-5%
Biotin is an essential vitamin that is also known as vitamin H. It is involved in vital physiological functions like fatty acid synthesis, amino acid catabolism, and gluconeogenesis. It acts as a cofactor in the enzymatic carboxylation of pyruvate and acetyl-CoA. Biotin influences the growth and differentiation of epidermal cells and is therefore important for the formation and renewal of the skin, hair, and nails. It functions as a coenzyme for mitochondrial carboxylases in hair roots and improves the keratin structure. Biotin deficiency may result in hair loss and a variety of systemic symptoms such as dermatitis and aciduria. Biotin is one of the most prescribed nutritional supplements for any kind of hair loss.
Biotin dose varies depending on disease condition and age group.
In adults: Generally 1-3 tablets per day or as advised by the physician.
In children, biotin deficiency affects between 1 week and 2 years of age and usually exhibits seizures, hypotonia, developmental delay, ataxia, hyperventilation, and coma. In this case, 5-10 tablets daily, crushed and mixed with water or any kind of fruit juice, or as advised by the physician.
Recommended dietary allowance:
Infants-
- 0-6 months: 5 mcg/day
- 7-12 months: 6 mcg/day
Children-
- 1-3 years: 8 mcg/day
- 4-8 years: 12 mcg/day
Males and females-
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- 9-13 years: 20 mcg/day
- 14-18 years: 25 mcg/day
- ≥19 years: 30 mcg/day
Pregnancy: 30 mcg/day
Lactation: 35 mcg/day