Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B1 (fursultiamine)
For the health condition: Wasting

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B1 (in the form of fursultiamine) is sometimes used to support or treat wasting (also known as cachexia or muscle wasting), particularly in the context of malnutrition, chronic illness, or specific deficiency states. The scientific evidence supporting this use is limited but somewhat substantiated in situations where thiamine deficiency is contributing to the wasting process. Thiamine (vitamin B1) is essential for carbohydrate metabolism and energy production. Deficiency can lead to conditions like beriberi, which includes muscle wasting, weakness, and neurologic symptoms.

Fursultiamine is a derivative of thiamine designed for better absorption and bioavailability. It is used in Japan and some other countries to treat thiamine deficiency and associated symptoms. In cases where wasting is due to thiamine deficiency (such as in chronic alcoholism, certain GI disorders, or severe malnutrition), supplementation can reverse symptoms and improve muscle function. However, for wasting due to other causes (e.g., cancer cachexia, advanced heart failure), there is limited direct evidence that thiamine or its derivatives meaningfully reverse or halt muscle wasting if there is no underlying deficiency.

Therefore, the use of fursultiamine for wasting is scientifically supported when thiamine deficiency is present, but not broadly validated for all forms of wasting. The overall evidence is limited, leading to a moderate-low rating.

More about Vitamin B1 (fursultiamine)
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