Biotin (Vitamin H)









Biotin (Vitamin H)


Natural product category
Vitamin
What is this natural product used for?
Biotin is a water soluble B vitamin which is essential for the activity of many important metabolic reactions. Its activity is required for the maintenance of many tissues, including skin and hair, and it is required for normal nerve and bone marrow function. Biotin has been used by people with diabetes; for certain types of infections; and in individuals with skin, hair, nail, and overall nutritional health problems.
How does it work?
Many enzyme systems need biotin to function properly. These systems are involved in the metabolism (transformation) of proteins, carbohydrates, and fatty acids.
How is it best taken?
  • Take this product with or without food. Take with food if it causes an upset stomach.
  • Take this product with a full glass of water.
  • Take this product at a similar time every day.
What do I do if I miss a dose?
  • To gain the most benefit, do not miss doses.
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
What are the precautions when taking this natural product?
  • Check medicines and natural products with healthcare provider. This natural product may not mix well with other medicines or natural products.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicines or natural products. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
What are the possible side effects of this natural product?
None known
What should I monitor?
  • Follow up with healthcare provider on a regular basis.
Reasons to call healthcare provider
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; tightness in the chest; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
How should I store this natural product?
  • Store in original container at room temperature.
  • Protect from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.
Dietary sources
Fish, beans, nuts, egg yolks, whole grains, Brewer's yeast, organ meats (for example, liver)
Dosage forms
Oral
Drug interactions
Antibiotics and anticonvulsants may cause a depletion of this vitamin.
General statements
  • Vitamins are essential nutrients, meaning the body cannot make them but has to obtain them from either food and/or supplements.
  • There are two types of vitamins: Fat-soluble and water-soluble. Because the fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the fatty tissues in the body, toxic levels can develop. The fat-soluble vitamins are A, D, E, and K. Be sure to follow the package labeling when taking any of these products.
  • Water-soluble vitamins are removed from the body when not needed. They must be replaced each day, either through nutrient intake (daily meals) or from a supplement. The water-soluble vitamins are the B and C vitamins.
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