Pantothenic Acid

Common Name(s)

Pantothenic acid, vitamin B5

Scientific Name(s)

D-pantothenic acid

General Information

Pantothenic acid, also known as vitamin B5, is an essential nutrient, which means that the body needs to get it from food sources. Its name comes from the Greek word pantothen, meaning "from all sides," because it is found in most foods in small amounts (e.g., meats, legumes, milk, whole grains).

How is this product usually used?

Pantothenic acid is usually taken by mouth. It is available as tablets, capsules, liquids, gummies, lozenges, powders, or strips. It is often used in combination with other B vitamins in vitamin B complex formulations. It may be combined with other ingredients or taken alone.

The daily recommended amount of pantothenic acid for adults 19 years and older is 5 mg to 7 mg.

Usually, 5 mg to 10 mg is taken as a dietary supplement. Higher doses may be needed for specific circumstances such as to treat pantothenic acid deficiency.

Your health care provider may have recommended using this product in other ways. Contact a health care provider if you have questions.

What is this product used for?

Pantothenic acid is used to:

• prevent or treat pantothenic acid deficiency
• help the body break down fat, protein, and carbohydrates for energy
• maintain overall good health
• help in the formation of tissue

People have also used pantothenic acid for other conditions like acne and long-term pain.

Your health care provider may have recommended this product for other conditions. Contact a health care provider if you have questions.

What else should I be aware of?

Pantothenic acid supplements are effective in treating or preventing pantothenic acid deficiency.

Pantothenic acid has not been shown to be effective in treating any other condition.

Large doses of pantothenic acid taken orally may cause diarrhea.

Pantothenic acid has been shown to be safe for children when taken at the recommended daily dose. Ask your doctor what the right dose is for your child.

Pantothenic acid is likely safe during pregnancy at the daily recommended dose of 6 mg. It is likely safe during breast-feeding at the daily recommended dose of 7 mg.

Before taking any new medications, including natural health products, speak to your physician, pharmacist, or other health care provider. Tell your health care provider about any natural health products you may be taking.

Source(s)

1. Health Canada. Natural Health Products Ingredients Database. Multi-Vitamin / Mineral Supplements Monograph. Available from: https://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/atReq.do?atid=multi_vitmin_suppl&lang=eng.
2. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5).