When it comes to your health, even the slightest inaccuracy can make a substantial difference. Being under or over treated for a condition can be dangerous. If you need bloodwork drawn, chances are you want the lab results to be accurate.
Biotin, or B-7, has been discovered by the FDA to yield incorrect lab results when taken at high levels. This can be a big issue when you consider how many products B-7 is in. Biotin is a popular supplement as it aids in the health of hair, nails and skin. It is marketed as a beauty product in high dosages and can be found in pre-natal or multi-vitamins.
Which Tests Could Be Affected?
The FDA says it affects immunoassay tests. Immunoassay is a procedure that measures specific proteins or substances and reports levels of hormones (such as in a thyroid test) or troponin levels. Troponin is a biomarker for heart attacks.
How Do I Protect Myself?
The first line of defense is being educated. Knowing that B vitamins can affect lab results is a major step in prevention. In addition, it’s important to know what is in the products you are taking. Read the small print. Make sure you are aware if biotin is an ingredient.
Notify the Professionals
If you are taking any products with biotin, make sure you tell your health practitioner before any tests are conducted. They may ask you to discontinue the product. This is crucial information to have if any lab results came back different than expected.
At Clinica Las Americas, our family is ready to welcome you for all of your health care needs. We offer services such as acute medical care, thyroid disease treatment and controlling cholesterol and diabetes. Come see us in our Long Point or Telephone location.