VITAMIN B5 (PANTOTHENIC ACID)
What Is VITAMIN B5 (PANTOTHENIC ACID)?
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) is a water-soluble B vitamin essential for synthesizing coenzyme A (CoA), which plays a critical role in fatty acid metabolism, energy production, and neurotransmitter synthesis. It is found naturally in many foods and is widely used in dietary supplements, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals for supporting metabolic function, skin health, hair growth, and stress management.
VITAMIN B5 (PANTOTHENIC ACID) Research & Studies
01 Dexpanthenol Promotes Cell Growth by Preventing Cell Senescence and Apoptosis in Cultured Human Hair Follicle Cells ▸
Dexpanthenol (D-panthenol), a precursor to vitamin B5, enhanced cell viability and proliferation in human hair follicle cells while reducing markers of apoptosis and senescence, suggesting potential benefits for hair loss prevention.
View Study (PubMed)02 Vitamin B5, a coenzyme A precursor, rescues TANGO2 deficiency disease-associated defects in Drosophila and human cells ▸
Vitamin B5 supplementation improved cellular defects in TANGO2 deficiency disease models, demonstrating its potential therapeutic role in metabolic crisis prevention by supporting CoA biosynthesis.
View Study (PubMed)03 Vitamin B5 supplementation enhances intestinal development and alters microbes in weaned piglets ▸
Supplementation with 50mg/kg vitamin B5 improved intestinal structure, increased villus height, and beneficially altered gut microbiota composition in weaned piglets, supporting digestive health.
View Study (PubMed)04 A therapeutic approach to pantothenate kinase associated neurodegeneration: a pilot study ▸
This study explored therapeutic interventions for PKAN, a neurological disorder caused by mutations in the PANK2 gene that catalyzes the first reaction in CoA biosynthesis, highlighting the critical role of pantothenic acid in neurological health.
View Study (PubMed)05 Metabolic Engineering of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for Vitamin B5 Production ▸
Researchers successfully engineered yeast to produce d-pantothenic acid through optimized biosynthetic pathways, demonstrating potential for large-scale microbial vitamin B5 production for pharmaceuticals and supplements.
View Study (PubMed)06 Pantothenic acid in ruminant nutrition: a review ▸
This review discusses pantothenic acid's essential role in ruminant metabolism through CoA and acyl-carrier-protein incorporation, noting that while rumen microorganisms synthesize PA, supplementation may still increase blood PA levels.
View Study (PubMed)07 Advanced Applications of Vitamin B Complex in Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Benefits ▸
Pantothenic acid contributes to tissue regeneration and cellular repair in surgical contexts through its role in mitochondrial bioenergetics and energy production, supporting optimal surgical outcomes.
View Study (PubMed)VITAMIN B5 (PANTOTHENIC ACID) User Reviews & Experiences
*Based on large scale analysis of publicly available user experiences
User sentiment is genuinely mixed, with some reporting positive effects for acne and mood when taken appropriately, while others express concerns about high-dose formulations and limited noticeable benefits. Many users are cautious about dosing and uncertain about effectiveness.
VITAMIN B5 (PANTOTHENIC ACID) Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects
- Acne Improvement: Multiple users report taking pantothenic acid specifically for acne control, with some noting positive effects on skin health when combined with other supplements
- Mood and Stress Support: Users mention taking B5 as part of B-complex formulations for mood regulation, anxiety reduction, and stress management, though effects are often subtle
- Hair Health: Research supports and some users acknowledge its use in hair care products for anti-hair loss purposes and promoting hair follicle cell growth
- Energy and Metabolism: Users report taking B5 for general metabolic support and energy production, though individual effects vary considerably
- Variable Individual Response: Users report highly variable experiences, with some noticing subtle improvements in energy or skin while others report no perceptible effects, suggesting individual biochemistry plays a significant role
- Better as Part of Complex: Most effective when taken as part of a complete B-complex rather than in isolation, as B vitamins work synergistically in metabolic pathways
- Topical vs Oral: Some users note that topical applications in serums may be more effective for skin concerns than oral supplementation
- Long-Term Uncertainty: Many users express uncertainty about long-term benefits and whether effects are placebo, with limited subjective feedback on sustained improvements
- Standard Supplementation: Most B-complex formulations contain 5-75mg of pantothenic acid, with daily values often showing 500-5000% of RDA, though this is generally considered safe as it's water-soluble
- High-Dose for Acne: Some users report taking 500mg capsules specifically for acne treatment, with some splitting pills to lower doses around 50-70mg daily
- Conservative Approach: Several informed users recommend taking B vitamins slightly above RDI rather than megadoses to avoid potential imbalances
- Individual Adjustment: Users frequently mention starting with lower doses and adjusting based on tolerance and response, with some finding less is more effective
- Generally Well-Tolerated: Most users report no significant side effects from pantothenic acid specifically, as excess is excreted in urine due to water-solubility
- B-Complex Related Issues: When taken as part of high-dose B-complex formulations, some users report feeling drowsy, lightheaded, or experiencing digestive upset, though this is typically attributed to other B vitamins
- Bright Yellow Urine: Common harmless side effect mentioned when taking B-complex supplements containing riboflavin and B5
- Rare Gastrointestinal Effects: One user mentioned digestive issues when starting high-dose B5 (500mg), requiring dose reduction to 250mg
- Widely Available: Pantothenic acid is readily available in most B-complex supplements, multivitamins, and as standalone supplements from major brands like Jarrow Formulas, Thorne, and various retailers
- Dosage Forms: Available in capsules, tablets, and topical formulations (serums), with standalone B5 supplements typically ranging from 250-500mg per dose
- Quality Considerations: Users recommend avoiding low-quality brands like Spring Valley (only 4% product accuracy in testing) and suggest reputable brands like Thorne, Life Extension, and Nootropics Depot for methylated B-complex formulations
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