Image for Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA)
Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA)
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Related Terms

  • 2,3,5,6-Tetrafluorophenyl n-(s-benzoylthioacetyl)glycylglycyl-p-aminobenzoate, 4-aminobenzoic acid, 4-aminobenzoic acid hydrazide, ABAH, Actipol®, Aktipol®, aminobenzoate potassium, aminobenzoic acid, BAB, BT-PABA, buytl aminobenzoate, cyclic amino acid, disulfate ester of ursodeoxycholyl-p-aminobenzoic acid, disulphate ester of ursodeoxycholyl-p-aminobenzoic acid, ester oxybenzone, ethyl p-aminobenzoate, ethyl dihydroxypropylaminobenzoate, glyceryl para-aminobenzoate, KPAB, K-para-aminobenzoate, monoglyceryl para-aminobenzoate, n-benzyol-l-tyrosyl-p-aminobenzoic acid, NBT-PABA, n-butyl-p-aminobenzoate, n-diethyl-methyl-ammonium ethyl bromide-p-[2(n-octyloxy)-benzoyl-]aminobenzoate, octyl dimethyl PABA, PABA ester, Pabafil®, PABA-UDCA, padimate O, PAMBA, p-aminobenzoic acid, para aminobenzoic acid, para-aminobenzoate, para-aminobenzoate potassium, paraaminobenzoic acid, para-aminobenzoic acid, para-aminomethylbenzoic acid, PEG-25 PABAs, Peptide-PABA, Photoplex, POTABA®, potassium para-aminobenzoate, synthetic peptide Bz-Ty PABA, UDCA-PABA, ursodeoxycholic acid-p-aminobenzoic acid, vitamin Bx, vitamin H.
  • Metabolites: Para-acetoamidobenzoic acid (PAABA), para-acetamidohippuric acid (PAAHA), para-aminohippuric acid (PAHA).
  • Derivatives of PABA commonly used for therapeutic purposes: BAB (butyl aminobenzoate, for epidural injection), KPAB (potassium para-aminobenzoate, for taking by mouth), padimate O (PABA ester, for use on the outside of the body), PAMBA (para-aminomethylbenzoic acid, for taking by mouth or intramuscular use).

Background

  • Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is a naturally occurring nonprotein amino acid. Although early studies suggested that PABA was a B vitamin, PABA is now known to be neither a vitamin nor an essential nutrient. Although dietary PABA deficiency is not an issue in humans, PABA is found in foods such as liver, kidney, wheat germ, bran, and yogurt. Sulfonamide antibiotics interfere with the reproduction of some bacteria by interfering with PABA conversion into folic acid, the latter of which is required for DNA synthesis.
  • Historical uses of PABA included treatment of hair loss and restoration of color to graying hair, with variable effectiveness. PABA first emerged as a sunscreen after World War II due to its ability to absorb ultraviolet B light. However, it was soon recognized that PABA was a "sensitizer" and stimulated allergic reactions. PABA was also suspected of being a causative agent in several autoimmune diseases. Consequently, PABA gradually ceased to be used in sunscreens, which were then marketed as being "PABA free."
  • PABA has also been used in a variety of diagnostic laboratory tests and as a structural component of many drugs. PABA has shown promise as a potential treatment for melasma. Melasma is a darkening of the skin in sun-exposed areas of the body, particularly the face. When melasma occurs in pregnant women, it is known as "the mask of pregnancy." PABA has also shown promise in the treatment of inflamed corneas associated with a herpes virus infection and in the prevention of recurrent herpes infections that cause sores on the mouth, lips, and gums.

Evidence

  • Content available for subscribers only.

Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

  • Content available for subscribers only.

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

  • Content available for subscribers only.

Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

  • Content available for subscribers only.

Author Information

  • Content available for subscribers only.

References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

  • Content available for subscribers only.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.