Introduction

Because pantothenic acid is present in all cells, the man who discovered it in 1933, Dr. Roger Williams, named it after the greek word pantothen, meaning “everywhere.” Pantothenic acid plays a number of essential metabolic roles including the production of some hormones and neurotransmitters. It is also involved in the metabolism of all carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

The best sources of pantothenic acid include eggs, liver, fish, chicken, whole grain breads, cereals and legumes. Other good sources are cauliflower, broccoli, lean beef, white and sweet potatoes, and tomatoes.

Dosage Info

Dosage Range

5-20mg daily. Doses as high as 2,000mg have been used for rheumatoid arthritis. (1)

Most Common Dosage

15mg daily

15mg pantothenic acid = 16.3mg calcium pantothenate

Dosage Forms

Tablets, capsules, liquids, liposomal sprays, and effervescent tablets. Dexpanthenol is available in injectable and topical dosage forms (Rx only).

Interactions and Depletions

Depletions

• Salicylates

Reported Uses

In addition to its role in metabolism, pantothenic acid supports proper function of the adrenal gland and is required for production of adrenal hormones. (2) Pantothenic acid also supports the production of healthy red blood cells and it may help the body rid itself of alcohol-related toxins. (3) , (4)

Pantothenic acid may also support health in people with allergies while speeding wound healing and recovery from surgery, especially when taken in concert with vitamin C. (5) , (6) Vitamin B5 accelerated wound healing of conjunctiva and the cornea after surgery. (7) It may also ease constipation. (8)

Pantothenic acid deficiencies have been associated with acne and arthritis. (9) , (10) Supplementation may offer treatment for these disorders. Another form of pantothenic acid, pantothine, may reduce cholesterol levels and support cardiovascular health.

 

Toxicities & Precautions

Introduction

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General

This dietary supplement is considered safe when used in accordance with proper dosing guidelines.

Side Effects

Occasional side effects reported with large doses of this dietary supplement include diarrhea. It may be necessary to reduce the dose of this dietary supplement. Tell your doctor if these side effects become severe or do not go away.

Pregnancy / Breast Feeding

To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects related to fetal development during pregnancy or to infants who are breast-fed. Proper nutrition is essential during pregnancy for the healthy development of the fetus. Numerous vitamins and minerals are a vital part of proper nutrition. If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breast-feeding an infant, talk to your healthcare professional about supplementing your diet with appropriate vitamins and minerals.

Age Limitations

To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects specifically related to the use of this dietary supplement in children. Vitamins and minerals are an essential part of proper growth and development. Talk to your healthcare professional about the appropriate use of vitamins and minerals in children. Do not use any vitamin or mineral in children under 2 years of age unless first discussed with your healthcare professional.

References

1. Calcium pantothenate in arthritic condtions. A report from the General Practitioner Research Group. Practitioner. 1980;224:208-211.
2. View Abstract: Tarasov I, et al. Adrenal Cortex Functional Activity in Pantothenate Deficiency and the Administration of the Vitamin or Its Derivatives. Vopr Pitan. Aug1985;(4):51-54.
3. View Abstract: Moiseenok AG, et al. The Protective Effect of Pantothenic Acid Derivatives and Changes in the System of Acetyl CoA Metabolism in Acute Ethanol Poisoning. Farmakol Toksikol. Oct1988;51(5):82-86.
4. View Abstract: Chernikevich IP, et al. Possible ways of regulating detoxifying processes in the alcohol dehydrogenase reaction with pantothenic acid derivatives. Vopr Med Khim. Mar1993;39(2):38-40.
5. Martin W. On Treating Allergic Disorders. Townsend Letter for Doctors. Sep1991:670-71.
6. View Abstract: Lacroix B, et al. Role of Pantothenic and Ascorbic Acid in Wound Healing Processes: In Vitro Study on Fibroblasts. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 1988;58(4):407-13.
7. View Abstract: Raczynska K, Iwaszkiewicz-Bilikiewicz B, Stozkowska W, Sadlak-Nowicka J. Clinical evaluation of provitamin B5 drops and gel for postoperative treatment of corneal and conjuctival injuries. Klin Oczna. 2003;105(3-4):175-8.
8. Guillard O, et al. Treatment of Constipation with Vitamin B5 or Dexpanthenol. Med Chir Dig. 1979;8(7):671-74.
9. View Abstract: Leung LH. Pantothenic Acid Deficiency as the Pathogenesis of Acne Vulgaris. Medical Hypothesis. Jun1995;44(6):490-92.
10. General Practitioner Research Group. Calcium Pantothenate in Arthritic Conditions. Practitioner. Feb1980;224(1340):208-11.