Why do we need biotin? Review article
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Published:
Jun 30, 2025
Keywords:
biotin, biotin deficiency, biotin sources, diagnostic tests, vitamin B7
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Abstract
The present paper delineates the mechanism of action of biotin in the human body and the consequences of biotin deficiency. Indeed, the prevalence of biotin supplements is notable, with approximately 30% of consumers in the USA reporting their use and a significant proportion of medical professionals recommending them. Consequently, a critical examination of this substance is warranted. In order to this end, the indications for implementing biotin supplementation were analysed in the context of research findings and the aetiology of biotin deficiency.
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How to Cite
Bazylko, A. (2025). Why do we need biotin?. Medycyna Faktow (J EBM), 18(2(67), 240-244. https://doi.org/10.24292/01.MF.0225.11
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References
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12. Samadi A, Ketabi Y, Firooz R et al. Efficacy of intramuscular injections of biotin and dexpanthenol in the treatment of diffuse hair loss: A randomized, double-blind controlled study comparing two brands. Dermatologic Therapy. 2022; 35(9): e15695. https://doi.org/10.1111/dth.15695.
13. Kalman DS, Hewlings SJ. A Randomized Double-Blind Evaluation of a Novel Biotin and Silicon Ingredient Complex on the Hair and Skin of Healthy Women. J Clin Exp Dermatol Res. 2021; 12: 551.
14. Takamatsu CL, Menghani SV, Ibrahim R et al. Beyond Skin and Nails: The Hidden Dangers of Biotin Supplementation. Am J Med. 2023; 136(9): e175-6. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2023.03.029.
15. Gifford JL, Hossein Sadrzadeh SM et al. Biotin interference. Underrecognized patient safety risk in laboratory testing. Can Fam Physician. 2018; 64: 370.
16. Haleyur Giri Setty MH, Lee S, Lathrop J et al. Biotin Interference in Point of Care HIV Immunoassay. BioResearch Open Access. 2020; 9: 1.
2. Penberthy WT, Sadri M, Zempleni J. Chapter 17. Biotin. In: Present Knowledge in Nutrition (11th Ed.). Volume 1: Basic Nutrition and Metabolism. Marriott BP, Birt DF, Stallings VA et al. (eds.). Academic Press, 2020: 289-303. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-66162-1.00017-2.
3. Kowalska A, Bartkiewicz J, Dettlaff K. Biotyna: fakty i nadzieje. Farm Pol. 2022; 78(7): 403-11. https://doi.org/10.32383/farmpol/153566.
4. Farris PK, Engelman D, Day D et al. Natural Hair Supplements: Trends and Myths Untangled. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2023; 16(1 Suppl 1): S4-11.
5. NIH. Biotin. Fact Sheet for Health Professionals .
6. US Food and Drug Administration. CFR – Code of Federal Regulations Title 21.
7. Scientific Opinion on the safety and efficacy of biotin as a feed additive for all animal species based on a dossier submitted by VITAC EEIG. EFSA Journal 2012; 10(11): 2926.
8. CIR. Amended Safety Assessment of Biotin as Used in Cosmetics .
9. Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on cosmetic products (recast).
10. Adelman MJ, Bedford LM, Potts GA. Clinical efficacy of popular oral hair growth supplement ingredients. Int J Dermatol. 2021; 60(10): 1199-10. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijd.15344.
11. De Oliveira Valentim F, Miola AC, Amante Miot H et al. Efficacy of 5% topical minoxidil versus 5 mg oral biotin versus topical minoxidil and oral biotin on hair growth in men: randomized, crossover, clinical trial. An Bras Dermatol. 2024; 99(4): 581-4. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.abd.2023.07.008.
12. Samadi A, Ketabi Y, Firooz R et al. Efficacy of intramuscular injections of biotin and dexpanthenol in the treatment of diffuse hair loss: A randomized, double-blind controlled study comparing two brands. Dermatologic Therapy. 2022; 35(9): e15695. https://doi.org/10.1111/dth.15695.
13. Kalman DS, Hewlings SJ. A Randomized Double-Blind Evaluation of a Novel Biotin and Silicon Ingredient Complex on the Hair and Skin of Healthy Women. J Clin Exp Dermatol Res. 2021; 12: 551.
14. Takamatsu CL, Menghani SV, Ibrahim R et al. Beyond Skin and Nails: The Hidden Dangers of Biotin Supplementation. Am J Med. 2023; 136(9): e175-6. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2023.03.029.
15. Gifford JL, Hossein Sadrzadeh SM et al. Biotin interference. Underrecognized patient safety risk in laboratory testing. Can Fam Physician. 2018; 64: 370.
16. Haleyur Giri Setty MH, Lee S, Lathrop J et al. Biotin Interference in Point of Care HIV Immunoassay. BioResearch Open Access. 2020; 9: 1.