Group B vitamin , also known as vitamin H , stable to heat, soluble (in water and alcohol) and susceptible to oxidation, is available in food supplements and, in a natural form, in small quantities of foods such as wheat germ, products dairy products, nuts (such as almonds, peanuts and nuts), chard, salmon and chicken, among others. It is generally protein bound and has a relatively poor absorption.
Biotin , which is also considered as vitamin B 7 or vitamin B 8 is a necessary component of enzymes that break down substances such as carbohydrates and fats, among others; It is necessary for cell growth, as well as in the metabolism of amino acids and purines.
As a supplement, it is used to prevent or treat biotin deficiency associated with pregnancy , malnutrition , long-term tube feeding and rapid weight loss, among other disorders. Since there is no test to detect this extremely rare insufficiency, it is identified by symptoms such as hair loss , conjunctivitis , red and scaly eruptions in eyes, nose and mouth, as well as depression and tingling in extremities .
Biotin is also used in food supplements for hair loss , brittle nails, baby skin rash (seborrheic dermatitis) and diabetes, although scientific evidence of its effectiveness in these uses is insufficient.
How is biotin used?
Vitamin H is available in capsules, tablets and chewable tablets, as well as in intramuscular vials. The following doses of biotin are recommendations of the Food and Nutrition Commission of the Institute of Medicine of the United States:
Intramuscular route :
In adults, low doses of biotin are suggested intramuscularly (in the muscle) of 150 to 200 micrograms (mcg) daily, although in some cases higher doses of 10 to 40 mcg are recommended, which can be applied in muscles or veins .
Orally:
- Babies The dose of oral biotin suitable for newborns of up to 6 months is 5 mcg daily, while for babies of 7 to 12 months it is 6 mcg daily.
- Children Doses of 8 mcg per day of biotin are recommended in children up to 3 years of age; 13 mcg daily for those who are 4 to 8 years old and 20 mcg daily for those from 9 to 13 years old.
- Adolescents A daily consumption of 25 mcg is recommended for those between 14 and 18 years old.
- Adults (over 19 years old) . The dose of biotin in adults over 19 and pregnant women (over 14 years) can be 30 micrograms (mcg) daily. While during lactation, the recommended daily intake is 35 mcg.
Treatment for biotin deficiency and the congenital diseases that cause it must be done under medical supervision. It should be noted that there is no single recommended dose of biotin , so the doctor can prescribe doses different from those mentioned.
Side effects of biotin
Although there have been few side effects of biotin , they can occur, as there are no guarantees regarding the potency, purity or safety of some food supplements . There is scientific evidence of reports, publications and research that suggest that excess biotin doses or prolonged use could cause:
- Stomach ache.
- Mild rash, skin rashes or even skin infections.
- Reduction of insulin levels and increase of blood sugar.
On the other hand, the interactions of biotin (modification of the effect of one drug by the action of another when administered together) must be taken into account.
It should be noted that its effects have not been fully tested in conjunction with other herbs, supplements, drugs or foods. However, their reactions are known with the following medications:
- Broad-spectrum antibiotics such as sulfas can alter the intestinal flora that produces vitamin B 8 and, therefore, lower levels of it.
- Drugs against epilepsy are related to low levels of biotin , such as phenytoin, primidone, carbamazepine, phenobarbital and valproic acid.
- It can increase the effect of some lipid-lowering medications that lower the cholesterol level.
- Drugs that fight severe acne, such as isotrethinone, can reduce the activity of biotin .
In addition, while it is used it is not recommended to eat raw egg whites, since they contain avidin that binds biotin with the intestine and prevents its absorption. Eating 2 or more raw egg whites daily for several months can cause biotin deficiency . Similarly, pantothenic acid (vitamin B 5 ) in high doses can lead to inadequate absorption.
When to call a doctor?
A doctor should be consulted before starting a treatment with vitamin H , especially if you have a disease or if you take drugs, herbs or other supplements. Likewise, it is necessary to go to a health center and stop treatment if there is a rash or rashes.