B vitamins are low-molecular-weight food components necessary for human life. According to their physicochemical properties, vitamins of this group are classified as water-soluble.
In modern medical practice, both individual vitamins from this group and complexes are often recommended for use in various pathologies. The widespread use of these substances is due to the fact that they perform essential functions in our body, directly or indirectly participating in the metabolism of various substances.
Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
The vitamin thiamine and its active derivative, thiamine pyrophosphate, is an essential participant in the metabolism of carbohydrates in our body, facilitating the conversion of glucose into energy. For normal functioning of the body, an adult needs to receive 2-3 mg per day.
Natural sources of thiamine are legumes (peas, beans, lentils), wholemeal flour, liver, kidneys, brain, yeast.
With its deficiency, first of all, disorders occur on the part of the system most dependent on the absorption of carbohydrates - the nervous system. In addition, products of incomplete oxidation of glucose, circulating in the blood, cause negative reactions from other organs and tissues.
Hypovitaminosis of thiamine is manifested by weakness, fatigue, multiple polyneuritis - pain and impaired sensitivity in the limbs and back, as well as pain in the heart. With an extreme degree of vitamin B1 deficiency, a pathological condition occurs - beriberi, manifested by extremely pronounced symptoms of damage to all organs and systems.
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
Riboflavin is a precursor of two enzymes, FAD and FMN, which are essential for tissue respiration. These substances are intermediate participants in the transfer of electrons in the respiratory chain and other energy reactions. The substance itself has a bright yellow color and is sometimes used as a dye in powders for making broth. The daily requirement is 2-4 mg. With a deficiency, inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes, seizures in the corners of the mouth, and general muscle weakness occur.
Natural sources are egg yolks, wholemeal flour and baked goods, and yeast.
Vitamin PP (nicotinamide)
Nicotinamide is a precursor to two enzymes - NAD and NADP, which actively participate in redox reactions by transferring electrons. A deficiency of this substance is called pellagra.
The pathological condition is manifested by symmetrical dermatitis on open areas of the skin, disruption of the gastrointestinal tract, in particular diarrhea, as well as weakness, fatigue, decreased memory and attention.
Natural sources of this substance are cereals, meat, potatoes, liver, and kidneys. The daily requirement is approximately 15-25 mg.
B vitamins – role in the body
When answering the question of why B vitamins are useful, we should recall what functions they perform. These compounds act as enzyme activators; without them, important biological reactions cannot occur.
B vitamins:
- help absorb micro- and macroelements;
- come to the aid of the immune system;
- participate in the synthesis of protein, DNA, RNA and cell division;
- improve the condition of skin and hair;
- maintain hormonal balance;
- protect the body from anemia;
- help cope with stress and strain;
- support the functioning of the digestive, nervous, and cardiovascular systems.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
Pyridoxine is involved in the metabolic processes of decarboxylation and transamination of amino acids, plays a critical role in ensuring the functioning of the central nervous system, ensuring the exchange of dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and GABA. Plays a role in the synthesis of hemoglobin.
Most often, a deficiency of this substance develops in people who abuse alcohol - due to increased costs and impaired absorption of it from food. In the body of a healthy person, a significant contribution to meeting the need for pyridoxine is made by the synthesis of pyridoxine by intestinal microflora.
Natural sources of vitamin B6 are legumes, nuts, potatoes, cabbage, tomatoes, avocados, and eggs.
Lack of pyridoxine is manifested by symptoms of damage to the nervous system, in particular sensory disturbances in the extremities, insomnia, anxiety, as well as weakness, increased fatigue, pale skin, congestion in the corners of the mouth, and anemia.
To avoid such negative phenomena, the body should receive a total of about 2 mg of pyridoxine, including the one synthesized by the microflora.
The best injection complexes of B vitamins
Vitamin B complexes can be prescribed not only in tablets, but also in injections. Solutions for injection have higher bioavailability due to faster entry into the bloodstream.
Milgamma
Rating: 4.9
A solution for intramuscular administration, Milgamma, is popular among doctors. This German complex contains thiamine, pyridoxine, cyanocobalamin and lidocaine (a local anesthetic). This drug is actively prescribed to their patients by neurologists, traumatologists, osteopaths and other related specialists.
Milgamma ampoules are made of brown glass, which protect the solution from direct sunlight. Their volume is 2 ml. The red injection solution has a characteristic vitamin smell. Injections are carried out deep into the gluteal muscle. For severe pain, injections are given every day, 1 ampoule for 5-10 days. And then switch to taking pills or giving injections less often.
