Benfotiamine (Vitamin B1) CAS 22457-89-2

Benfotiamine (Vitamin B1) – Highly Bioavailable Lipid-Soluble Thiamine for Neuroprotection and Metabolic Support

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 22457-89-2

• Molecular Formula: C₁₉H₂₃N₄O₆PS

• Molecular Weight: 466.45 g/mol

• Synonyms: S-Benzoylthiamine O-monophosphate, Benfotiamin, B1 vitamin derivative

• Appearance: White to slightly cream-colored crystalline powder

• Solubility: Lipophilic; well‑soluble in fatty media; limited water solubility

• Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions (dry, protected from light)

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture

Overview
Benfotiamine is a lipid‑soluble derivative of vitamin B1 (thiamine) that offers significantly enhanced bioavailability and cellular penetration compared to water‑soluble thiamine salts. By introducing a lipophilic benzoyl group, benfotiamine can achieve substantially higher concentrations of active thiamine in tissues, particularly in nerve cells, where it helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. This makes it especially valuable in the management of diabetic complications, such as neuropathy, and in supporting overall neurological and cognitive health.

Chemical Structure and Synthesis
Benfotiamine is an S‑acyl derivative of thiamine, synthesized by esterification of thiamine with benzoic acid, resulting in a compound with increased lipid solubility. This modification allows the molecule to cross cell membranes more efficiently, leading to higher intracellular thiamine levels. The compound is typically produced as a stable hydrochloride salt for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.

Physicochemical Properties

• Appearance: White to slightly cream‑colored crystalline powder

• Solubility: Lipophilic; freely soluble in lipids and fatty media; limited water solubility

• Stability: Chemically stable when stored dry and protected from light

• Odor: Characteristic, mild

Applications

• Pharmaceuticals: Used for the treatment and prevention of vitamin B1 deficiency, particularly in conditions where enhanced tissue penetration is beneficial, such as diabetic neuropathy, alcoholic neuropathy, and other neurological disorders.

• Nutraceuticals: Incorporated into dietary supplements and multivitamin formulations to support carbohydrate metabolism, reduce oxidative stress, and maintain healthy nerve function.

• Diabetic care: Effective in reducing advanced glycation end‑product (AGE) formation, oxidative stress, and inflammation associated with diabetes, helping to prevent complications such as neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy.

• Cognitive support: Supports brain health and may improve cognitive function in aging individuals.

• Other: Used in sports nutrition and energy metabolism support.

Key Benefits

• Superior bioavailability compared to water‑soluble thiamine.

• Effectively reduces oxidative stress and inflammation.

• Protects against diabetic complications by inhibiting AGE formation.

• Supports nerve health and cognitive function.

• Well‑tolerated and safe at recommended dosages.

Recommended Dosage
Typical therapeutic dosages for diabetic neuropathy range from 300 to 600 mg per day (divided doses). For general supplementation, lower doses (50–150 mg/day) may be sufficient. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dosing.

Safety and Handling

• Benfotiamine is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) and well‑tolerated.

• May cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort in sensitive individuals.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, dust mask) when handling.

• Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture.

Packaging
Available in 1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, and 25 kg containers (bags, drums, or boxes). Custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity (by HPLC), moisture content, heavy metals, and microbial contamination to ensure compliance with pharmaceutical and nutraceutical standards.