Pantothenic acid is used as a dietary supplement in patients who experience fatigue, lethargy, insomnia, depression, irritability, vomiting, dyspepsia, and burning feet. Its deficiency has been associated with hypoglycemia.

Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) Dose in Adults

OTC labeling for use as a dietary supplement:

• One tablet once a day.

Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) Dose in Childrens

Dose in chidren has not been defined but the usual dose is 5 mg once  a day.

Pregnancy Risk factor: Unspecified

• It is a water-soluble vitamin that crosses the placental boundary.

Vitamin B5 use during breastfeeding:

• It is excreted from breast milk.
• Breastmilk concentrations may be increased by maternal supplementation.

Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) Dose in Renal Disease:

The manufacturer has not recommended any dose adjustment iin patients with renal disease.

Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) Dose in Liver Disease:

The manufacturer has not recommended any dose adjustment iin patients with liver disease.

Side effects of pantothenic acid:

• Myalgias and arthralgias
• New onset Diabetes mellitus.
• Pharyngitis and Sore throat
• Headache
• Weakness
• Lethargy and lack of energy.
• Dizziness and vertigo
• Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) increased.

Contraindication to Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5):

• Since it is a water soluble vitamin and is not stored, excess of it is excreted in the urine.
• Toxicity has not been reported and no contraindications have been listed to its use.

Monitor:

None required.

How to take pantothenic acid?

• It is administered orally without regard to meals.
• It is usually available as an oral supplement in combination with other vitamins and supplements.

Mechanism of action of Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5):

• It is necessary for the synthesis of and maintenance coenzyme A, which is a cofactor in metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.It is absorbed into the intestine, where it is converted to coenzyme B. 
• It is excreted from the urine.

International Brands of Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5):

• Calcium Pantothenicum
• Kerato Biciron
• Pantothen Streuli
• Panto-250

Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) Brands in Pakistan: