New evidence
Combining vitamin C with thiamine (B1) failed to reduce mortality in sepsis — an umbrella review of 31 systematic reviews found no statistically significant effect.
This is the first broad synthesis to look specifically at vitamin C plus thiamine combinations in sepsis, and the null result means the routine use of this pairing is not supported by current evidence — but because this is an early umbrella review, the picture could shift with better-designed trials.
Researchers analyzed 31 systematic reviews on intravenous vitamin C for sepsis and found that combining it with thiamine (vitamin B1) did not reduce mortality, organ dysfunction, or the time patients needed vasopressors. The only possible benefit appeared in certain narrow conditions with vitamin C alone, but the evidence was low-to-moderate certainty — so for now, these combinations don't offer a survival advantage in sepsis.
Where this fits in the evidence
Pillser has synthesized 3 studies on Vitamin B1 for Reduced Mortality Risk — overall evidence strength: Very low.
Across 3 studies, all reported neutral small-sized effects of vitamin B1 (thiamine) on reduced mortality risk in critically ill patients, including those with sepsis or septic shock. The evidence primarily comes from meta-analyses and systematic reviews involving intravenous thiamine, often in combination with other agents, with no statistically significant reductions in mortality observed.
The study
- Systematic Review
- 2026-07-01
- PloS one
This is a plain-language summary of a research finding, not medical advice. Pillser surfaces research signals to help you decide what's worth investigating — always consult a qualified professional before changing what you take.