According to reviews from patients, Milgamma is a very effective remedy, but very painful. Despite the presence of lidocaine in the composition, the injection of B vitamins is real torture. To avoid lumps, the drug must be injected as deeply as possible. To do this, it is better to use a 5-cc syringe needle. Relief of symptoms from the nervous system occurs after 2 injections.
Advantages
- B1, B6, B12 are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream;
- relief of symptoms occurs already on the third day;
- injections are given once a day.
Flaws
- very painful injections;
- ampoules should be stored in the refrigerator.
Neurobion
Rating: 4.8
Another German drug, Neurobion, differs slightly in composition from Milgamma. It contains the same B vitamins, but does not contain lidocaine. Neurobion has proven itself well in the treatment of neuropathic pain, neuritis or neuralgia, as well as pain caused by pathologies of the spinal column.
Neurobion sells it in ampoules of 3 ml. Each package contains 3 of them. Neurobion is injected exclusively into the gluteal muscle, as deep as possible. Treatment begins with one ampoule (3 ml) daily until acute symptoms are relieved. After the patient’s condition improves, the drug is administered 1 ampoule no more than three times a week over the next 14-21 days.
According to reviews, Neurobion is not inferior in effectiveness to Milgamma, but due to the lack of lidocaine in the composition, it is even more painful. However, in terms of pain relief for radiculitis, aggravated osteochondrosis, and pinched sciatic nerve, Neurobion is superior even to diclofenax-containing NSAIDs. Moreover, it not only relieves pain, but also has a complex therapeutic effect.
Advantages
- a combination of important B vitamins for neurology;
- perfectly relieves pain;
- eliminates the inflammatory process;
- the injection is given once a day.
Flaws
- does not contain lidocaine;
- many possible side effects.
Neuromultivitis
Rating: 4.7
The Austrian drug Neuromultivit also contains B1, B6, B12. They belong to the neurotropic B vitamins. They have a beneficial effect on the nervous system and skeleton during inflammation and degenerative diseases. Neuromultivit is prescribed in complex therapy of various neurological pathologies.
The drug is produced in 2 ml light-protected glass ampoules. The color of the solution is red and it has a characteristic vitamin smell. For severe pain, therapy begins with deep intramuscular injection of 2 ml of Neuromultivit every day. The average duration of treatment is 5-10 days. Later, injections are given less frequently or people completely switch to taking pills.
Reviews about Neuromultivitis are mostly good. Although this is a very painful drug, it is quite possible to endure its administration. But the therapeutic effect will not take long to arrive. Relief usually occurs after just a few injections. The annotation for the drug lists various side effects, but most often, if the dosage is not exceeded, it is well tolerated.
Advantages
- good composition;
- acts quickly;
- rarely causes side effects.
Flaws
- lack of lidocaine in the composition.
Sertogamma
Rating: 4.6
The drug Sertogamma is produced in Romania. This is a high-quality generic of Milgamma. Along with B vitamins (thiamine, pyridoxine, cyanocobalamin), it contains an anesthetic - lidocaine. For inflammatory and destructive diseases of the bone or nervous system, the drug has a beneficial effect.
Sertogamma is sold in ampoules of 2 ml. The injection solution has a dark red color. In case of severe pain, therapy begins with daily intramuscular injections (deep) of 2 ml. The treatment course is 5-10 days. After this, they switch to taking pills or give injections less frequently.
Reviews from those who have used Sertogamma often report that the drug provides good pain relief and eliminates the inflammatory process. However, towards the end of the course of use, acne may appear. Other side effects appear less frequently. Sertogamma is very painful when administered, despite the presence of lidocaine in the preparation.
Advantages
- good composition;
- relieves pain and relieves inflammation;
- One injection per day is enough.
Flaws
- painful injections;
- acne may appear.
Compligam B
Rating: 4.5
The Russian pharmaceutical company Sotex produces a high-quality analogue of Milgamma - Compligam B. The drug contains vitamins B1, B6, B12, as well as lidocaine hydrochloride. The concentration of vitamin components here is high, which means they can have an analgesic effect, normalize the functioning of the nervous system and hematopoietic processes.
Compligam B is available in 2 ml dark glass ampoules. Raster for injections has a pinkish-red color and a characteristic smell of vitamins. In case of severe pain, they resort to injections of the drug, 1 ampoule once a day for 5-10 days. In the future, they switch to taking the drug orally or do injections infrequently.
