Biotin: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Biotin is a B vitamin (vitamin B7) supplement. It is used for biotin deficiency and hair, skin and nail support. In Pakistan it is available as tablets and sachets, made by 7 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Biotin works
Biotin, or vitamin B7, works as a helper for enzymes that break down fats, carbohydrates and proteins to release energy. It is also involved in producing keratin, the main structural protein of hair, skin and nails. The body gets most of its biotin from food and gut bacteria.
What is Biotin used for?
- Biotin deficiency and hair
- Skin
- Nail support
Biotin is used to prevent and treat biotin deficiency, which can cause thinning hair, a scaly red rash around the eyes, nose and mouth, and brittle nails. It is also widely taken as a supplement for brittle nails, hair and skin, although there is little evidence that it helps people who are not deficient. True deficiency is uncommon and can occur with some inherited conditions, long-term use of certain epilepsy medicines or prolonged tube feeding.
Side effects of Biotin
Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin and is generally very well tolerated. Occasionally it may cause:
- Mild stomach upset
- Nausea
- Loose stools
- Skin rash (rare)
Stop taking it and seek help if you develop swelling of the face or throat or difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor before any blood tests, as high-strength biotin can give falsely high or low results for thyroid, hormone and heart (troponin) tests.
Precautions and warnings
- Tell your doctor and the laboratory that you take Biotin before blood tests; you may be asked to stop it for a few days beforehand.
- Hair loss and brittle nails can have many causes, such as iron deficiency or thyroid problems, so see a doctor if they continue.
- Some epilepsy medicines can lower biotin levels, so mention these if you take them.
- Choose products from reputable manufacturers and do not take more than the amount stated on the pack.
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your pharmacist or doctor before taking high-strength supplements.
Frequently asked questions about Biotin
What is the price of Biotin in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Biotin products currently in stock range from Rs 1,495 to Rs 8,710 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Herbiotics Biotin Plus 2500mcg at Rs 1,495. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Biotin are available in Pakistan?
Biotin is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Herbiotics (Herbiotics Health Care), Nutrifactor (Nutrifactor), Biotin and Edetin.Do I need a prescription for Biotin?
Biotin is generally available without a prescription. Read the leaflet before use and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially for children, during pregnancy, or if you take other medicines.
Can Biotin be used during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your pharmacist or doctor before taking high-strength supplements.
Biotin brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 11 products containing Biotin from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
