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Biotin

Brand names: Hair, skin, and nails supplements

Biotin is a B vitamin. Deficiency is rare, and high-dose supplements for hair and nails can cause false lab results.

Brand namesHair, skin, and nails supplements
Type of medicineVitamin B7 supplement
Prescription?Over the counter (dietary supplement)
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

High doses can make thyroid, troponin (heart attack), and other tests falsely high or low.

What it's used for

  • Biotin deficiency (rare)

How to take it

  • Tell your provider and lab if you take biotin; you may need to stop it 2 to 3 days before blood tests.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Usually none
Call 911Chest pain even if a heart test was normal; tell the ER you take biotin

Warnings

  • Evidence for hair and nail benefit in people without deficiency is weak.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Some seizure medicines lower biotin levels.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Usual prenatal amounts are fine.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.