AlbarracinCA, et al. (2008). Chromium picolinate and biotin combination improves glucosemetabolism in treated, uncontrolled overweight to obese patients with type 2diabetes. [Abstract]. The following groups are among those most likely to have inadequate biotin status. Individuals with biotinidase deficiency

Biotin is available in dietary supplements containing biotin only, in supplements containing combinations of B-complex vitamins, and in some multivitamin/mineral products [ 16]. The absorption rate of oral, free biotin is 100%, even when people consume pharmacologic doses of up to 20 mg/day biotin [ 17]. Biotin Intakes and Status Geohas J, Finch M, Juturu V, et al. Improvement in Fasting Blood Glucose with the Combination of Chromium Picolinate and Biotin in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. American Diabetes Association 64th Annual Meeting, June 2004, Orlando, Florida, abstract 191-OR. Sulaiman RA. Biotin treatment causing erroneous immunoassay results: A word of caution for clinicians. Drug Discov Ther 2016;10(6):338-9. View abstract.Institute of Medicine. Food and Nutrition Board. Dietary Reference Intakes: Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline. Washington, DC: National Academy Press; 1998. Nyhan, W. L. Inborn errors of biotin metabolism. Arch.Dermatol. 1987;123(12):1696-1698a. View abstract.

Most people can get enough biotin by eating a balanced diet as it’s contained in such a wide range of foods. 14 However, particular medications, like antibiotics, or digestive conditions such as colitis, can prevent your body absorbing nutrients efficiently. These people could consider taking a supplement. 15 Should children take a biotin supplement? This is a fact sheet intended for health professionals. For a general overview of Biotin, see our consumer fact sheet on Biotin. Introduction Sedel, F., Lyon-Caen, O., and Saudubray, J. M. [Treatable hereditary neuro-metabolic diseases]. Rev.Neurol.(Paris) 2007;163(10):884-896. View abstract. As a result, it’s important to talk with a healthcare professional before taking a biotin supplement.Chronic exposure to alcohol inhibits the absorption of biotin [ 21]. Plasma biotin concentrations are low in 15% of people with chronic alcoholism [ 12]. Pregnant and breastfeeding women The bottom line: Biotin can only impact hair growth if there is an existing biotin deficiency. Taking extra biotin supplements does not lead to extra nutrient-based hair growth. 8 How much biotin should I take for hair? Many foods contain some biotin. You can get recommended amounts of biotin by eating a variety of foods, including the following: