Biotin, also known as Vitamin H, is a water-soluble vitamin that is found in several foods, including cooked eggs; nuts, such as almonds and pecans; whole grains and yeast; and fruits or vegetables, such as bananas and cauliflower. Biotin is one of the B-complex vitamins and is responsible for fortifying the skin, hair and nails. The recommended daily dosage for biotin is 30 mcg per day for those over the age of 19. There are also particular bacteria found in the intestine that manufacture biotin to reduce the potential for deficiency. Biotin toxicity is extremely rare, although there can be both positive and negative side effects associated with the vitamin .
Interactions
Biotin works in conjunction with other vitamins, including pantothenic acid, folic acid, and vitamin B12. These vitamins are all considered part of the group of B-complex vitamins that assist the body in metabolizing proteins and fats, supporting the nervous system and nourishing the skin, hair and nails. Increased amounts of biotin and pantothenic acid taken together may compete for absorption by the body's cells, thereby reducing some of their efficacy. Excess amounts of biotin may also reduce the absorption of alpha lipoic acid, an antioxidant, into the cells of the body.
Cardiac Issues
Because biotin is a water-soluble vitamin, much of its excess is excreted from the body through the urinary system, and side effects are rare. One possible consequence of increased amounts of biotin could involve a life-threatening cardiac condition. A case, cited by Oregon State University's Linus Pauling Institute, was reported of an elderly woman who was diagnosed with a form of pericardial effusion, a serious cardiac condition, after she took large amounts of biotin and pantothenic acid. The illness resolved after discontinuing the vitamins but the specific cause of the situation remains unclear.
Medications
Certain medications negatively interact with biotin in the body, causing a reduction in amounts of the vitamin, and potentially leading to a deficiency. Long-term use of certain drugs such as anti-seizure medications and some antibiotics may increase the excretion of biotin from the body, thereby reducing its levels. Persons taking these types of medication for long-term use may need to consider vitamin supplementation.
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