According to reviews, the domestic drug works no worse than its imported counterparts. Compligam B is a good pain reliever and eliminates the inflammatory process. The main complaint about this drug is that it is extremely painful to administer, but in this regard, the more expensive drugs from this group have nothing to boast about.
Advantages
- vitamins and lidocaine in the composition;
- good pain reliever;
- when administered correctly, it rarely causes side effects;
- affordable price.
Flaws
- very painful injections.
Vitamin B9 (folic acid)
Folic acid plays a huge role in the development of the circulatory and nervous systems. Regular intake of this vitamin is most important for children and pregnant women. Sufficient intake of vitamin B9 helps to avoid anemia, and for pregnant women to reduce the risk of spontaneous abortion and prevent defects in the development of the nervous system in the unborn child.
Found naturally in green vegetables, cereals, and liver.
The daily requirement depends on age and is 200 mcg for an adult, and 400 mcg for pregnant women.
Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin)
The main role of this substance is to directly participate in the synthesis of hemoglobin, which is why it is also called the external Castle factor.
For the absorption of this substance, it is important not only its consumption in food, but also adequate functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, since with hypoacid gastritis or after gastrectomy, B12 does not bind to the intrinsic factor of Castle and is not absorbed.
As a result of its deficiency, anemia develops, for the treatment of which periodic administration of it intramuscularly is used. In addition to the hematopoietic system, the nervous system also suffers; dystrophy of spinal cord neurons develops, which over time leads to impaired movement and sensitivity in the lower extremities. Such a complication is rare nowadays, but before the advent of vitamin B12 preparations it was a natural outcome of its constant deficiency.
The main sources are products in which this vitamin accumulates during the life of animals, for example, liver and kidneys.
Normally, a person should receive an average of 5 to 7 mcg of cyanocobalamin per day.
Considering that all B vitamins are water-soluble, an overdose when eating foods rich in them is not observed. If they enter the body in excess, they are quickly eliminated by the kidneys.
Many beverage and breakfast cereal manufacturers claim that their products are fortified with B vitamins.
The best B vitamin complexes for oral administration
You can get all the necessary B vitamins with a varied and nutritious diet. But in some cases it is impossible to do without special vitamin complexes for oral administration.
Solgar B-Complex "50"
Rating: 4.9
The American company Solgar has developed B-Complex “50”, which is an effective product for saturating the body with B vitamins. This complex contains 8 main vitamins of this group, as well as 2 vitamin-like substances - inositol, choline. The capsules also contain a natural mixture. On the other hand, the product is free of sugar, gluten, preservatives, dyes and flavors.
The dietary supplement B-Complex “50” is available in capsules. They are suitable for vegans. The capsules themselves are transparent, and their contents are light yellow. Their size is not very large, so they are swallowed quite easily. Take dietary supplement 1 capsule 1 time per day. This should be done while eating.
Reviews about the B complex of vitamins from Solgar are mostly positive. Consumers note that with this remedy their sleep improves, irritability goes away, the digestive tract begins to function better, a surge of strength appears, and PMS becomes easier. Some women also note that after using this complex the condition of their skin, hair and nails noticeably improves.
Advantages
- balanced composition;
- vegetarian capsules;
- kosher product;
- does not contain gluten, sugar;
- improves the condition of the nervous system;
- makes hair, nails and skin healthier.
Flaws
- intolerance to individual components is possible.
Vitamin B-Complex Salus
Rating: 4.8
The German company Salus produces the dietary supplement Vitamin-B-Complex. The product contains 5 essential B vitamins, as well as niacin and biotin. This dietary supplement is especially recommended for increased physical activity, emotional stress, as well as for older people or vegetarians.
V-Complex is available in capsules. The package contains 60 pieces. They are located on three blisters, so you can buy 20 pieces. Adults are recommended to take 1 capsule once daily with their main meal. The vitamin complex is washed down with water. One package is enough for 2 months of daily use.
According to reviews, Vitamin B-Complex Salus is a very effective remedy. It helps cope with depression and stress, improves intestinal function, and normalizes the functioning of the nervous and cardiovascular systems. These vitamins are well absorbed, and the results of use become obvious after 1-2 weeks from the start of treatment.
Advantages
- B vitamins are well represented;
- can be purchased in parts;
- capsules are easy to swallow;
- The result of use becomes noticeable quite quickly.
Flaws
- allergic reactions are possible.
