Image for Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), dexpanthenol
Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), dexpanthenol
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

  • (+)-2,4-Dihydroxy-N-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,3-dimethylbutyramide, ácido pantoténico (Spanish), B5, Bepanthen®, Bepanthene®, Bepanthol® Handbalsam, C9H17NO5, calcii pantothenas, calcium pantetheine-S-sulfonate (PaSSO3Ca), calcium pantothenate, coenzyme A, D-calcium pantothenate, D(+)-N-(2,4-dihydroxy-3,3-dimethylbutyryl)-beta-alanine, D-panthenol, D-pantothenic acid, D(+)-pantothenic acid, D-pantothenyl alcohol, dexpan, dexpanthenol, dexpanthenolum, dexpanthenon, homopantothenic acid, hopantenic acid, Lemuval®, Nasicur®, NoAll Bimbi Pasta Trattante®, Ophtovitol®, pantethine, pantetheine, panthenol, pantogam, pantoham, pantoic acid, pantothenic, pantothenol, pantothenylol, provitamin B5, sodium pantothenate, Thiopheol®, Tonimer® nasal gel spray, vitamin B5.
  • Select combination products: Bepanthen®, Bepanthene®, Bepanthol® Handbalsam, Lemuval® (heparinoid, hyaluronidase, vitamin B5, vitamin A, menthol), Mar® plus (sea water and dexpanthenol), Nasic® (xylometazoline and dexpanthenol), NoAll Bimbi Pasta Trattante®, Oleovit® (dexpanthenol and vitamin A), Ophtovitol® (multivitamins, adenosine, androstanolone), Pantogar® (vitamin B1, calcium pantothenate, yeast, L-cystine, keratin, para-aminobenzoic acid), Siccaprotect®, Slim339® (Garcinia cambogia extract with calcium pantothenate, standardized for the content of hydroxycitric acid and pantothenic acid, and extracts of Matricaria chamomilla, Rosa damascena, Lavandula officinalis, and Cananga odorata), Thiopheol®, Tonimer® nasal gel spray.

Background

  • Pantothenic acid, or vitamin B5, is important to all forms of life. It is part of a molecule called coenzyme A, which is needed for many chemical reactions in cells. Vitamin B5 is needed for the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also involved in the creation of hormones and cholesterol.
  • Vitamin B5 can be found in meats, liver, kidney, fish, shellfish, chicken, vegetables, legumes, yeast, eggs, milk, and whole grains. However, freezing, canning, refining, cooking, and processing may reduce the vitamin B5 content of food.
  • In commercial supplements, vitamin B5 is available as D-pantothenic acid, dexpanthenol, or calcium pantothenate. Vitamin B5 is often used together with other B vitamins.
  • Vitamin B5 deficiency is very rare and likely occurs in cases of severe, life-threatening malnutrition. Most people get enough vitamin B5 from food.
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Evidence

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Author Information

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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.

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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.