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Pantothenic Acid

Evidence Level
Strong
4 Clinical Trials
6 Documented Benefits
4/5 Evidence Score

Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is an essential water-soluble vitamin needed to make coenzyme A, which the body uses to produce energy from food and to synthesize fats, cholesterol, and certain hormones. Because it is found in a wide range of foods, deficiency is rare, so supplements are used mainly for general energy metabolism and, sometimes, for skin and oil control, where evidence is limited. A related form, pantethine, is specifically studied at higher doses for supporting healthy cholesterol. Pantothenic acid is considered very safe, since it is water-soluble and excess is excreted, with only occasional mild digestive upset at high doses.

Studied Dose AI (Adequate Intake): 5 mg/day adults (no RDA). PREGNANCY: 6 mg/day. LACTATION: 7 mg/day. ACNE: 2.2 g/day × 12 wk vs placebo. LIPID MANAGEMENT: 500-1,000 mg/day (pantethine more effective for this — see separate entry).
Active Compound Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Deficiency information View details

Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) deficiency is essentially unheard of in healthy people because B5 is found in virtually all foods (the name comes from the Greek 'pantos,' meaning 'everywhere'). Isolated deficiency has only been observed in experimental conditions or in severe malnutrition combined with other B-vitamin deficiencies.

Common symptoms

  • Fatigue, irritability, restlessness
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Headache
  • Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • Muscle cramps
  • Burning sensation in feet ('burning feet syndrome' described in WWII POWs)
  • GI symptoms — nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain
  • Most cases occur alongside multiple B-vitamin deficiencies, making isolated symptoms rare

At-risk groups

  • People with severe malnutrition (typically alongside other B-vitamin deficiencies)
  • People with rare genetic disorders affecting pantothenate metabolism (PKAN)
  • People on long-term parenteral nutrition without adequate supplementation
  • Note: Routine B5 supplementation is generally unnecessary for healthy people on a varied diet
When to see a doctor: Isolated B5 deficiency is so rare that suspected deficiency symptoms (numbness, burning feet, fatigue) almost always indicate a different cause — often deficiencies of other B vitamins, neuropathy from diabetes, or another underlying condition. A doctor can identify the actual cause.
Explore related deficiencies →
Sources: NIH ODS — Pantothenic Acid Health Professional Fact Sheet · Vitamin B (LiverTox) — NCBI Bookshelf NBK548710

Benefits

Supports Energy Metabolism

Pantothenic acid is a critical component of coenzyme A, which is vital for metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy, supporting cellular functions and ATP production.

Supported by Trial 4, Trial 1

Promotes Skin and Hair Health

RCT (n=51 mild-moderate facial acne, 12 weeks, double-blind, placebo-controlled, Dermatology and Therapy 4:93-101) found 2.2 g/day pantothenic acid significantly reduced total facial lesion count vs placebo. By supporting fatty acid synthesis and cellular repair, pantothenic acid contributes to healthy skin and may reduce mild-moderate acne lesions. Dexpanthenol (the alcohol form of B5) is widely used topically (Bepanthen® and others) for wound healing and skin barrier support. Note: standard acne therapies (topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, isotretinoin) have substantially stronger evidence; B5 may be an adjunct for mild cases.

Supported by Trial 1

Aids Hormone and Cholesterol Synthesis

Coenzyme A is required for producing steroid hormones (e.g., cortisol, testosterone) and cholesterol, supporting endocrine function and overall health.

Supported by Trial 2, Trial 3

Supports Nervous System Function

Pantothenic acid is involved in synthesizing acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for nerve signaling and cognitive function.

Supported by Trial 3, Trial 1

Enhances Stress Response

By aiding adrenal gland function through hormone production, pantothenic acid may help the body manage physical and metabolic stress.

Supported by Trial 3, Trial 1

Supports Red Blood Cell Production

Pantothenic acid contributes to heme synthesis, a component of hemoglobin, supporting oxygen transport in the blood.

Supported by Trial 1, Trial 3

Mechanism of action

1

Precursor to Coenzyme A (CoA)

Pantothenic acid is converted into coenzyme A, a critical molecule in energy metabolism. CoA acts as a carrier of acyl groups in enzymatic reactions, facilitating the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. In the citric acid cycle, CoA (as acetyl-CoA) delivers acetyl groups to produce ATP, the cell’s energy currency. CoA is also involved in fatty acid synthesis and oxidation, supporting lipid metabolism.

2

Role in Acyl Carrier Protein (ACP)

Pantothenic acid is a component of ACP, which is essential for fatty acid synthesis in mitochondria and cytosol, contributing to cell membrane formation and lipid storage.

