Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)
About Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)
Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)
Overview
Pantothenic acid, also known as vitamin B5, is a water-soluble B vitamin essential for human health. It plays a critical role in synthesizing coenzyme A (CoA), a vital cofactor involved in cellular energy production and the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats1. Pantothenic acid is found in almost all foods, reflecting its name derived from the Greek word \"pantothen,\" meaning \"from everywhere\"1. Historically, it was identified as a factor preventing dermatitis in chicks and later recognized as an essential nutrient for humans. Deficiency is extremely rare and usually occurs only in cases of severe malnutrition such as kwashiorkor or marasmus2.
Forms and Variations
Pantothenic acid is available in several forms for supplementation and food fortification. The most common form used in supplements is calcium pantothenate, favored for its chemical stability and longer shelf life compared to free pantothenic acid or sodium pantothenate1. Another form is d-panthenol (pantothenol), a provitamin that the body converts into pantothenic acid, often used in topical applications for skin health. Supplements may come as capsules, tablets, or liquids, and formulations sometimes combine vitamin B5 with other B-complex vitamins to support overall metabolic function3.
Dosage and Administration
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for pantothenic acid is 5 mg daily for adults, with slightly higher amounts recommended during pregnancy (6 mg) and lactation (7 mg)4. Pantothenic acid is typically taken once daily with meals to enhance absorption and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. Because it is water-soluble, excess amounts are generally excreted in urine, making toxicity rare. Supplementation is mainly used to prevent or treat deficiency, which is uncommon in well-nourished individuals2.
Scientific Research and Mechanism of Action
Pantothenic acid is a precursor to coenzyme A (CoA) and acyl carrier protein, both essential for fatty acid metabolism and energy production13. CoA participates in the synthesis and oxidation of fatty acids, the Krebs cycle for ATP generation, and the metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids. Research has confirmed its role in reducing fatigue by supporting energy metabolism and in the biosynthesis of essential lipids, steroid hormones, neurotransmitters, and porphyrins3. Current studies also explore its potential in wound healing and diabetic neuropathy, although evidence remains preliminary2.
Benefits and Potential Uses
Proven benefits of pantothenic acid include its essential function in energy metabolism and maintaining healthy skin, muscles, and the digestive system2. It is medically used to treat rare pantothenic acid deficiency and has been investigated for managing paralytic ileus and diabetic neuropathy2. Some unproven claims suggest it may enhance athletic performance and accelerate wound healing, but these require further research. Its role in synthesizing hormones and neurotransmitters also suggests potential benefits in stress response and mental performance3.
Side Effects and Risks
Pantothenic acid is generally well tolerated with minimal side effects. High doses may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea or nausea. Because deficiency is rare, supplementation risks are low, but excessive intake beyond recommended levels should be avoided. Individuals with allergies to supplement components or those with specific medical conditions should consult healthcare providers before use5.
Interactions and Precautions
There are no well-documented significant drug interactions with pantothenic acid. However, as with all supplements, caution is advised when taken alongside prescription medications. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should adhere to recommended dosages. No special precautions are generally required for medical procedures, but disclosure to healthcare providers is recommended to avoid potential interactions5.
Impact on Biomarkers
Supplementation with pantothenic acid may influence biomarkers related to energy metabolism, such as improved fatty acid oxidation and possibly reduced markers of fatigue. However, it does not typically alter standard blood tests significantly. Its role in coenzyme A synthesis supports normal metabolic function reflected indirectly in metabolic health markers1.
Overdose and Toxicity
Overdose of pantothenic acid is rare due to its water solubility and efficient renal excretion. Symptoms of excessive intake may include diarrhea and gastrointestinal discomfort. No established toxic dose exists, but intakes above 10 grams per day have been associated with mild adverse effects. Staying within recommended limits ensures safety5.
References
- \"Pantothenic acid.\" Wikipedia, 29 May 2002. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pantothenic_acid
- \"Pantothenic Acid.\" University of Rochester Medical Center Encyclopedia. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content?contenttypeid=19&contentid=vitaminb-5
- \"Vitamin B5 - DSM.\" DSM Nutritional Products. https://www.dsm.com/content/dam/dsm/meat-alternatives/documents/Vitamin-B5.pdf
- \"Pantothenic Acid – Vitamin B5.\" Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, 22 July 2025. https://nutritionsource.hsph.harvard.edu/pantothenic-acid-vitamin-b5/
- \"Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) - Uses, Side Effects, and More.\" WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-853/pantothenic-acid-vitamin-b5
Disclaimer
The information provided in this document is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Products
| Name | Brand | Serving Size | Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi B Complex | Nature's Bounty | 1.00 tablet | |
| BioActive B Complex | Life Extension | 1.00 capsule | |
| Raw B Complex | Garden of Life | 1.00 capsule | |
| Vegan B Complex | NOW Foods | 1.00 tablet | |
| B-Complex Plus | Pure Encapsulations | 1.00 capsule |
Supplement Interactions
Avoid Taking With
High caffeine intake may increase urinary excretion of water-soluble vitamins including pantothenic acid, potentially reducing its efficacy; evidence is limited and dose-dependent.
