Biotin

Biotin Drug Information

• Biotin Overview

  Biotin (vitamin B7) is used to prevent or treat low levels of vitamin B7 in people who do not get enough of the vitamin from their diets. Most people who eat a normal diet do not need extra vitamin B7. However, some conditions (such as pregnancy, parenteral nutrition, rapid weight loss) can cause low levels of vitamin B7.

• How to Use Biotin

  Take Biotin by mouth as directed, usually once daily. Follow all directions on the product package. If your doctor has prescribed Biotin, take it as directed. If you are uncertain about any of the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. If you are taking chewable tablets, chew the tablet well and swallow. If you are taking extended-release tablets, swallow them whole. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split extended-release tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing. If you are using the rapidly-dissolving tablet, allow the tablet to dissolve under the tongue and then swallow, with or without water. If you are using the liquid form of Biotin, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Some liquid products need to be shaken before each dose. If you are using the powder form of Biotin, prepare the medication as directed by the product package. Take this vitamin regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

• Biotin Precautions

  Before taking biotin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any of its ingredients; or if you have any other allergies. Biotin may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Chewable tablets or liquid products may contain aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid aspartame (or phenylalanine) in your diet, consult your doctor or pharmacist about using Biotin safely. Liquid forms of Biotin may contain sugar and/or alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence, or liver disease. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using Biotin safely. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, Biotin should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if Biotin passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

• Biotin Misdose

  If you are taking Biotin on a regular schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

• Biotin Interactions

  Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Biotin may interfere with certain lab tests, possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use Biotin.

• Biotin Side Effects

  What are Biotin side effects?

  Side effects are physical, mental or emotional symptoms which occur in addition to or outside of the desired effect of a therapeutic treatment such as an over-the-counter or prescribed drug or medication. Side effects from Biotin may occur at the beginning or at the end of treatment and may also depend on the length of time an individual remains on the treatment. Side effects, also known as adverse effects, are generally more likely to occur when starting treatment. Individuals may also experience side effects from Biotin as a result of an interaction with other medications.

  Side Effects of Biotin

  The side effects of Biotin may vary in number and intensity for many different reasons. Factors such as age, weight, gender and ethnicity may influence the side effects of Biotin. Also, an individual’s state of general physical health and seriousness of the disease or illness as well as an increase or decrease in dosage may lead to side effects. Further, side effects from Biotin may also occur as a result of an interaction with certain herbal supplements, foods or drinks.

  Prescription drug side effects can be serious and may cause patients to stop the treatment. However, when side effects from the use of a prescription drug, such as Biotin, do occur a patient should consult their physician. A physician may prescribe an additional treatment in order to control the symptoms or an adjustment in the dosage may be made. In addition, changes to diet, exercise or other lifestyle activities may help to lessen the side effects of Biotin.

  By understanding side effects and the factors which may influence the occurrence of side effects patients are empowered to take an active role in their care. Patients who have specific questions about the side effects of Biotin, or any other medication, should contact their physician. General information about Biotin and the side effects associated with Biotin are described in the following:

  Common Biotin Side Effects

  Severe

  Less Severe

  Less Frequent Biotin Side Effects

  Severe

  Less Severe

  Rare or Very Rare Biotin Side Effects

  Severe

  Less Severe

• Biotin Storage

  Different brands of this vitamin have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard Biotin when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.