7 Unexpected Dangerous Side Effects Of Taking Biotin
ByCARINA WOLFF
Biotin is a popular supplement for those who are looking to improve their skin or grow their hair and nails, but just with any supplement, it’s important to be aware of how it could negatively impact your body. There are a number of unexpected negative side effects of taking biotin, and it’s good to be aware of them before you start a regimen. Not all these things will necessarily happen just because you take biotin, but before you begin ingesting the supplements, you should always proceed with caution.
“Those with biotin deficiency may potentially benefit from biotin supplementation for their condition,” Dr. Nesochi Okeke-Igbokwe tells Bustle. “It is generally deemed safe as long as you are taking the recommended dosage prescribed by your doctor. Biotin has grown in popularity though for generally health individuals trying to strengthen their nails and promote the growth of their hair. More scientific studies are really needed to confirm the efficacy of biotin for this purpose.”
As useful as biotin can be, it can also come with some unwanted side effects. When in doubt, always consult with a physician before beginning a biotin regimen to be safe. Here are seven unexpected — and potentially dangerous —side effects of taking biotin, according to experts.
1. Acne
Too much biotin can cause cystic acne that develops along the chin and jawline. “Although this is not considered ‘dangerous’ it is a side effect that can impact your life — cystic acne can be painful — and self-esteem,” Dr. Melanie Kingsley, dermatologist at IU Health, tells Bustle.
2. Skewed Lab Results
“If you are taking very high levels of biotin, it may potentially skew the results of certain lab values such as cardiac troponins (a marker used to help diagnose a heart attack) and thyroid hormone studies,” Okeke-Igbokwe. “This may potentially contribute to a misdiagnosis. It is extremely important to always indicate to your doctor every medication you are taking, including any over the counter supplementation whenever you are getting blood work done.”
3. Increased Blood Sugar Levels
Biotin can cause a slower release of insulin and increase of blood sugar levels, which is particularly important to diabetic patients or people with high blood pressure. “A slower release of insulin can lead to higher blood pressure, which can lead to clots or stroke (if not monitored closely),” says Kingsley. “Untreated high blood sugar can be dangerous for diabetic patients, possibly leading to a serious condition called ketoacidosis. Thus, diabetic patients or those with high blood pressure should be careful with biotin dosage to avoid complications.”
4. Upset Stomach
Taking biotin may also wreak havoc on your digestive system. “Some people can experience stomach discomfort from taking biotin, including nausea, cramping, and diarrhea,” Dr. Tania Elliott tells Bustle.
5. Allergic Reaction
This is more common in those with an allergy to Vitamin B12 or cobalt. That said, an allergic reaction to biotin will often include nausea, a rash, or swelling of the throat and face. While manageable, allergic reactions can become very dangerous if not addressed by a medical professional.
6. Skin Rash
Negative skin reactions can also occur as a result of taking biotin. “There have been instances of severe skin rashes from biotin, where blood vessels can become inflamed because the immune system perceives the biotin as something foreign,” says Elliott.
7. Interactions With Medications
Biotin can cause interactions with medications, including those for cholesterol, diabetes, and anticonvulsants, and can lower the effectiveness of these drugs. “Any interaction with a medication can potentially be dangerous to a patient, which is why it is very important to discuss all of your medications and supplements with your doctor,” says Kingsley.
Many people take biotin with no issue, but it’s always important to talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing anything out of the ordinary.
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9 Comments
Biotin supplements causes me severe cramping and pain for hours at the same time it definitely helps my hair skin and Nails. I really see a difference but it hurts me so bad. I will be in severe and excruciating pain. Is there something else that I can take that will give me the same great benefits of biotin?
I’m on the same boat I couldn’t figure out why my stomach was cramping non stop and bloated and sudden acne break out. I looked at the Ingredients in the new anser gummies I bought and sure enough biotin over 500 %of daily value. I’m going back to collagen works just as well.
I started taking biotin. A month or so into it I started having Charlie horse attacks. Was extremely painful. I could not control my body. From the tip of my left toe all the way up through my left side to the back of my neck. Every time I moved it would happen. This was extremely frightening. I couldn’t believe what it did to me. I ended up getting to emergency screaming in the er from so much pain. I knew it was from the biotin. I had to take a leave from my work. As it left my system the body cramping slowly disappeared. I also have hashimotos and type 1 diabetes.
I’ve been telling doctors for years Bioin is what was causing my cystic acne but they still always look at me perplexed. I’m supposed to be taking a B Complex but I can’t find one without biotin. Do you have any suggestions?
Biotin at 10000mcg, 5000 mcg, 2500 mcg, 1000 mcg, and 250 mcg caused horrible steatorrhea and need for diapers. When I stopped the biotin, my body slowly returned to normal.
Well I just started yesterday so fat ok I hope I am not going to have issues later on.
Feel better everyone
Couldn’t figure out why I had these awful, swollen, acne lesions all over the back of my neck. I take biotin with my regular meds, but increased it for hair & nails. I also had constipation, acid indigestion, itchy skin, other suspicious side effects, such as excessive hunger. Stopped the over-the-counter supplements immediately. It did, however make my hair longer and thicker.
This also happened to me no matter the dosage, vitamin brand, or whether gummy or pill form. Stomach cramping and then steatorrhea after about 10 days. Absolutely shocking! I will never take biotin again.
My red blood cells were out of normal range. High. Stopped taking biotin and it came back down.