Biotin Interactions Overview

Check For Interactions With Biotin

Biotin

Also known as
  • Vitamin H
  • Vitamin B7
Biotin Biotin, also known as vitamin H or vitamin B7, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a role in various metabolic processes in the body. It is necessary for the growth and maintenance of healthy skin, hair, and nails, and is also involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids. Biotin is considered to be generally safe when consumed in the recommended daily amounts but it is important to note that consuming large amounts of biotin-containing supplements or products can cause falsely high or falsely low test results for certain laboratory tests, such as those for thyroid function, hormone levels, and certain biomarkers for certain diseases.
There are 0 drugs known to interact with Biotin

Additional Details

Is Biotin Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Biotin is generally safe when used orally and appropriately. There is no established tolerable upper intake level (UL) for biotin. When applied topically in cosmetic products, it's also considered safe at specific concentrations.

How Is Biotin Thought To Work? What Is the Mechanism of Action?

Biotin is a vitamin found in many foods and produced by the body's intestinal microflora. It acts as a coenzyme in essential carboxylation reactions, supporting various metabolic processes like gluconeogenesis, fatty acid synthesis, and propionate metabolism. Biotin deficiency can lead to symptoms like hair thinning, skin rashes, and neurological issues. Biotin is involved in lowering blood glucose levels, potentially benefiting people with diabetes. Additionally, it may have lipid-lowering effects by influencing fatty acid oxidation and could affect factors related to development, fertility, and growth.

Pharmacokinetics

After oral administration, biotin is fully absorbed within 1-2 hours. It is bound to proteins in food, requiring the enzyme biotinidase to cleave it for bioactivity. The sodium-dependent multivitamin transporter (SMVT) helps transport biotin across the intestinal lining into the liver and other tissues. Biotin is stored in the mitochondria and acts as a reservoir in the liver. It is metabolized by beta-oxidation and sulfur oxidation. About half of the ingested biotin is excreted in the urine within 24 hours.

Interaction Overview (See Below For Full List)

Biotin does not have any known interactions with drugs, but it might interact with certain supplements, such as alpha-lipoic acid and vitamin B5, affecting their absorption. Biotin can also influence the results of various lab tests, including those for 25-hydroxyvitamin D, insulin, and thyroid-stimulating hormone.

Common Side Effects To Watch For

Biotin is generally well-tolerated both orally and topically. There are no common adverse effects reported.

Are Supplements Standardized?

There is currently insufficient reliable information available about the standardization of biotin supplements.

What Is Biotin Used For (Dietary Supplement)?

  • Hair, Skin, and Nail Health: Biotin is commonly used to promote healthy hair, skin, and nails. It plays a crucial role in the production of keratin, a protein that forms the structural basis of these tissues. Biotin supplementation may help strengthen and improve the appearance of hair, skin, and nails.
  • Metabolism Support: Biotin is involved in various metabolic processes, including the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy. It acts as a coenzyme in important metabolic reactions, aiding in the conversion of food into usable energy for the body.
  • Diabetes Management: Biotin may have a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. It is involved in the synthesis and release of insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. Biotin supplementation may help improve glucose control and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.
  • Pregnancy and Fetal Development: Biotin is crucial for embryonic growth and development. Adequate biotin levels are important for normal fetal development, especially for the formation of the baby's organs and tissues. Pregnant women often take biotin supplements to support their own health and the healthy development of their baby.
  • Neurological Function: Biotin plays a role in maintaining the health of the nervous system. It is involved in the production of neurotransmitters, which are essential for proper brain function. Biotin supplementation may support cognitive health and help improve symptoms associated with certain neurological conditions.
  • Energy Production: Biotin is necessary for the conversion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy. It helps activate enzymes involved in energy metabolism and supports the efficient utilization of nutrients for energy production. Biotin supplementation may help combat fatigue and increase overall energy levels.

Drugs that interact with Biotin

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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

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