Biotin

Introduction

Biotin is one of the more recently discovered water-soluble B vitamins. Since 1942, it has been studied for its role in the production of many enzymes. Biotin is also known as the vitamin that produces healthy hair and helps prevent graying.

Biotin is found abundantly in many plant and animal foods. Bacteria in the intestines also produce a considerable amount of biotin. The best food sources include liver, milk, brewer’s yeast, bananas, grapefruit, watermelon, strawberries, and peanuts.

Dosage Info

Dosage Range

30-5,000mcg daily

Most Common Dosage

900mcg daily

Dosage Forms

Tablets and capsules.

Interactions and Depletions

Depletions

Reported Uses

Biotin plays a vital role in the production of energy from the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. It also provides a number of benefits when used clinically. First, it may support the health of nails and offer treatment for brittle nails. (1) Meanwhile, it may help lower blood sugar levels in diabetics while possibly improving nervous disorders associated with diabetes. (2)

Biotin has a number of applications in children as well. In infants, one form of dermatitis has been associated with biotin deficiency. (3) , (4) Deficiency has also been associated with Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). (5) Finally, biotin supplementation may help tame hair cowlicks in children, a condition physicians sometimes refer to as “uncombable hair syndrome.” (6)

Toxicities & Precautions

Introduction

[span class=alert]Be sure to tell your pharmacist, doctor, or other health care providers about any dietary supplements you are taking. There may be a potential for interactions or side effects.[/span]

General

It is recommended that people consult a physician before attempting to use biotin to reduce graying hair as it may require additional supplementation with other vitamins.

Pregnancy / Breast Feeding

To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects related to fetal development during pregnancy or to infants who are breast-fed. Proper nutrition is essential during pregnancy for the healthy development of the fetus. Numerous vitamins and minerals are a vital part of proper nutrition. If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breast-feeding an infant, talk to your healthcare professional about supplementing your diet with appropriate vitamins and minerals.

Age Limitations

To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects specifically related to the use of this dietary supplement in children. Vitamins and minerals are an essential part of proper growth and development. Talk to your healthcare professional about the appropriate use of vitamins and minerals in children. Do not use any vitamin or mineral in children under 2 years of age unless first discussed with your healthcare professional.

References

  1. View Abstract: Hochman LG, et al. Brittle Nails: Response to Daily Biotin Supplementation. Cutis. Apr1993;51(4): 303-05.
  2. View Abstract: Koutsikos D, et al. Biotin for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy. Biomed Pharmacother. 1990;44(10):511-14.
  3. View Abstract: Bonjour JP. Biotin in Man’s Nutrition and Therapy – A Reivew. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 1977;47(2):107-18.
  4. View Abstract: Schulpis KH, et al. The effect of isotretinoin on biotinidase activity. Skin Pharmacol Appl Skin Physiol. Jan1999;12(1-2):28-33.
  5. View Abstract: Johnson AR, et al. Biotin and the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Nature. May1980;285(5761):159-60.
  6. View Abstract: Shelley WB, et al. Uncombable Hair Syndrome: Observations on Response to Biotin and Occurrence in Siblings with Ectodermal Dysplasia. J Am Acad Dermatol. Jul1985;13(1):97-102.