About the Drug and its uses

Biotin is otherwise called as vitamin B7. This is considered as one of the eight substances that are essential for the body needs. Biotin is one of the B-complex vitamins which help in the metabolism as well as the coenzyme in the chemical reactions that occur in the body to synthesize energy. Biotin is the substance that is used as the carrier for carbon-di-oxide in the tri carboxylic acid cycle. This TCA cycle which is a part of cellular respiration continuously occurs and helps in the synthesis of fat, metabolism of amino acids and glycogen formation.

Biotin is utilized for the weight loss and various advantages for diabetic people. Biotin is known to reduce blood sugar level and aid in processing carbohydrates. The increased levels of biotin in the body are associated with hair that is healthy and shiny.  This medication is used to strengthen the hair color and avoid hair loss. Biotin is naturally available in the human body and it is synthesized by the bacteria that are beneficial to the body present in the small intestines. Biotin is also available in various food items like meats, legumes and brewer’s yeast.

Biotin is useful in the treatment of deficiency of vitamins during pregnancy, long-term tube feeding, weight loss, and malnutrition. This vitamin is used as medication for skin rashes, brittle nails, mild depression and diabetes. This vitamin is administered orally as well as intravenously.

Very few side effects were reported as of now even if biotin is used in high doses. The possible side effects of biotin are

• There is a case studied where the women who have taken large doses of biotin along with vitamin B5 had bad lung and chest conditions called as eosinophilic pleura pericardial effusion. The medical condition was improved after stopping the usage of biotin and vitamin B5. The improvement might also be due to some other cause.
• Increased dosage of biotin given to the pregnant rats had reduced the growth of fetus and placenta and enhanced the risk for abortions.
• Breathing problems
• Tightness in throat and chest
• Chest pain
• Skin rashes or hives or itchy skin

Precautions to be taken to avoid side effects

Proper dose of biotin has to be taken as prescribed. If any abnormality or unusual symptom is observed after taking any nutritional supplement, then it is necessary to approach a medical professional and seek his/her advice. Though the problem may or may not be due to biotin, the doctor will be able to trace the problem effectively. People allergic to biotin must avoid using it.