Whilst in clinical practice today, I finally understood why Thiamine is prescribed in those with alcohol dependence…..

Thiamine, or vitamin B1, plays an important role in the body to support nerve, brain and heart function. On chronic use of alcohol, the lining of the gastrointestinal tract becomes inflamed and that in turn reduces the absorption and systemic availability of vitamin B1. Patients are therefore prescribed Thiamine to treat / prevent the deficiency. The dose does vary but a standard dose is 200–300 mg daily in divided doses.

Simple!