Biotin

Biotin is used in the treatment of biotin-responsive inborn errors of metabolism holocarboxylase synthetase deficiency and biotinidase deficiency. Studies that have taken place recently revealed that even marginal Biotin deficiency is teratogenic in many mammals. There is also data showing that marginal Biotin deficiency occurs in a significant proportion of pregnant women. It's too early to recommend widespread supplementation of Biotin during pregnancy, but the use of this vitamin might be indicated in some pregnant women whose physicians advise its use. There is emerging evidence that supplemental Biotin may improve disordered glucose metabolism and thus may be helpful in some cases of diabetes. Biotin may also be indicated in some cases of those on total parenteral nutrition and in individuals with brittle nails. There is dated evidence that Biotin can positively affect lipids. There isn't any evidence that Biotin can restore hair growth except in some cases of Biotin deficiency. There is some evidence that Biotin may help manage the "uncombable hair syndrome." There isn't any evidence that Biotin improves exercise performance.

Nursing mothers and women who are pregnant should avoid supplemental Biotin doses greater than the adequate intakes (AI) recommended by the Food and Nutrition Board, unless higher doses are prescribed by their physicians. The AIs are 35 micrograms/day for nursing mothers and 30 micrograms/day for pregnant women. Biotin use for the treatment of a biotin-responsive medical conditions requires medical supervision. There aren't any reports of adverse reactions associated with Biotin supplementation. Antibiotic use might decrease the Biotin contribution to the body made by the microflora of the large intestine. Anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone) can accelerate Biotin metabolism and might cause reduced Biotin status. Long-term use of carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, and primidone has been associated with reduced plasma concentrations of Biotin. High-doses of pantothenic acid might inhibit the absorption of Biotin produced by the microflora in the large intestine. This website is intended to educate and inform, and should not replace discussions with your doctor.