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topic: pantothenic acid
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Pantothenic Acid
(Vitamin B5, Dexpanthenol)

Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is essential to all life and is a component of coenzyme A (CoA), a molecule that is necessary for numerous vital chemical reactions to occur in cells. Pantothenic acid is essential to the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as well as for the synthesis of hormones and cholesterol.
It is water-soluble, which means that the body can´t store them. If the body can´t use all of the vitamin, the extra leaves the body through the urine. Therefore, this vitamin must be replaced every day.

Function of Vitamin B5

This vitamin is essential to growth. It helps the body break down and use food. This is called metabolism.

Pantothenic acid deficiency has been very rarely observed in humans. In cases of true deficiency, oral therapy of this vitamin is accepted as a treatment. It may also be merited as prevention in select patients at high risk for malnutrition. It should be included in tube feeds or parenteral (intravenous) nutrition formulas for patients unable to eat on their own.

Food Sources of Vitamin B5

This vitamin is found in foods that are good sources of B vitamins, including the following:

  • Eggs
  • Fish
  • Milk and milk products
  • Whole-grain cereals
  • Legumes
  • Yeast
  • Broccoli and other vegetables in the cabbage family
  • White and sweet potatoes
  • Lean beef

Deficiency Side Effects

There are no known deficiencies. Pantothenic acid is likely safe when used orally in doses equivalent to the daily adequate intake (AI). Moderate doses have been ingested without significant reported adverse effects. Large amounts of this vitamin taken by mouth may cause diarrhea.
In theory, nausea and heartburn may occur. It has been noted anecdotally that dexpanthenol may increase bleeding time and therefore potentially increase the risk of bleeding when combined with other agents with similar properties, but there is limited evidence in this area and this is generally not regarded as a serious potential risk.

Pregnant women may need slightly more of this vitamin. Breastfeeding women may need higher levels of pantothenic acid. Ask your health care provider which amount is best for you.

Eating a balanced diet with selections from the food guide pyramid will provide adequate amounts of these vitamins.