patients. Guidelines from organizations such as the European Federation of Neurological Societies and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommend thiamine supplementation in patients at risk for or exhibiting symptoms of Wernicke's encephalopathy. The diagnosis is primarily clinical, and thiamine is often given empirically due to the potential for irreversible brain damage if treatment is delayed.
However, for confusion due to causes other than thiamine deficiency, the evidence for thiamine supplementation is lacking. In summary, there is strong scientific evidence (rating 4/5) for the use of thiamine in treating confusion secondary to deficiency, but not for confusion from unrelated causes.
Other health conditions supported by Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
AlcoholismAlzheimer's Disease
Appetite (deficient)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cirrhosis of the Liver
Confusion
Congestive Heart Failure
Depression
Diabetes
Energy (lack of)
Fatigue
Heart (weakness)