3

Hormone and Cholesterol Synthesis

CoA is required for synthesizing steroid hormones (e.g., cortisol, testosterone) and cholesterol in the adrenal glands and other tissues, supporting endocrine function.

4

Neurotransmitter Production

Pantothenic acid, via CoA, supports the synthesis of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter crucial for nerve signaling, muscle function, and cognitive processes.

5

Cellular Repair and Skin Health

Through its role in lipid and protein metabolism, pantothenic acid supports cell membrane integrity and tissue repair. Its derivative, dexpanthenol, is used topically to promote skin healing by enhancing fibroblast proliferation and epithelialization.

Clinical trials

1
Pantothenic Acid for Mild-Moderate Acne (Pivotal Clinical Trial)

2014 clinical trial in adults with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris evaluating safety and efficacy of pantothenic acid-based dietary supplement vs placebo for 12 weeks.

Adults with mild-moderate acne.

Yang M, Moclair B, Hatcher V et al. 2014 (Dermatol Ther 4:93-101). Randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study, n=51 adults with mild-moderate facial acne (≥50 non-inflammatory + up to 50 inflammatory lesions), 12 weeks, 2.2 g/day pantothenic acid-based supplement. Result: significantly reduced total facial lesion count vs placebo. Well-tolerated. Caveat: standard acne management uses topical retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene), benzoyl peroxide, topical/oral antibiotics, and isotretinoin (Accutane) for severe acne — all with much stronger evidence. May be adjunctive for mild cases.

2
Coenzyme A vs Pantethine for Dyslipidemia — Clinical Trial

2015 double-blind clinical trial in 216 adults with moderate dyslipidemia comparing 400 mg/day coenzyme A (CoA) vs pantethine. Outcomes: lipid profile.

216 dyslipidemic adults.

Both CoA and pantethine reduced lipid parameters; effects modestly comparable. Note: small head-to-head trial; different populations may respond differently. Statin therapy remains first-line for high-risk dyslipidemia.

3
Dexpanthenol (Topical) for Atopic Dermatitis

Clinical study comparing dexpanthenol (an alcoholic analog of pantothenic acid) with hydrocortisone for treating atopic dermatitis.

Atopic dermatitis patients.

Dexpanthenol modestly improved skin barrier function and atopic dermatitis symptoms. Note: dexpanthenol is an established topical ingredient (Bepanthen®, others) for skin barrier support; less potent than topical corticosteroids for inflammation but useful for maintenance.

4
Cerebral Pantothenic Acid Deficiency in Alzheimer's — Mechanistic Study

2020 study exploring cerebral pantothenic acid deficiency in Alzheimer's disease patients, using biochemical analysis of post-mortem brain tissue.

Post-mortem AD vs control brains.

AD brain tissue showed reduced pantothenic acid levels in specific regions. Critical caveat: this is a mechanistic finding in post-mortem tissue — does not establish that pantothenic acid supplementation prevents or treats AD. Tempting hypothesis for future research but not clinical evidence.

Side effects and drug interactions

Common Potential side effects

Gastrointestinal Issues: High doses (>1,000 mg/day) may cause mild diarrhea, nausea, or stomach discomfort in some individuals.
Allergic Reactions: Very rare cases of hypersensitivity reactions, such as skin rashes or itching, have been reported with large doses.

Important Drug interactions

Cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine) — pantothenic acid is a precursor to acetylcholine; may have additive cholinergic effects
Oral contraceptives — may increase pantothenic acid requirements
No clinically significant interactions established at standard supplemental doses (up to 1,000 mg/day)

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Frequently asked questions about Pantothenic Acid

How much pantothenic acid (B5) should I take?

The adequate intake is about 5 mg per day, easily met by diet since B5 is in many foods. Supplements and B-complexes often contain more, and some skin-focused uses involve higher doses. It is water-soluble and very safe.

What is pantothenic acid good for?

Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is essential for making coenzyme A, which the body uses to produce energy from food and to synthesize fats and hormones. It is sometimes used in skin formulas and for general energy metabolism.

Is pantothenic acid used for acne?

Some people use high-dose pantothenic acid for skin and oil control, and a related form (panthenol) appears in skincare. Evidence for high-dose B5 and acne is limited, so view it as a minor, supportive option rather than a proven treatment.

Is pantothenic acid safe?

B5 is considered very safe because it is water-soluble and excess is excreted. Very high doses can occasionally cause mild digestive upset. Deficiency is rare since the vitamin is so widespread in foods.

