Chances are that you trust the supplements that you regularly use. There isn’t need of spending your hard-earned cash on some stuff if you have any doubts. Currently, more than 4 billion people from all over the world are taking biotin. But could it be associated with some side effects?
To find out if there are any adverse side effects, let’s take a deeper look at biotin. This happens to be a water-soluble vitamin commonly found in foods like eggs, whole grains, cucumber, oats, pecan, dried fruits, strawberries, cow milk, brewer’s yeast, and cauliflower.
In recent times, biotin, also known as Vitamin H or B7, has gained popularity and can be obtained in supplement form from all over the world. You can find it under different brand names, such as biotine, Appearex, Vitamin B7, Vitamin H, coenzyme R, and biotina.
Although biotin comes with many health benefits, an overdose can trigger medical complications. It is thus important to study all the supplements before use to avoid any adverse side effects or reactions.
Here are the possible side effects associated with an overdose of biotin:
Allergic Reactions
You may experience allergic reactions when you use biotin supplements. Though very rare, some people have reported allergic reactions like a feeling of nausea, the formation of itchy rashes, swollen face and throat, and chest pain.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms after using biotin supplements.
Acne
Cystic acne on the jaw and chin line can occur when there is too much biotin in the system. This happens because the vitamin increases the production of sebum in the skin. This can rapture the skin and create space for dirt accumulation. Acne disappears a few weeks after you stop using the supplement. Staying hydrated after using biotin can lower the risk of acne formation.
Increased blood glucose levels
According to a study, people with diabetes should not take biotin supplements. This vitamin enhances the production of fatty acids and glucose in the body.
Anaphylaxis
A high dosage of biotin can trigger anaphylaxis or acute respiratory problems in some people. You should consult your physician at once if such a problem develops.
Effects when pregnant
High dosage of biotin during pregnancy can increase the risk of a miscarriage. Although some animal tests have demonstrated this risk, it has not been confirmed in human. It is thus recommendable to speak with your doctor before using biotin during pregnancy.
Increased urge to urinate
Unsubstantiated reports indicate that when taken in high dosages, biotin can make a person frequent the restroom. It can also trigger unusual sweating.
Diarrhea
Some people may experience diarrhea and stomach cramps after taking a high dosage of biotin. If you observe such conditions, it is advisable to stop using biotin supplements immediately.
Nausea and vomiting
Most of the people who consume biotin supplements complain of mild nausea and vomiting during the early stages. These side effects normally disappear with time.
Drug interaction
Biotin interacts negatively with cholesterol-lowering and anti-seizure drugs. When taken in higher dosage, it can interfere with the efficiency of these drugs.
Conclusion
Biotin is an essential vitamin for the proper and normal functions in the body. However, a high dosage can lead to medical complications. It is thus recommendable to contact your doctor before using any supplement, let alone biotin. You should also not exceed the recommended dosage.
