Biotin: What is it and what is it for?

What is biotin?

Biotin, vitamin H or also known as vitamin B8, is part of group B , which is a vitamin considered essential since the human body does not synthesize it and therefore must be acquired through daily food as in the consumption of egg white .

What is biotin for?

• Biotin fulfills important functions in the human body, mainly those related to the metabolism of carbohydrates , amino acids and fatty acids, by joining other enzymes such as propionyl-CoA carboxylase in the intestine. (1)
• It is used to treat: 
  • Biotin deficiency in patients detected in laboratory tests. (two)
  • Deficiency in the use of vitamin B8 due to biotinidase deficiency. (3)
  • Increased blood glucose in diabetics.
  • Hair loss . (4)
  • Brittle nails. (5)
  • Skin rashes and around the eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Apathy and depression .

Dosage and routes of administration of biotin

Biotin is distributed in dietary supplements, in the form of pills or capsules for medical treatment. Its method of administration is orally , with the dose indicated by your doctor, which may be the following:

• As a supplement: One 300 mg capsule daily with water for at least 3 months or until directed by your doctor, preferably 30 minutes after breakfast.

Note: The average recommended daily intake of biotin or vitamin B8, is estimated between 5 mg and 30 mg depending on age, through food. (6)

What products contain biotin?

Some of the medicines that contain biotin are:

• Becozyme C Forte®
• Chelidon® 
• Complidermol 5 Alfa®
• Raised®

Becozyme C Forte®

• Becozyme C forte® is a medicine that contains B complex vitamins including biotin, vitamin C, among others.
• This medicine is indicated in the prevention and treatment of deficiency states of vitamins of group B and vitamin C.

Chelidon®

• Chelidon® contains in its extensive formulation, B complex vitamins including biotin.
• This medicine is indicated in the treatment of capillary fragility and nails.

Complidermol 5 Alfa®

• This medicine is a food supplement that contains biotin in its capsule formulation, as well as other trace elements.
• It is indicated to strengthen hair and nails in men and women.

Raised®

• elevit® is a multivitamin medicine that contains 19 trace elements, including biotin.
• It is indicated to treat deficiency states of vitamins and minerals during pregnancy.

Biotin Side Effects

The consumption of biotin in some patients can generate certain adverse effects such as the following:

• Possible allergic reactions due to contact with some of its chemical components.
• False results in thyroid tests when there is an overdose.
• Nausea.
• Cramps.
• Possible shortness of breath.
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.

Important: If you notice the appearance of any of these symptoms or any other not included in the list, stop its consumption and consult your doctor.

Contraindications and warnings of biotin

The consumption of biotin is contraindicated in the following cases: 

• Hypersensitivity to any of the chemical components of the biotin supplement.

You should know: It is recommended that you provide your doctor with information about your health history to indicate the best dosing strategy.

Avoid it if you have:

• Medication with anticonvulsant drugs.
• Severe gastrointestinal problems.

Warnings:

• Do not exceed the dose recommended by your doctor.
• Keep medicines out of the reach of children.
• Do not mix your consumption with alcoholic beverages.
• Store it in a dry and cool place.