Biotin is a form of vitamin B found in foods. Biotin helps the body break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.

Biotin has been used in alternative medicine as a likely effective aid in treating or preventing biotin deficiency. Biotin deficiency can be caused by malnutrition, rapid weight loss, long-term tube feeding, and other medical conditions.

Biotin has also been used to treat seborrhea (skin rash) in babies. However, research has shown that biotin may not be effective in treating this condition.

Other uses not proven with research have included treating brittle nails or thinning hair, diabetes, nerve pain, and other conditions.

It is not certain whether biotin is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Biotin should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.

Biotin is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.

Biotin may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.

If you choose to use biotin, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.

Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Biotin can cause false results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using biotin.

The recommended dietary allowance of biotin increases with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You may also consult the Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health, or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Nutrient Database (formerly "Recommended Daily Allowances") listings for more information.

It may take 3 to 6 months before the condition of your hair or nails improves.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with biotin does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this product.

After you stop using biotin, your nails will likely return to their original condition within 6 to 9 months.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

You should not use this product if you are allergic to biotin.

Before using biotin, talk to your healthcare provider. Your dose needs may be different:

• if you have kidney disease;

• if you have had stomach surgery; or

• if you smoke.

Ask a doctor before using biotin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra biotin to make up the missed dose.

Since biotin is a water-soluble vitamin, an overdose is unlikely to occur.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects may include upset stomach or diarrhea.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Most people get all the biotin they need by eating a balanced diet.

Biotin supplements are generally well-tolerated.

There’s no recommended dietary allowance for biotin. Typically, adequate intakes are defined as 30 micrograms (mcg) for adults and pregnant women and 35 mcg for breastfeeding women.

For a biotin deficiency, a dose of up to 10 milligrams (mg) a day has been used, with the guidance of a trained health professional.

Though experts generally warn there’s not enough evidence to support it, some people take biotin for the following conditions and related symptoms:

• Diabetes
• Nerve pain
• Multiple sclerosis (MS)
• Muscle cramps

Talk to your doctor before taking biotin for any specific medical condition.