Biotin
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Biotin, a water-soluble B-complex vitamin (vitamin B7) is a coenzyme, and is sometimes called vitamin H. People generally absorb more-than-sufficient amounts of biotin from their diets. Biotin is also created by healthy bacteria in the intestine. Therefore, deficiencies in biotin are rare but occasionally do occur. Biotin is available over the counter as a nutritional supplement and plays multiple key roles in the body and its metabolism. For example, biotin is essential for healthy skin, nerves, cells, metabolism, digestive tract, and the regulation of blood sugar levels.
Biotin is essential for cell growth, and the manufacture of fatty acids and the regulation of glucose. It also plays a key role in the metabolism of fats and amino acids. Biotin helps in a variety of metabolic reactions and also assists in the transport of carbon dioxide.[1]
 Biotin | |
| Name for | Vitamin H, a B vitamin[2] |
|---|---|
| Manufacturers | Various |
| Uses | Used to treat biotin deficiency |
| Common side effects | Biotin taken in normal amounts has not been associated with any side effects.[1] |
| Effects of biotin deficiency | Thinning hair, loss of hair color, high cholesterol, heart problems, and a scaly red rash around the mouth, nose and eyes.[1] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Biotin Overview
Like all B vitamins, biotin aids the body in converting carbohydrates from food into glucose, which is burned for energy. Biotin also assists the body in metabolizing protein and fat. As with all water-soluble nutrients, biotin is not stored in the body. Therefore, it is necessary to have a continuous supply. Bacteria in the body produce biotin, and it is also present in food. Biotin food sources include egg yolks, brewers yeast, nuts, whole grains, mushrooms and bananas. Whole versions of these foods contain more biotin than processed ones, as the nutrient is destroyed during processing.[2]
The FDA has not established a Recommended Daily Allowance for biotin. However, it has been shown that the average adult requires 30 micrograms of biotin per day. Pregnant women do not need more; however, nursing women should get 35 micrograms daily. There are no side effects associated with biotin, and it is considered safe even in large amounts.[2]
Many studies have looked at uses of biotin supplements for a wide variety of conditions. Some research indicates that biotin with chromium might improve blood sugar levels in people who have type 2 diabetes. Other studies suggest that biotin could diminish resistance to insulin and ease nerve symptoms associated with the disease.
Although very preliminary evidence indicates that biotin might strengthen brittle nails, other common uses of biotin - for hepatitis, hair loss, and depression, for example - are unsupported by scientific evidence or are as yet untested. Some studies suggest that biotin could assist in the treatment of nerve damage. An example is the peripheral neuropathy that can come from kidney failure.[3] [3]
Biotin is found in supplements containing B vitamin complexes, as well as in multivitamins. Biotin is also sold as a lone supplement or in brewer's yeast formulas.[2]
Drug Side Effects
Biotin Deficiencies
Although rare, biotin deficiency can be identified by its symptoms, such as thinning hair, loss of hair color, high cholesterol, heart problems, and a scaly red rash around the mouth, nose and eyes. Symptoms of the nervous system include hallucinations, depression, exhaustion, and a tingling sensation in the arms and legs. Some evidence suggests that diabetes could result in a deficiency of biotin. Biotin supplements are give to people who have poor diets, people with anorexia, and people who are missing a part of the small intestine. Since pregnant women sometimes develop biotin deficiencies pregnant, they are often given biotin supplements. Biotin is often added to infant formulas, as a protection against biotin deficiencies developing.[1]
Biotin Interactions
There are no drugs or supplements known to cause adverse reactions when taken with biotin. However, raw egg whites can block absorption. Research has shown that people who consume the raw whites of two or more eggs per day could develop a biotin deficiency within several months. In addition, patients are advised to inform their doctors of biotin supplement use before starting any medications.[1]
Also See: Biotin Side Effects, Biotin Coupons, Vitamin Coupons, Vitamin B12 Coupons, Zinc Coupons, Fish Oil Coupons, Caltrate Coupons, Aspirin Coupons, DHEA Coupons, GNC Coupons
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