B vitamins are a group of eight water-soluble vitamins that are commonly combined in B-complex supplements. Each one has a different name, form, and amount on the product label. This guide explains what to compare when reviewing B-complex and individual B vitamin supplements.
The eight B vitamins
- Vitamin B1 — thiamine
- Vitamin B2 — riboflavin
- Vitamin B3 — niacin or niacinamide
- Vitamin B5 — pantothenic acid
- Vitamin B6 — pyridoxine or other listed forms
- Vitamin B7 — biotin
- Vitamin B9 — folate or folic acid
- Vitamin B12 — cobalamin
Product labels may use a common name, chemical name, or a specific form. Review the Supplement Facts panel and complete ingredient list to see exactly which form and amount a product provides.
Common forms on B vitamin labels
- Thiamine: thiamine hydrochloride, benfotiamine, or another listed form
- Riboflavin: riboflavin or riboflavin-5-phosphate
- Niacin: nicotinic acid or niacinamide
- Vitamin B6: pyridoxine hydrochloride or pyridoxal-5-phosphate
- Folate: folic acid, folate, 5-MTHF, or another form named on the label
- Vitamin B12: cyanocobalamin, methylcobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, or adenosylcobalamin
These forms are not interchangeable for label-comparison purposes. Compare the specific form listed, along with the amount per serving and the product directions.
B-complex versus individual B vitamins
A B-complex supplement combines multiple B vitamins in one formula. An individual B vitamin product focuses on one nutrient. Compare the complete nutrient list, amounts per serving, serving size, and additional ingredients before choosing between the two.
What to compare when shopping
- Ingredient forms: Note the exact form listed for each B vitamin.
- Amounts per serving: Compare the amount and serving size rather than relying on the front label.
- Daily Value: Review the percentage of Daily Value where it is provided.
- Additional ingredients: Check for minerals, herbs, flavors, sweeteners, allergens, and other ingredients.
- Format: Compare capsules, tablets, liquids, powders, gummies, and other available formats.
- Directions and warnings: Follow the current product label for use, storage, and warnings.
- Package size and availability: Compare the number of servings, price, and current availability.
Choosing a B vitamin supplement
Use the product label to match the formula, form, serving information, and format to your shopping preferences. If you are considering a high-potency product, are pregnant, have a health condition, or take medication, consult a qualified healthcare provider before changing your supplement routine.
Shop B vitamin supplements
Browse B Vitamins to compare available individual B vitamin and B-complex products by ingredients, amounts, formats, serving sizes, labels, prices, and availability. You can also review Magnesium Supplements and Iron Supplements for related shopping categories.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.