Overview

Vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid, is a precursor of coenzyme A and 4-prime-phosphopantetheine. It is widely distributed in foods. See Vitamin B5 and B-complex vitamins.

Mechanism

Coenzyme A carries acyl groups in fatty-acid synthesis and oxidation, acetyl-CoA production, the citric-acid cycle, and steroid and neurotransmitter biosynthesis.

Uses

Supplementation is used to prevent or correct deficiency, although clinically significant deficiency is uncommon. Pantothenol and calcium pantothenate are common supplement forms.

Dosage

Adequate intake for adults is about 5 mg/day; pregnancy and lactation have higher reference values. No established tolerable upper intake level exists, but very high doses can cause gastrointestinal symptoms.

Adverse effects

High supplemental doses may cause diarrhea, nausea, or abdominal discomfort. Allergic reactions are uncommon. Seek medical advice for persistent symptoms.

Claims and evidence

Vitamin B5 is essential for coenzyme A biology, but claims that high-dose products reliably improve hair, skin, energy, or cholesterol are not established.

Research

Research examines coenzyme A homeostasis, skin-barrier biology, metabolic disease, and rare disorders affecting CoA synthesis. Human clinical evidence for high-dose supplementation remains limited.