Authors
Koutsikos D. Agroyannis B. Tzanatos-Exarchou H.
Institution
University of Athens, Aretaieon University Hospital, Greece.
Title
Biotin for diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Source
Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. 44(10):511-4, 1990.
Abstract
Biotin in high doses was given for 1-2 years to three
diabetic patients suffering from severe diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
Within 4-8 weeks there was a marked improvement in clinical and laboratory
findings. It is suggested that in diabetes may exist a
deficiency, inactivity or unavailability of Biotin,
resulting in disordered activity of biotin-dependent enzyme,
pyruvate carboxylase, leading to accumulation of pyruvate and/or depletion of
aspartate, both of which play a significant role in nervous system
metabolism. Based on our good results, regular biotin
administration could be suggested for every diabetic patient for the
prevention and management of peripheral neuropathy although extensive
randomised clinical trials are required.