Biotin - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

Biotin Medication Information

Learn everything you need to know about Biotin-pronunciation, uses, dosage guidelines, indications, and when to take or avoid it.

Get up-to-date information on side effects, precautions, warnings, and proper storage to ensure safe usage.

Explore Biotin brand names commonly used in India and internationally, along with detailed pricing information. Consult your healthcare provider for tailored medical advice.

Generic Name : Biotin Pronunciation : BYE-oh-tin Therapeutic Classification : Vitamins

Brand Names or Trade Names of Biotin

India :

Other Name(s) of Biotin

Vitamin H, Vitamin B7, Coenzyme R

Overview of Biotin

Biotin is a water-soluble B - complex vitamin which is used as a nutrition supplement either alone or in combination with other vitamins and minerals.
Biotin was co-discovered by Dean Burk, an American Biochemist.

Why is Biotin Prescribed? (Indications)

• Biotin is a dietary supplement prescribed to prevent and treat a rare biotin deficiency which is associated with malnutrition, pregnancy, long-term tube feeding and rapid weight loss.
• It assists in various biochemical pathways as a cofactor that break down the body’s carbohydrate, protein and fat.
• Biotin is used for conditions like hair loss, brittle nails, conjunctivitis, and seborrheic dermatitis in children.
• It is also used in some metabolic disorders. However, its effectiveness in these conditions has not been established.

When should Biotin not be taken? (Contraindications)

Biotin is not recommended:
• In patients with unusual or allergic reactions to biotin supplements
• In children, or pregnant or breastfeeding women without the physician’s advice

What is the dosage of Biotin?

The recommended daily intake of biotin in the diet include the following:

• Infants (0 to 12 months) : 7mcg

• Children
(1 to 3 years) : 8mcg
(4 to 8 years) : 12mcg
(9 to 13 years) : 20mcg
(14 to 18 years) : 25mcg

• Adults over 18 years and pregnant women: 30mcg

• Breastfeeding women: 35mcg

How should Biotin be taken?

• Biotin comes in a tablet or capsule or syrup form to be taken by mouth with food.
• Patients who consume raw egg whites for several months and patients on parenteral nutrition treatment may require biotin injections given intravenously.
• Biotin injections are also available for intramuscular administration.

What are the side effects of Biotin?

• Biotin is usually safe and very well-tolerated.
• Adverse effects include allergic reactions or mild upset stomach.
• Skin reactions such as urticaria, itchiness, redness or pain at injection site may occur after the administration of injections.

What are the other precautions for Biotin?

• Regular long-term consumption of raw egg white should be avoided as it binds and reduces the absorption of biotin in the body.
• Taking biotin-rich foods such as egg yolks, avocados, cauliflower, whole grains, pork, liver, salmon fish and fruits such as raspberries can help to recover faster from deficiency.

What are the Drug Interactions of Biotin?

• Concentrations of biotin in the blood may be altered when taken along with medicines such as phenobarbitone, phenytoin, primidone, carbamazepine or some antibiotics.
• The concentrations of drugs like imipramine, fluvoxamine, haloperidol, olanzapine, clozapine, propranolol, and theophylline may be altered by biotin.
• Dietary supplements such as alpha-lipoic acid and pantothenic acid or vitamin B5 taken together with biotin decreases the absorption of each other and the combination should be avoided.

What are the storage conditions for Biotin?

• Store at room temperature (20-25°C) and keep away from excess heat and moisture.