Biotin is a water-soluble B-complex vitamin made up of a tetrahydroimidizalone ring fused with a tetrahydrothiophene ring, and a valeric acid side chain. It is crucial for catalyzing metabolic reactions such as fatty acid synthesis, gluconeogenesis, and leucine metabolism. Biotin deficiency is rare but may occur in individuals consuming large amounts of raw egg whites or those on long-term TPN. Biotin is often administered through IV drip or IV infusion drip for more immediate therapeutic action.
Clinical Pharmacology:
Biotin plays an essential role in cell growth, fatty acid synthesis, and the metabolism of fats and amino acids. It participates in the citric acid cycle, contributing to energy production during aerobic respiration. Biotin also assists in various metabolic reactions, transferring carbon dioxide through carboxylase enzymes, and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. IV drip therapy can be used to support biotin levels in deficient individuals.
Indications and Usage:
Biotin is effective in treating and preventing biotin deficiency. Symptoms of deficiency include hair thinning, loss of hair color, a red macular rash, depression, and lethargy. Studies have shown that biotin can improve insulin sensitivity and lower triglyceride levels in diabetic patients. For individuals with severe deficiencies, an IV infusion drip containing biotin may be recommended.
Contraindications, Warnings, and Precautions:
There is no evidence of hypersensitivity to biotin.
Adverse Reactions:
No adverse effects have been reported with biotin intake up to 10 mg daily, even when administered through an IV drip.
Overdosage:
No known cases of biotin overdose or toxicity have been reported.
Dosage and Administration:
A daily dose of 200-300 micrograms is effective in alleviating deficiency symptoms in both children and adults on long-term TPN. Biotin can be administered through a multivitamin infusion, typically added to an IV drip or IV infusion drip.
How Supplied:
Biotin is available in multivitamin infusions, with a concentration of 60 micrograms per mL, for administration via an IV drip or IV infusion drip.