Which vitamin is administered parenterally during withdrawal treatment?

Which vitamin is administered parenterally during withdrawal treatment?

• A. Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
• B. Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
• C. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
• D. Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12)

Answer: (A)

During alcohol withdrawal, the brain is vulnerable to thiamine deficiency, so replenishing thiamine parenterally is essential to prevent Wernicke’s encephalopathy. Thiamine is a key cofactor in cerebral energy metabolism; without it, glucose administration can worsen brain injury. Providing it IV or IM ensures rapid availability, especially in malnourished patients who may not absorb or retain oral thiamine well. While other vitamins may be given as part of overall nutrition, thiamine is the standard immediate parenteral vitamin used to prevent withdrawal-related neurological complications.

During alcohol withdrawal, the brain is vulnerable to thiamine deficiency, so replenishing thiamine parenterally is essential to prevent Wernicke’s encephalopathy. Thiamine is a key cofactor in cerebral energy metabolism; without it, glucose administration can worsen brain injury. Providing it IV or IM ensures rapid availability, especially in malnourished patients who may not absorb or retain oral thiamine well. While other vitamins may be given as part of overall nutrition, thiamine is the standard immediate parenteral vitamin used to prevent withdrawal-related neurological complications.