Does Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) deplete Thiamine (Vitamin B1)?

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Last updated: May 29, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

THC does not have a direct, established effect on depleting or interrupting vitamin B1 (thiamine) levels in the body. The current understanding of THC's impact on thiamine is limited, and there is no clear mechanism by which cannabis or its active components would significantly alter thiamine metabolism or levels 1. However, it's essential to consider that heavy cannabis use might indirectly affect nutritional status, including B vitamin levels, due to changes in eating patterns or lifestyle factors. Some users report altered appetite, which could lead to nutritional imbalances if diet quality is compromised.

Key Considerations

  • Maintaining a balanced diet rich in thiamine sources (such as whole grains, legumes, nuts, and lean meats) is crucial for overall nutritional health.
  • For individuals with suspected thiamine deficiency, a standard adult supplement of 50-100mg daily could be considered, but this should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially for those with conditions that increase thiamine requirements or those taking medications that might interact with thiamine metabolism.
  • The most efficient way to address thiamine deficiency, especially in acute cases, is through IV administration, providing 3 x 100-300 mg per day, as per the espen micronutrient guideline 1.

Clinical Implications

  • Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential indirect effects of cannabis use on nutritional status and consider thiamine supplementation as part of a comprehensive care plan for heavy cannabis users with suspected deficiencies.
  • Given the consensus (88%) on the recommendation for thiamine administration routes and doses 1, prioritizing IV administration for acute deficiency symptoms is advisable due to its efficiency.

From the Research

THC and B1 Interaction

There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to suggest that THC interrupts or depletes B1 (thiamine).

Food-Drug Interactions

  • The study 2 discusses food-drug interactions, which can affect the efficacy and safety of therapy, but does not specifically mention THC or B1.
  • Another study 3 focuses on thiamine deficiency, its causes, and clinical presentations, but does not mention THC.

Drug-Drug Interactions

  • The study 4 discusses drug-drug interactions, which can cause adverse drug events, but does not specifically mention THC or B1.
  • The study 5 provides information on thiamin, its deficiency, and its use in clinical practice, but does not mention THC.
  • The study 6 discusses common drug interactions and their management, but does not specifically mention THC or B1.

Conclusion on Available Evidence

There are no research papers in the provided evidence to directly assist in answering the question of whether THC interrupts or depletes B1.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Common Food and Drug Interactions.

Pediatrics in review, 2023

Research

Thiamin.

Advances in food and nutrition research, 2018

Research

Understanding and managing common drug interactions.

Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987), 2022

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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