Related Terms
- ARP [N-(aminooxyacetyl)-N-(D-biotinoyl) hydrazine], B vitamins, biocytin, bioepiderm, bios II, biotín, biotin cadaverine, biotin nitrilotriacetic acid, biotin NTA, biotina, biotină, biotin-alkaline phosphate, biotin-PEO2-PPO2-amine, biotin-PEO3-maleimide, biotin-PEO4-amine, biotin-PEO4-propionate succinimidyl ester, biotinidase, biotyna, biyotin, carboxylic acids, cis-hexahydro-2-oxo-1H-thieno[3,4-d]-imidazole-4-valeric acid, coenzyme R, cofactors, D-biotin, cis-hexahydro-2-oxo-1H-thieno[3,4-d]-imidazole-4-valeric acid, Diachrome®, dUTP biotin, factor alpha, shēngwù sù (Chinese), tripotassium salt (BNTA), vitamin B7, vitamin H, W factor.
- Note: This monograph does not include the use of biotin as a laboratory or diagnostic reagent. The monograph does not discuss analytical methods for measuring biotin, e.g., in biological fluids.
Background
- Biotin is an essential water-soluble B vitamin, also known as vitamin B7. Biotin binds to a number of enzymes and other proteins. Without biotin, these enzymes do not function properly. Biotin is available in a wide variety of plant- and animal-based foods. Among the richest sources are milk and liver. Biotin can also be obtained from bananas, brewer's yeast, cauliflower, cooked eggs, legumes, nuts and nut butters, sardines, and whole grains.
- Biotin deficiency is rare. This is because daily biotin requirements are relatively small. Biotin is found in many foods, bacteria in the intestine also make biotin, and the body is able to recycle much of the biotin it has already used. Reports of significant toxicity with biotin are lacking, even with doses 600 times greater than the estimated daily intake of approximately 30 micrograms in a healthy adult.
- Some populations are at greater risk of developing biotin deficiency. These include malnourished children in developing countries, those taking anticonvulsants or broad-spectrum antibiotics (such as sulfa drugs), and those who consume large amounts of raw egg white over months or years. Raw egg white contains the protein avidin. Avidin binds biotin very tightly and prevents its absorption in the digestive system. Marginal biotin deficiency, which is not severe enough to cause classic symptoms, may develop in up to 50% of women during normal pregnancies.
- Biotin deficiency can be the result of inborn errors of metabolism, such as defects in any of the enzymes that bind to or process biotin in the body. The symptoms of biotin deficiency are similar, regardless of the underlying cause. Symptoms include conjunctivitis, developmental delay in infants and children, hair loss, low muscle tone, metabolic changes (such as impaired glucose tolerance), skin lesions around the mouth and other body openings, seizures, and uncoordinated body movements. Biotin deficiency due to inborn errors of metabolism can generally be treated with very high doses of biotin without adverse effects.
Evidence
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Dosing
The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.
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Safety
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.
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Interactions
Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.
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Author Information
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References
Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.
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