B-50 Now Foods
Rating: 4.7
The American manufacturer Now Foods produces a complete vitamin complex - B-50. It contains all 8 essential B vitamins, as well as 3 vitamin-like substances - para-aminobenzoic acid, choline and inositol. The dietary supplement does not contain gluten, wheat, milk, sugar, preservatives, flavors or dyes. Many people really like this product and believe that Now Foods and Solgar are worthy competitors.
The product is available in standard size transparent capsules. For peace of mind when purchasing, it is possible to evaluate it as it is shown on the packaging. The capsules are transparent with yellow contents. They have no smell. The package contains 100 capsules. The dosage regimen is 1 capsule per day, so the package lasts for 3 months.
In reviews, consumers often note that this is the best vitamin complex for those who have “nerves.” For some, the dietary supplement helped cope with panic attacks and depression. Other consumers note that with this complex they successfully healed cracks in the corners of the mouth, and the condition of their hair, nails and skin also noticeably improved. Many people call B-50 Now Foods a profitable investment in their body.
Advantages
- all B vitamins included;
- The capsules are quite easy to swallow;
- the product is suitable for vegetarians;
- the package lasts for 3 months;
- effective for various mental and nervous system disorders.
Flaws
- Not sold in all pharmacies, you need to order online.
Vitagen B Complex
Rating: 4.6
The Indian Vitagen B Complex is a highly effective multivitamin formula containing high doses of vitamins from group B. Taking this dietary supplement ensures optimal functioning of the nervous system, activates metabolism, stabilizes blood sugar levels, improves the functioning of the brain and nervous system.
The product has the necessary quality certificates. Vitagen B Complex is available in tablets. The jar contains 60 pieces. Dosage regimen: 1 tablet 1 time per day during the main meal. Despite the rather large size of the tablets, they are swallowed without problems. The course of treatment is 1 month. If there is such a need, then the reception can be repeated after a month's break.
According to reviews from those who have used Vitagen B Complex, this dietary supplement significantly improves immunity, helps fight the causes of depression and stress, gives a good mood, increased activity and performance. The product is sold in capsules of plant origin, which are easily absorbed by the body. And due to the content of prebiotics, they improve the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract.
Advantages
- balanced composition;
- vegetable capsules;
- well absorbed;
- reduces irritability, anxiety, blues;
- improves sleep;
- increases immunity.
Flaws
- individual intolerance to individual components.
Sundown Naturals B complex
Rating: 4.5
Another American complex of B vitamins is produced by Sundown. This is a high-quality dietary supplement without GMOs, gluten, dairy products and artificial flavors. Sundown Naturals B complex contains 6 essential B vitamins. They have thoughtful dosages, which at first glance exceed the daily dose, but in order to affect the nervous system, exactly this concentration is needed.
Sundown Naturals B complex is available in the form of small tablets (diameter - 0.7 cm). They are yellow and odorless, although when you open the jar itself, you can feel a bright vitamin aroma. The tablets are very easy to swallow. The daily norm is 1 tablet per day. Many people prefer to take them after dinner. These tablets should not be taken on an empty stomach, as digestion may be impaired.
Reviews about Sundown Naturals B complex are mostly positive. Consumers note that it is advisable to take this dietary supplement especially for nervous people. This vitamin complex helps improve sleep, and you feel a surge of energy throughout the day. Nervousness and irritability are eliminated. Thanks to Sundown Naturals B complex, your intestines function better. Vitamins are well absorbed and do not cause side effects.
Advantages
- 6 B vitamins included;
- small tablets;
- convenient dosing regimen;
- improve the functioning of the nervous system.
Flaws
- Not sold in all pharmacies.
Swanson Super Stress Complex
Rating: 4.4
The American dietary supplement Super Stress B Complex is produced by Swanson. The product is specially designed to replenish nutrients lost when the body is under stress. Along with vitamins and vitamin-like substances from group B, the dietary supplement contains vitamin C in high concentration.
Swanson Super Stress B Complex is produced in standard size yellow capsules. The package contains 240 pieces. Take the dietary supplement 1 capsule 1-2 times a day during main meals, with a sufficient amount of water. It is recommended to store the bottle of capsules in a cool, dry place at room temperature.
Consumers speak well of this complex of B vitamins. They note that with the dietary supplement Swanson Super Stress B Complex they feel a surge of strength, their psycho-emotional state improves and their immunity is strengthened. Skin, hair and nails look much more attractive when using such vitamins. This American dietary supplement does not cause side effects or overdoses.
Advantages
- B vitamins are supplemented with ascorbic acid;
- effective for long-term stress;
- capsules are easy to swallow;
- increase immunity.
Flaws
- Individual intolerance to the main components is possible.
