Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) Deficiency

Thiamine (vitamin B1) is the first vitamin identified and a critical cofactor in cellular energy metabolism, nerve conduction, and myelin maintenance. Vitamin B1 deficiency is a common, underrecognized cause of multisystem illness that spans cardiovascular, neurologic, and metabolic complications across inpatient and outpatient settings, including dry and wet beriberi and the potentially life-threatening neurologic manifestations of Wernicke encephalopathy and Wernicke Korsakoff syndrome. This activity reviews the dietary sources of thiamine, mechanisms of deficiency, and populations at highest risk, including individuals with chronic alcohol use disorder, malnutrition, bariatric surgery, diuretic use, and increased metabolic demand. This course also explores the recognition of early and advanced clinical features of thiamine deficiency, relevant laboratory and imaging findings, and evidence-based treatment strategies. Participants will also gain an understanding of empiric parenteral thiamine in at-risk patients, appropriate dosing regimens, and prevention during refeeding or alcohol withdrawal. This activity for healthcare professionals is designed to enhance the learner’s competence in identifying vitamin B1 deficiency, performing the recommended evaluation, and implementing an appropriate interprofessional approach to manage this condition to reduce morbidity and mortality and improve neurologic and cardiovascular outcomes through informed, patient-centered care.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.