Part of the B-vitamin complex, biotin plays an important role in the conversion of food to energy, among other functions. A deficiency is quite rare and many people who choose to supplement with this vitamin do so because of its purported positive effects on the hair and nails; the University of Maryland Medical Center notes some preliminary evidence suggests that it might offer benefit for these purposes. Supplementation has also been proposed as a treatment for diabetes, peripheral neuropathy and to address a potential deficiency that results from the use of certain anticonvulsant medications and long-term antibiotics. While there are some established dosage guidelines for this supplement, you should always check with your doctor before beginning supplementation for the dosage appropriate for your condition.
Suggested Dosage
Suggested dosages of biotin typically range from 100 to 1,000 micrograms. If taking biotin to address a possible deficiency from anticonvulsant medications, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center recommends supplementing with the typical recommended daily intake, which consists of 30 micrograms for all adults 19 and older -- 35 micrograms if breastfeeding. Doses as high as 7,000 to 15,000 micrograms have been used for diabetes. The UMMC reports that safety has only been established in doses between 30 and 600 micrograms, meaning whether or not higher doses -- which have been suggested for certain conditions-- has not been established. If you plan on using biotin therapeutically, particularly for a serious condition like diabetes, you should consult with your doctor for guidance on the proper amount as the suggested dosages in some instances far exceed 600 micrograms.
Medication Interactions
Take biotin at least 2 to 3 hours before or after anticonvulsant medications. No other medication interactions have been reported, but this does not mean they do not potentially exist. You should always clear the use of supplements with your doctor when taking any sort of prescription medication.
General Safety
The UMMC reports that even at high doses, biotin does not appear to cause any side effects. This supplement does not appear to pose any toxicity risk either.
Other Considerations for Use
Whether or not you can safely supplement with biotin in larger amounts beyond nutritional requirements while pregnant or breast feeding, has not been established. If you have any condition that affects your liver or kidney, you should always clear the use of any supplement with your doctor as these organs play a central role in processing the drugs and supplements you use.
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