Popular supplement may reduce cancer treatment effectiveness, scientists have found

Biotin, which many oncology patients take to strengthen their hair and nails, can distort laboratory test results and prevent doctors from correctly assessing the course of the disease. Oncologists from the Ohio State University Medical Center came to this conclusion, pointing out the risk of erroneous clinical decisions when interpreting blood indicators.

As reported by BAKU.WS with reference to JCO Oncology Practice, biotin (vitamin B7) itself does not directly affect hormones or tumor markers, but it can disrupt laboratory tests based on biotin-dependent reactions. As a result, indicators may be falsely elevated or, conversely, lowered.

It is noted that this presents the greatest danger when monitoring patients with breast, prostate, thyroid, and ovarian cancers. In these cases, blood tests play a key role in evaluating the effectiveness of therapy and early detection of recurrences, and distortions can lead to delayed treatment or incorrect assessment of the patient's condition.

However, there is still no convincing evidence that biotin actually helps with hair loss during anti-tumor therapy. Doctors emphasize that many patients start taking the supplement on their own - based on advice from the internet or acquaintances, without informing their treating physician.

Researchers remind that even vitamins and dietary supplements can be unsafe for oncological diseases. As a more reliable alternative for combating hair loss, specialists recommend minoxidil - a product with proven effectiveness, and strongly recommend discussing any supplements and medications with a doctor during and after cancer treatment.