Pantothenic Acid

Pantothenic acid is vitamin B5. It is widely found in both plants and animals including meat, vegetables, cereal grains, legumes, eggs, and milk.

Pantothenic acid helps the body utilize carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. It is also important for maintaining healthy skin. Vitamin B5 is available as D-pantothenic acid, as well as dexpanthenol and calcium pantothenate, which are chemicals made in the lab from D-pantothenic acid.

People most commonly use pantothenic acid for pantothenic acid deficiency. Dexpanthenol, a chemical similar to pantothenic acid, is used for skin irritation, nasal swelling, wound healing, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

When taken by mouth: Pantothenic acid is likely safe for most people. The recommended amount for adults is 5 mg per day. Larger amounts (up to 1 gram) seem to be safe for most people. But taking larger amounts increases the chance of side effects such as diarrhea.

When applied to the skin: Dexpanthenol, a chemical similar to pantothenic acid, is possibly safe when used short-term.

When given as a nasal spray: Dexpanthenol is possibly safe when used short-term.

When applied into the eye: Dexpanthenol is possibly safe when used short-term.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pantothenic acid is widely found in foods, including meat, vegetables, cereal grains, legumes, eggs, and milk. It's recommended that adults consume 5 mg pantothenic acid daily. When pregnant, 6 mg should be consumed daily; when breastfeeding, 7 mg should be consumed daily. Recommended amounts for children depend on age.

In supplements, pantothenic acid is typically used together with other B vitamins in vitamin B complex formulations. Dexpanthenol, a chemical similar to pantothenic acid, is available as ointments, creams, gels, nasal sprays and eyedrops. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

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