Confidence: Low confidence due to limited direct clinical evidence; mostly observational data.Supplementing isolated pantothenic acid with Methyl B Complex can cause competitive absorption and imbalance among B vitamins, potentially reducing efficacy.
Confidence: High confidence from expert consensus and supplementation research.Recommended to Take With
Pantothenic acid and biotin are both water-soluble B vitamins involved in energy metabolism and coenzyme functions. They often coexist in B-complex supplements and may have synergistic effects on metabolic pathways without competitive absorption interference.
Confidence: Moderate confidence based on mechanistic plausibility and common co-formulation in B-complex supplements; limited direct clinical interaction studies.Pantothenic acid is a component of B-complex vitamins; co-administration ensures balanced intake of B vitamins supporting complementary metabolic roles without absorption competition.
Confidence: High confidence from multiple clinical studies and standard supplement formulations.Pantothenic acid and biotin are both B vitamins involved in energy metabolism. They have complementary roles and taking them together can support metabolic pathways without known negative interactions.
Confidence: High confidence based on biochemical pathways and clinical supplementation studies.Pantothenic acid and biotin are both B-vitamins involved in energy metabolism and fatty acid synthesis. They have complementary roles and can be taken together to support metabolic pathways without negative interactions.
Confidence: High confidence from biochemical and clinical research on B-vitamin synergy.Pantothenic acid supports coenzyme A synthesis, complementing choline's role in lipid metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis.
Confidence: Moderate evidence from metabolic pathway studies.Pantothenic acid supports coenzyme A synthesis and energy metabolism, potentially synergistic with choline's metabolic roles.
Confidence: Moderate evidence from biochemical studies.Pantothenic acid and riboflavin are complementary B vitamins with distinct absorption mechanisms, supporting co-administration without negative interactions.
Confidence: Based on established B vitamin co-supplementation studies.Pantothenic acid works synergistically with riboflavin in coenzyme A synthesis and energy metabolism; combined intake supports metabolic health.
Confidence: High confidence based on metabolic pathway studies.Pantothenic acid works synergistically with riboflavin in coenzyme A synthesis and energy metabolism. Co-supplementation supports metabolic pathways without absorption interference.
Confidence: Supported by biochemical and clinical evidencePantothenic acid is another B vitamin that complements thiamine in coenzyme A synthesis and energy metabolism. Co-supplementation is common and beneficial without absorption competition.
Confidence: Supported by biochemical and clinical evidence.Pantothenic acid and thiamine are part of the B-vitamin complex supporting energy metabolism. Co-supplementation is standard and does not cause absorption issues.
Confidence: Well-established in nutritional science and supplementation practice.Pantothenic acid and riboflavin are complementary B vitamins involved in coenzyme A synthesis and energy metabolism. Co-supplementation supports metabolic functions without absorption interference.
Confidence: Supported by biochemical and clinical evidence.Pantothenic acid and Vitamin B6 are part of the B-vitamin complex with complementary roles; no known adverse interactions or absorption issues.
Confidence: Low-level evidence from general B-vitamin supplementation studies.Requires Separate Timing
Calcium can interfere with the absorption of some water-soluble vitamins by forming insoluble complexes or altering gastrointestinal pH, potentially reducing pantothenic acid bioavailability.
Confidence: Moderate confidence based on mineral-vitamin absorption competition studies; direct pantothenic acid-calcium interaction data limited.Iron and pantothenic acid may compete for absorption pathways in the intestine, as iron can inhibit absorption of some water-soluble vitamins; timing separation can reduce this effect.
Confidence: Moderate confidence from studies on iron interactions with B vitamins; specific pantothenic acid data extrapolated.High doses of magnesium may interfere with absorption of some water-soluble vitamins, but evidence for pantothenic acid interaction is limited and mostly theoretical.
Confidence: Low confidence due to limited direct research on pantothenic acid and magnesium interaction.All Time Users
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