Biotin

Biotin (Vitamin B7) is an important part of enzymes in the body that break down substances like fats, carbohydrates, and others. There isn’t a good test for detecting low biotin levels, so it’s usually identified by its symptoms, which include thinning hair and red scaly rash around the eye.

Biotin is an alternative medication used in the management and treatment of pathological hair conditions. It is in the vitamin class of drugs. This activity reviews the indications, action, and contraindications for biotin as a valuable agent in the therapy of biotin deficiency and hair conditions. In addition, this activity will highlight the mechanism of action, adverse event profile, and other key factors (e.g., off-label uses, dosing, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, monitoring, relevant interactions) pertinent for members of the healthcare team in the management of patients with brittle hair and related conditions. Moreover, Biotin is used for biotin deficiency. It is also commonly used for hair loss, brittle nails, and other conditions.

Mechanism of Action

Biotin also acts as a coenzyme for multiple carboxylases in humans, and it changes the irreversible carboxylation of acetyl-CoA to malonyl-CoA. These enzymes are vital in numerous metabolic processes. Recently, the new roles of biotin have been acknowledged, in particular, the roles in cell signaling and epigenetic regulation. Biotin’s mechanism of action occurs by attaching to specific lysine residues. The side effects of ingesting too much biotin could include an upset stomach, although it remains a vitamin with very low side effects. Biotin uptake by human colonic epithelial is a carrier-mediated process. Vitamin B7 is a cofactor for three significant carboxylation reactions, which include the conversion of pyruvate to oxalacetate, acetyl-CoA to malonyl-CoA, and propionyl-CoA to methylmalonyl-CoA. A carboxylase reaction includes the transfer of carbon with the assistance of biotin. Essentially these conversions assisted by biotin break down food into glucose, the primary carbohydrate source for the brain and body.

Administration:

Take this product by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily. If you are taking the over-the-counter product, follow all directions on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

 

 

Note:

If you are pregnant, nursing, taking any medication, or have a medical condition, please consult your healthcare practitioner.