Biotin

Biotin (less commonly known as vitamin B₇) is a water-soluble vitamin, part of the vitamin B complex, and a coenzyme for many reactions, including gluconeogenesis and the synthesis of fatty acids and amino acids.

Biotin deficiency is very rare.

Biotin excess does not seem to produce any ill-effects ³. However large doses of biotin in those on vitamin supplements may interfere with biochemical assays leading to misdiagnoses e.g. hyperthyroidism ⁴.

Recent work suggests that biotin may have a role in the treatment of secondary progressive multiple sclerosis ⁵.

Interestingly, it was formerly known as vitamin H or coenzyme R.