Biotin

Uses of Biotin

Biotin is an essential vitamin for the human body known as H. It is also called vitamin B or vitamin B-7. It is indicated for hair fall, weak, soft and fragile nails, eczema and skin diseases. In addition to these, It helps in the metabolic process of fat, carbohydrates and acids in the human body. Biotin plays important role in protecting the health of the human brain and maintaining mental balance.   

Pharmacology

Biotin is involved in a variety of physiological functions, like amino acid catabolism, fatty acid synthesis, and gluconeogenesis. It affects the growth and differentiation of epidermal cells that are related to the formation of hair, skin and nails. Biotin acts as an enzyme for the mitochondrial carboxylases present at the base of human hair and helps to improve the structure of keratin. And for the same reason, if there is a lack of Biotin, hair fall and the fragility of the nails, as well as dermatitis and aciduria, are appeared. So It is a widely used medicine in the treatment of nails and skin including hair fall.  

Dosage and Administration

Biotin dosage may vary depending on the disease and age.

• Adult patients are usually prescribed one to three tablets/capsules per day.
• In the case of children, Biotin deficiency problems often occur early or within two years of age, such as convulsions, senseless, shortness of breath, etc. In these cases, 5 to 10 tablets/capsules can be used daily making powder and mixed with water or fruit juice.

However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before taking Biotin. Infants:

• 0-6 months: 5 mcg daily
• 7-12 months: 6 mcg daily

Children:

• 1-3 years: 8 mcg daily
• 4-8 years: 12 mcg daily

Males and Females:

• 9-13 years: 20 mcg daily
• 14-18 years: 25 mcg daily
• ≥19 years: 30 mcg daily

Pregnancy: 30 mcg daily  Lactation: 35 mcg daily  

Interaction

Excessive consumption of raw egg whites reduces the body's absorption of Biotin. Moreover, the use of antibiotics in the treatment of various diseases reduces the production of Biotin caused by microorganisms present in the colon. And the only Biotin reducing drug in human blood plasma is anticonvulsant medicine.  

Contraindications

It is contraindicated in those who are hypersensitive to Biotin.  

Side Effects of Biotin

There are usually no serious side effects after taking Biotin in moderate doses. In addition, a maximum of 200 mg orally and up to 20 mg intravenously has not been reported.  

Pregnancy and Lactation

No specific guidelines or instructions for using Biotin during pregnancy and lactation were found.  

Storage

Store Biotin in a cool, dry place away from light and humid weather. Also keep all kinds of medicines out of the reach of children.