What is Pantothenic Acid?

Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is an essential water-soluble vitamin needed to make coenzyme A, which the body uses to produce energy from food and to synthesize fats, cholesterol, and certain hormones.

What is Pantothenic Acid used for?

Pantothenic Acid is researched primarily for Energy, Hair, Skin & Nails, and Metabolic Health. Pantothenic acid is a critical component of coenzyme A, which is vital for metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy, supporting cellular functions and ATP production.

What are the signs of Pantothenic Acid deficiency?

Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) deficiency is essentially unheard of in healthy people because B5 is found in virtually all foods (the name comes from the Greek 'pantos,' meaning 'everywhere').

What is the recommended dosage of Pantothenic Acid?

The clinically studied dose is AI (Adequate Intake): 5 mg/day adults (no RDA). Pregnancy: 6 mg/day. Lactation: 7 mg/day. ACNE: 2.2 g/day × 12 wk vs placebo. Lipid management: 500-1,000 mg/day (pantethine more effective for this — see separate entry). Always follow the product label and check with a healthcare provider for personal advice.

Is Pantothenic Acid safe, and does it have side effects?

For most healthy adults, Pantothenic Acid is well tolerated at studied doses. Reported effects can include: Gastrointestinal Issues: High doses (>1,000 mg/day) may cause mild diarrhea, nausea, or stomach discomfort in some individuals. Allergic Reactions: Very rare cases of hypersensitivity reactions, such as skin rashes or itching, have been reported with large doses. It may also interact with some medications. Pantothenic Acid is not right for everyone, so check with a healthcare provider first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a medical condition, or take prescription medication.

Does Pantothenic Acid interact with any medications?

Possible interactions include: Cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine) — pantothenic acid is a precursor to acetylcholine; may have additive cholinergic effects Oral contraceptives — may increase pantothenic acid requirements If you take prescription medication, check with a pharmacist or doctor before using it.

How strong is the scientific evidence for Pantothenic Acid?

NutraSmarts rates the evidence for Pantothenic Acid as Strong (4 out of 5). It is backed by 4 clinical trials and 4 cited references summarized on this page. A higher rating reflects more, larger, and better-designed human studies.

References(4 citations)

Evidence ratings on NutraSmarts are based on the totality of human clinical research, with emphasis on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews. The references below directly support claims made throughout this page.

  1. Rumberger JA, Napolitano J, Azumano I, Kamiya T, Evans M Pantethine, a derivative of vitamin B(5) used as a nutritional supplement, favorably alters low-density lipoprotein cholesterol metabolism in low- to moderate-cardiovascular risk North American subjects: a triple-blinded placebo and diet-controlled investigation Nutr Res. 2011;31(8):608-15. doi: 10.1016/j.nutres.2011.08.001.PubMedUsed to support: Backs the strongest real finding for this ingredient class: the B5 derivative pantethine (not plain pantothenic acid) modestly lowers LDL cholesterol in a placebo-controlled RCT. Does not support routine B5 supplementation for general health.
  2. Gaddi A, Descovich GC, Noseda G, Fragiacomo C, Colombo L, Craveri A, Montanari G, Sirtori CR Controlled evaluation of pantethine, a natural hypolipidemic compound, in patients with different forms of hyperlipoproteinemia Atherosclerosis. 1984;50(1):73-83. doi: 10.1016/0021-9150(84)90009-1.PubMedUsed to support: A second, older controlled trial supporting the pantethine-lipid signal (reductions in total cholesterol and triglycerides in hyperlipidemic patients). Reinforces that the lipid effect belongs to pantethine specifically, not to correcting a B5 deficiency.
  3. Kennedy DO B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy--A Review Nutrients. 2016;8(2):68. doi: 10.3390/nu8020068.PubMedUsed to support: Provides the biochemical rationale (B5 is the precursor of coenzyme A, central to energy metabolism) while making clear that supplementing individual B vitamins in well-nourished people yields little measurable benefit. Used to honestly frame energy/cognition claims as unproven.
  4. Freese R, Aarsland TE, Bjorkevoll M Pantothenic acid - a scoping review for Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023 Food Nutr Res. 2023;67:10255. doi: 10.29219/fnr.v67.10255.PubMedUsed to support: Authoritative requirement/status review documenting that B5 is ubiquitous in food and isolated dietary deficiency is essentially never seen, so a deficiency-correction rationale for supplementation is weak in practice. Anchors the honest 'no proven benefit in well-nourished people' framing.