Lysine + Thiamine + Vitamin B12 + Vitamin B3 + Vitamin B6

Usage

This combination is prescribed for preventing and treating deficiencies in lysine and B vitamins (thiamine (B1), B12, B3 (niacin), and B6 (pyridoxine)). It is particularly beneficial for individuals with inadequate dietary intake, specific illnesses, alcoholism, or during pregnancy and lactation. It also supports vegetarians and vegans nutritionally.

Pharmacological Classification: Vitamin Supplement/Nutritional Supplement

Mechanism of Action: This combination provides essential B vitamins and the amino acid lysine. These nutrients are vital for various metabolic processes, including energy production, DNA/RNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, neurological function, and protein synthesis.

Alternate Names

Vitamin B Complex with Lysine; Lysine-B Complex

How It Works

Pharmacodynamics: B vitamins act as coenzymes in numerous metabolic pathways, including carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism. Lysine is essential for protein synthesis, collagen formation, and calcium absorption.

Pharmacokinetics:

• Thiamine (B1): Absorbed in the small intestine, metabolized in the liver, and excreted renally.
• Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): Requires intrinsic factor for absorption in the ileum, stored in the liver, and excreted primarily in bile.
• Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Readily absorbed from the GI tract, converted to active forms (NAD, NADP) in the liver, and excreted renally.
• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Absorbed in the jejunum, metabolized in the liver to pyridoxal 5’-phosphate (PLP), its active form, and excreted renally.
• Lysine: Absorbed in the small intestine via active transport, metabolized in various tissues, and minimally excreted unchanged in urine.

Mode of Action: B vitamins function as coenzymes in various enzymatic reactions. Thiamine is vital for carbohydrate metabolism, particularly in the decarboxylation of pyruvate and alpha-ketoglutarate. Vitamin B12 is essential for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation. Niacin, in its active forms (NAD and NADP), participates in redox reactions. Vitamin B6 is crucial for amino acid metabolism, including transamination and decarboxylation reactions. Lysine participates in protein synthesis and various metabolic functions.

Dosage

Dosage is individualized and based on daily recommended intake for each nutrient. Consulting a doctor is crucial, especially for specific populations.

Standard Dosage

Adults: Dosage varies based on individual needs and deficiencies. A general guideline, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is as follows (per day):

• Thiamine (B1): 1.2 mg (men), 1.1 mg (women)
• Vitamin B3 (Niacin): 16 mg NE (men), 14 mg NE (women)
• Vitamin B6: 1.3 mg
• Vitamin B12: 2.4 mcg
• Lysine: 1-3 grams (often used in higher doses for specific conditions, but requires medical supervision)

Children: Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.

Special Cases:

• Elderly Patients: May require higher doses of some B vitamins due to decreased absorption.
• Patients with Renal Impairment: Dose adjustments may be necessary.
• Patients with Hepatic Dysfunction: Dose adjustments may be necessary.
• Patients with Comorbid Conditions: Dosage needs individualization.

Clinical Use Cases

There isn’t sufficient evidence to support specific dosing recommendations for this combination in clinical settings like intubation, surgical procedures, mechanical ventilation, ICU use, or emergency situations.

Dosage Adjustments

Modifications are necessary for renal/hepatic dysfunction, metabolic disorders, or genetic polymorphisms impacting drug metabolism.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

While generally safe, high doses of individual components may cause side effects like gastrointestinal upset (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), skin flushing (niacin), and nerve damage (vitamin B6 in extremely high doses).

Rare but Serious Side Effects

Allergic reactions are possible.

Long-Term Effects

Long-term, excessively high doses of individual components can lead to specific complications.

Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR)

Clinically significant ADRs are rare with typical doses but may occur with excessive intake of individual components.

Contraindications

No absolute contraindications exist for this combination at recommended doses. However, pre-existing conditions should be considered.

Drug Interactions

Potential interactions exist between individual components and other medications, particularly for niacin and vitamin B6.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding at recommended doses. However, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for dosage adjustments and monitoring.

Drug Profile Summary

• Mechanism of Action: Provides essential B vitamins and lysine for various metabolic processes.
• Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated at recommended doses; high doses may cause GI upset, flushing, or nerve damage (B6).
• Contraindications: Few contraindications at normal doses.
• Drug Interactions: Potential interactions exist, particularly with niacin and vitamin B6.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Generally safe at recommended doses.
• Dosage: Individualized based on needs; general guidelines are provided.

Popular Combinations

This combination is often used as a standalone supplement.

Precautions

Standard precautions include assessing for allergies and pre-existing conditions. Specific considerations apply to pregnant/breastfeeding women, children, and the elderly.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Lysine + Thiamine + Vitamin B12 + Vitamin B3 + Vitamin B6?

A: Dosage is individualized. General adult daily intake recommendations are: Thiamine: 1.2 mg (men), 1.1 mg (women); Vitamin B3: 16 mg NE (men), 14 mg NE (women); Vitamin B6: 1.3 mg; Vitamin B12: 2.4 mcg; Lysine: 1-3 grams. Pediatric and special population dosing requires physician consultation.

Q2: What are the primary uses of this combination?

A: Preventing and treating deficiencies in lysine and vitamins B1, B3, B6, and B12.

Q3: Are there any specific dietary recommendations when taking this supplement?

A: A balanced diet is always recommended. This combination can supplement nutritional gaps, but doesn’t replace a healthy diet.

Q4: Can this combination be used in patients with diabetes?

A: While B vitamins are important for glucose metabolism, individual patient assessment is necessary.

Q5: Does this supplement interact with any medications?

A: Niacin and Vitamin B6 can interact with certain medications. Disclose all medications to your doctor.

Q6: Are there any long-term effects of taking this combination?

A: Long-term use at recommended doses is generally safe. However, excessive intake of certain components can have adverse effects.

Q7: Is this supplement safe for vegetarians and vegans?

A: Yes, it is often recommended for these groups to ensure adequate B vitamin and lysine intake.

Q8: How should this supplement be stored?

A: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as recommended for most vitamin supplements.

Q9: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take the missed dose as soon as remembered, unless it is close to the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose.