Thiamine (Vitamin B1) plays an important role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, and energy production for all cells. Thiamine is most important in the breakdown of pyruvic acid, a waste product in hard working muscles, along with lactic acid. In any situation where carbohydrates are the major energy source, or when glucose is added to the diet, thiamine requirement is increased significantly. Thiamine is essential as part of the coenzyme which is involved in the breakdown of glucose for energy.
Thiamine has effects on all tissues, the most sensitive being the nerves, stomach and heart.
Free Thiamine cannot be stored in the body, and it is rapidly absorbed from the intestine or blood, as well as from injection sites. Like all B Complex vitamins, Thiamine is water soluble, so it is rapidly absorbed and excreted from the body. It therefore requires regular supplementation, especially in hard working animals when dietary input may be insufficient.
Thiamine is found in both meat and cereal products. Small amounts are manufactured in the gut, as long as horses are not under stress.
High doses of Thiamine are reported to help calm nervous & over exciteable horses.
Clinical signs of Thiamine deficiency include fatigue, muscle weakness, loss of appetite and increased heart rate. This may be an important factor in endurance horses fed high grain diets. Many of these signs can be traced back to increased tissue levels of lactic and pyruvic acids. Nerve cells are particularly dependent on carbohydrate metabolism, and normal nerve function is greatly effected by increased levels of these acids during hard work.
Contains:
Thiamine hydrochloride (USP) 125mg/mL
Directions for Use:
Give 5 - 10mL by intramuscular injection regularly twice weekly, or as advised by a veterinary surgeon. Vitamin B1 injection can be safely used in conjunction with Tranquil Paste, for an added calming effect.
Thiamine is also available in a powder form "see Thiasal E".