Doppelhertz active Magnesium + B vitamins
Rating: 4.3
The German dietary supplement Magnesium + B Vitamins from the manufacturer Doppelhertz Active also deserves attention. The complex contains vitamins B1, B6, B12, folic acid and magnesium. The dietary supplement is indicated for fatigue, fatigue, high physical activity and stress. This remedy improves the quality of life and raises the overall tone of the body.
Doppelhertz active Magnesium + B vitamins in tablets are produced. They are quite large (2 cm), but if problems with swallowing occur, they can be broken along the separation line. Dosage regimen: 1 tablet per day during or after the main meal. You should drink it with a sufficient amount of water. Therapeutic course - 2 months.
According to consumer reviews, the dietary supplement Magnesium + B Vitamins has proven itself well. It helps get rid of cramps, gives strength, calms a frayed nervous system, improves hair condition (less hair loss). This German remedy turns out to be especially effective in the fight against panic attacks and all kinds of manifestations of vegetative-vascular dystonia.
Advantages
- B vitamins are supplemented with magnesium;
- reception 1 time per day;
- well absorbed;
- does not cause side effects;
- perfectly calms the nervous system.
Flaws
- large tablets.
Blagomax "B complex of vitamins"
Rating: 4.2
The Russian company VIS produces the dietary supplement Blagomax “complex of B vitamins.” This product contains vitamin B6, B12, B2, folic acid, nicotinamide, pantothenic acid, inositol. This complex of vitamins has proven itself well for increased fatigue, reduced immunity and psycho-emotional exhaustion.
Blagomax “B complex of vitamins” is available in yellow capsules. They are quite large, but swallowing them is quite possible. The package contains 90 pieces. Dosage regimen: 1 capsule 1 time per day with meals. Many people prefer to consume them during breakfast. Duration of treatment is 4-6 weeks. Then a break is taken, but it is recommended to drink them again throughout the year.
Reviews about this dietary supplement are mostly positive. Although you can notice results from use no earlier than after 2 weeks, patients note that they have a surge of energy, their emotional state stabilizes, and insomnia goes away. Hair grows faster, nails become stronger, and skin glows.
Advantages
- 7 vitamins from group B in the composition;
- reception 1 time per day;
- improve general condition and appearance;
- normalize the functioning of the nervous system.
Flaws
- the first effect is noticeable only after 2 weeks.
B vitamins “Be healthy!”
Rating: 4.1
The Russian pharmaceutical company Vneshtorg Pharma produces the vitamin complex “Be Healthy!” They contain 7 essential vitamins from group B. They are designed to regulate the activity of the nervous system, help restore strength and energy, participate in hematopoietic processes, and have a positive effect on the condition of the skin, hair and nails.
This dietary supplement is produced in medium-sized tablets. They are covered with a sweetish shell. The package contains 30 pieces, located on two blisters. They swallow without problems. Take these vitamins 1 tablet 1 time per day with meals. The minimum course of treatment is 1 month.
According to reviews, this complex “Be healthy!” makes people calmer. Consumers note that with this dietary supplement they respond adequately to things that previously made them angry. Also, these vitamins significantly improve thinking abilities and give vigor. After just 2 weeks of use, drowsiness and lethargy disappear and a good mood remains.
Advantages
- good composition;
- tablet size;
- dosage regimen;
- significantly improve the condition of the nervous system;
- invigorate, relieve constant drowsiness.
Flaws
- individual intolerance to components.
Angiovitis
Rating: 4.0
The Russian pharmaceutical company Altaivitamin produces the Angiovit complex. It contains: pyridoxine hydrochloride, folic acid and cyanocobalamin. This complex of B vitamins is especially indicated for coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular insufficiency due to atherosclerosis, as well as for diabetic angiopathy.
Angiovit is produced in small white coated tablets. They are sweetish and easy to swallow. The package contains 60 pieces - 10 on one blister (6 plates in total). Dosage regimen: 1 tablet per day, regardless of meals. The duration of the therapeutic course is 20-30 days. If necessary, it can be repeated after a while.
In reviews, patients note that this complex helps get rid of constant loss of strength, headaches, and nosebleeds. Angiovitis also helps improve the condition of nail plates - they grow quickly and do not peel off. Hair falls out less and skin becomes more radiant with these vitamins. This complex is also suitable for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Advantages
- B6+B9+B12;
- tablets are easy to swallow;
- reception 1 time per day;
- do not cause side effects;
- good for the cardiovascular system.
Flaws
- not all group B is represented.
