Biotin

What is BIOTIN?

(BIOTIN) Biotin (vitamin B7) is used to prevent or treat low levels of vitamin B7 in people who do not get enough of the vitamin from their diets. Most people who eat a normal diet do not need extra vitamin B7. However, some conditions (such as pregnancy, parenteral nutrition, rapid weight loss) can cause low levels of vitamin B7.

How should I use BIOTIN?

Take this medication by mouth as directed, usually once daily. Follow all directions on the product package. If your doctor has prescribed this product, take it as directed. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. If you are taking chewable tablets, chew the tablet well and swallow. If you are taking extended-release tablets, swallow them whole. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split extended-release tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing. If you are using the rapidly-dissolving tablet, allow the tablet to dissolve under the tongue and then swallow, with or without water. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Some liquid products need to be shaken before each dose. If you are using the powder form of this medication, prepare the medication as directed by the product package. Take this vitamin regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take BIOTIN?

Before taking biotin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any of its ingredients; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Chewable tablets or liquid products may contain aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid aspartame (or phenylalanine) in your diet, consult your doctor or pharmacist about using this drug safely. Liquid forms of this product may contain sugar and/or alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence, or liver disease. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this product should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this product passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

What may interact with BIOTIN?

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. This product may interfere with certain lab tests (such as thyroid tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this product.

What if I miss a dose of BIOTIN?

If you are taking this product on a regular schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What side effects may I notice from receiving BIOTIN?

This vitamin usually has no side effects. If you have any unusual effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Where should I keep BIOTIN?

Different brands of this vitamin have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.