Avoiding biotin side effects is fairly simple, as problems almost never arise when the vitamin is taken in the appropriate amounts. In addition to making sure you follow the recommended dosage, use caution if you are taking it for long periods of time, as patients have reported problems including infections, rashes, and increased blood sugar when doing so. It is also possible for biotin to interact negatively with certain drugs, including alcohol, antibiotics, and lipid-lowering medications. To be safe, you should probably speak to your doctor about taking biotin to ensure you are taking the right amount and do not have any risk factors.
The best way to avoid biotin side effects is to take the correct amount. Taking biotin at the recommended dosage is considered safe, and some people can take even more and still be fine. Problems are actually more likely to arise if you have a biotin deficiency, which can cause hair loss, rash, and depression. For the average adult, 30 mcg of biotin a day is sufficient. Your body manufactures biotin on its own, and you may also get some from food, so talk to your doctor about how much you actually need.
Another consideration if you want to avoid biotin side effects is how long you are taking the supplement. This will of course depend on why you need extra biotin; for example, if you are taking it for a deficiency during pregnancy, your time using it will naturally be limited. People who have been on biotin for long periods have reported problems at times. These include relatively minor problems like skin rashes and infections to more serious problems such as a decrease in insulin production and increased blood sugar levels, which can damage the body. Again, make sure to consult with your physician to ensure you are not at risk.
You also need to evaluate whether any other drugs you are taking can cause biotin side effects. Research has shown that biotin can interact with a number of substances including alcohol, antibiotics, and anti-seizure medications. The effects of lipid-lowering medications may also be increased by an interaction with biotin. Your doctor will need to know about any drugs that you are taking so he or she can evaluate how they might affect each other and determine what dosage, if any, will work best for you.
