Overview
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) is a water-soluble vitamin essential for the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA), a critical molecule in energy metabolism, fatty acid synthesis, and the production of neurotransmitters and steroid hormones. It plays a vital role in maintaining cellular function and integrity, particularly in tissues with high metabolic activity. Research indicates that adequate pantothenic acid status supports antioxidant defenses by enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes, as demonstrated in animal models where dietary supplementation improved antioxidant status [1]. Pantothenic acid is also involved in maintaining neurological function, with implications for nerve health and potential neuroprotective effects, possibly through its role in myelin synthesis and mitochondrial function [2][4]. Additionally, it is transported into the brain via the sodium-dependent multivitamin transporter, which also carries biotin and lipoic acid, highlighting its importance in central nervous system homeostasis [3].
Dosage Guide
Recommended Daily Allowance
For generally healthy individuals
Therapeutic Doses
For treatment of specific conditions
Upper Intake Limit
Maximum safe daily intake
Not established mg— No tolerable upper intake level set due to low toxicity; high doses may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Special Forms
Alternative forms for specific needs
Used therapeutically for lipid-lowering effects and improved neurological outcomes; more metabolically active than pantothenic acid
Common supplemental form, stable and well-absorbed
Clinical Notes
- Pantothenic acid deficiency is rare but can occur in severe malnutrition and is associated with fatigue, numbness, and neurological symptoms.
- Pantethine, a dimeric form of B5, has greater therapeutic potential in metabolic and neurological conditions compared to standard pantothenic acid.
- High-dose supplementation may cause mild gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea.
- No significant toxicity reported; excess intake is excreted in urine due to water solubility.
Research
Dietary pantothenic acid supplementation improved growth performance and antioxidant status in ducks, suggesting a role in redox balance.
Pantethine, a derivative of pantothenic acid, exhibits neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Pantothenic acid is transported into the brain via the sodium-dependent multivitamin transporter, indicating a critical role in CNS vitamin homeostasis.
Vitamin B5 contributes to nerve recovery and tissue regeneration in surgical contexts, supporting its role in cellular repair and mitochondrial function.
Elderly individuals are at increased risk of hypovitaminosis, including B5 deficiency, due to dietary and physiological factors.
Vitamin B5 is included in micronutrient regimens aimed at reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in viral infections like COVID-19.
Vitamin-related neuropathies, including those linked to B5 imbalance, are rare but treatable with proper nutritional repletion.
While focused on NAD+ precursors, this review underscores the broader importance of B vitamins in aging and metabolic health, indirectly supporting B5's role in energy metabolism.
Products Containing Vitamin B5(6 reports)
This Nutricost supplement provides 500mg of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and 40mg of calcium per serving. Vitamin B5 plays a key role in energy metabolism and coenzyme A synthesis, while the added calcium supports bone health. The B5 dose exceeds typical dietary intake and aligns with higher-end clinical usage, though evidence for specific health outcomes remains limited.
This supplement delivers a high-dose 500 mg of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), a water-soluble vitamin essential for energy metabolism and coenzyme A synthesis. The dose far exceeds the RDA but aligns with therapeutic explorations for skin health, particularly acne management, though clinical evidence remains limited. Calcium (45 mg) is included in a supporting role, contributing minimally to daily needs.
Ortho B Complex is a high-potency B-complex supplement delivering 50 mg each of vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, and B6, along with 200 mcg B12, 1,360 mcg folic acid (B9), 75 mcg biotin, 19 mg choline, and 50 mg inositol. The formulation emphasizes pharmacological doses of B vitamins, particularly those involved in energy metabolism, homocysteine regulation, and neurological function.
BioActive Complete B-Complex is a high-potency B-vitamin supplement designed to support energy metabolism, neurological function, and homocysteine regulation. The formulation features all eight B vitamins at doses that meet or exceed clinically studied levels for key indications, with particular emphasis on B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, and B12 for metabolic and neurological support.
This supplement provides 500 mg of vitamin B5 (calcium pantothenate) per serving, a dose significantly higher than the RDA, aimed at supporting energy metabolism, neurological function, and antioxidant defenses. Calcium is included in a minor supporting role. The formulation aligns with evidence for high-dose B5 in metabolic and nerve health, though pantethine may offer superior therapeutic activity.
This supplement delivers high-dose vitamin D (25µg/1000 IU) as a primary ingredient, supported by a full B-complex, vitamins C and E. The formulation is designed to support immune function, metabolic health, and antioxidant defense, with clinically relevant dosing of key micronutrients.