1 Answer

What are the risks of taking biotin?

• Side effects. Biotin seems to be safe and well-tolerated, even at fairly high levels. The maximum safe dose of biotin is unknown.


• Risks. If you have any medical conditions -- or are pregnant or breastfeeding -- check with a doctor before using biotin supplements. Don't give biotin to a child unless a pediatrician recommends it.


• Interactions. If you take any medicines regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using biotin supplements. Biotin might weaken the effect of some cholesterol medicines. Conversely, many drugs can lower biotin levels, including some antibiotics and medicines for acne. Some epilepsy medicines may decrease biotin absorption from food. A supplement, lipoic acid, may also increase the need for biotin. Eating raw egg whites on a regular basis can also lower biotin levels in the body.