B1/B Complex
 

My husbands doctor has suggested he take a B1 supplement, which I presume is Benfotiamine. How much should he take daily?

He's also suggested B6 and a B Complex.

I'm hesitating on the B6 as from what I have read it can make the neuropathy worse?

Also is a B complex the same as the B1 and B6 combined?

Thank you, Linda

A B complex has much more than B1 and B6. Some of the B's work to activate each other in body.

B2 activates B6...to pyridoxal.

I don't see why a B6 in addition to a Complex is necessary.

This formula is quite good, and many over the years have used it with success. It has been reformulated to have active B's in it, which do not appear in most others. It is a modern trend to add these now.

http://www.amazon.com/Jarrow-Formula.../dp/B0016003Z0

This is also at iherb I believe...but not many local outlets carry it yet.

B6 pyridoxine may build up in people who do not properly activate it to P5P... (pyridoxal). It is this that may be the culprit in high B6 levels...and the symptoms that arise. Pyridoxal is taken up by muscle quickly and doesn't remain in the serum for long.

I would personally suggest against taking a B6 along with the B-complex. I got tested and my B6 levels were double the upper serum limit and I was only taking 3mg of B6 in a B-complex. I now avoid B6 like the plague. That's just my experience. What is the cause of your husband's neuropathy?

If the doctor suggests B6 along with the B-complex, I'd have him check your husband's serum levels periodically. Again, just from personal experience.

Thank you both for your responses.

So would the B Complex have the right amount of B1 in it, so that's all he would take?

Sorry, I'm a bit confused with all these B vitamins:winky:

Linda

you could start just the benfotiamine... 300mg a day.

See what happens...

Did you get a B12 and/or B6 tests run to see where you are before you take either supplement.

He currently takes additional B12 (the good kind!) and his levels are good - in fact they always have been. I'm not sure if his B6 was ever tested.

He has idiopathic small and large fibre PN affecting feet and hands.

His pain levels have increased dramatically within the last year (he's had this for about 8 years now), and along with a medication change, his doctor has now suggested the B1/B6/B Complex.

Maybe we'll just try the benfotiamine and go from there.

Thanks again, Linda