Biotin Supplements Under Scrutiny: Hidden Risks for Cancer Patients

Hair growth supplements under scrutiny for cancer patients

Cancer patients often face numerous challenges, including hair loss due to chemotherapy.

Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, has been touted as a solution to promote hair growth and thickness, but some experts warn of its potential risks.

According to an expert in oncodermatology at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, biotin can lead to inaccurate lab test results that may compromise treatment plans.

“Biotin interferes with the measurement of hormone levels in blood work,” said Dr. Brittany Dulmage, associate director of dermatology and director of the Oncodermatology Clinic.

Here's what you need to know about biotin supplements for hair growth.

The role of biotin in human health

Biotin is a water-soluble B-complex vitamin that plays a crucial role in energy production and metabolism.

It also supports the formation of keratin, an essential protein for maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails.

Biotin is naturally found in various foods, including egg yolks, organ meats, nuts, seeds, and sweet potatoes.

Due to its widespread availability, biotin deficiency is relatively rare.

Dulmage noted that a deficiency can manifest as vision problems, hearing loss, seizures, muscle weakness, or developmental delays.

Possible skin issues, such as rashes resembling eczema, and extensive hair loss may also occur.

The risks of biotin supplements in cancer patients

Biotin can significantly interfere with hormone and cardiac lab tests, potentially affecting the treatment of various cancers, including thyroid, ovarian, breast, and prostate cancer.

“For some hormones, such as PSA or TSH, it may falsely suppress levels, masking cancer recurrence in survivors,” Dulmage explained.

Conversely, biotin may falsely elevate reproductive hormone levels, delaying therapy.

Even for non-cancer patients, biotin supplements can lead to inaccuracies in thyroid testing, at-home pregnancy testing, and cardiac troponin testing.

Dulmage advises stopping biotin supplements 72 hours before blood work if possible.

Safe alternatives for hair growth in cancer patients

For those seeking to prevent or minimize hair loss during chemotherapy, Dulmage recommends topical minoxidil (Rogaine) or low-dose treatments unless pregnant or breastfeeding.

Cooling scalp caps can also be effective by limiting chemotherapy medication exposure to hair follicle cells.

Other supplements to avoid in cancer patients

Many patients unknowingly take supplements that may interact with their treatment plans, including:

• Saw palmetto, found in hair, skin, and nail supplements, which can increase estrogen levels and affect hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer.
• Vitamin B12 taken before or during chemotherapy has been associated with poorer disease-free survival and overall survival rates.
• Iron supplementation before or during chemotherapy may increase the risk of breast cancer recurrence.

Dulmage emphasizes the importance of disclosing supplement use to oncology teams, allowing them to confirm acceptability and recommend alternative treatments if needed.