Biotin (Hair, Skin & Nails)
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Biotin is a form of vitamin B that helps your body break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.
Small amounts of biotin are found in foods like eggs, milk, and bananas.
Biotin is used as a medical therapy in prescription form to treat a documented biotin deficiency with related symptoms of hair and skin changes. It’s also sometimes used in children with a specific condition called biotinidase deficiency.
Biotin is commonly taken as a supplement by the general public to help with hair loss and to promote hair health, though there’s no solid scientific evidence to support these uses.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved this product for medicinal purposes, aside from use as an additive in certain prescription multivitamins.
When biotin is sold as an herbal supplement, there aren’t universal governmental manufacturing standards in place.
You should only purchase biotin from a reliable source, and if you need help, it’s best to speak to a trained health professional who is skilled in complementary, integrative, or functional medicine.
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Biotin (Hair, Skin & Nails)?
You should not use this product if you are allergic to biotin.
Before using biotin, talk to your healthcare provider. Your dose needs may be different if you:
- have a deficiency of the enzyme called biotinidase;
- smoke; or
- kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis).
Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.
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What are the side effects of Biotin (Hair, Skin & Nails)?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Common side effects may include diarrhea or respiratory problems.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Biotin (Hair, Skin & Nails) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Biotin (Hair, Skin & Nails)?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Biotin (Hair, Skin & Nails)?
Use Biotin (Hair, Skin & Nails) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.
If you choose to use biotin, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.
Biotin is available in tablet, liquid, and capsule formulations. Do not use different formulations of biotin at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose of biotin.
Do not swallow the orally disintegrating tablet, or sublingual tablet. Allow the orally disintegrating tablet to dissolve in your mouth without chewing. The sublingual tablet should be placed under your tongue to allow it to dissolve.
Measure biotin liquid with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). Biotin may also be given through a feeding tube. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don't understand these instructions.
Eating 2 or more raw egg whites for several months may prevent the body from absorbing biotin.
Biotin can cause cause false results on a drug-screening urine test. Tell the laboratory staff that you use biotin.
The recommended daily dose of biotin changes with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You may also consult the Office of Dietary Supplements of the NIH, or the USDA Nutrient Database of recommended daily allowances for more information.
Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with biotin does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra biotin to make up the missed dose.
Overdose Signs
What happens if I overdose on Biotin (Hair, Skin & Nails)?
What to Expect
Most people get all the biotin they need by eating a balanced diet.
Biotin supplements are generally well-tolerated.
Additional Dosage Information
There’s no recommended dietary allowance for biotin. Typically, adequate intakes are defined as 30 micrograms (mcg) for adults and pregnant women and 35 mcg for breastfeeding women.
For a biotin deficiency, a dose of up to 10 milligrams (mg) a day has been used, with the guidance of a trained health professional.
Secondary Uses
Though experts generally warn there’s not enough evidence to support it, some people take biotin for the following conditions and related symptoms:
- Diabetes
- Nerve pain
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Muscle cramps
Talk to your doctor before taking biotin for any specific medical condition.