Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
water-soluble
Key Takeaways
- Pantothenic acid is required for synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA), central to energy metabolism
- FDA daily value is 5 mg for adults
- Deficiency is rare because pantothenic acid is found in virtually all foods
- Water-soluble vitamin with no established tolerable upper intake level
- Limited clinical trial data exists for isolated supplementation benefits
Evidence Spectrum
0 studies reviewed →Energy metabolism support
Pantothenic acid is biochemically required for energy metabolism via CoA, but no PubMed studies were available in the rawData to evaluate clinical supplementation benefits.
5 mg
RDA (Adults (FDA Daily Value))
water-soluble
Solubility
Role in the Body
Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is a water-soluble B vitamin that serves as a precursor to coenzyme A (CoA) and acyl carrier protein. CoA is essential for the synthesis and oxidation of fatty acids, the citric acid cycle, and the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It participates in over 100 metabolic reactions in the body. Beyond energy metabolism, pantothenic acid contributes to the synthesis of cholesterol, steroid hormones, melatonin, and the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. It is also required for the acyl carrier protein component of fatty acid synthase, making it indispensable for de novo fatty acid synthesis. Pantothenic acid is absorbed in the intestine and distributed to all tissues. Because it is water-soluble, the body does not store large amounts, and regular dietary intake is necessary to maintain adequate levels.
- Coenzyme A (CoA) synthesis for energy metabolism
- Fatty acid synthesis and oxidation
- Citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) function
- Synthesis of cholesterol and steroid hormones
- Acetylcholine neurotransmitter production
- Acyl carrier protein formation for fatty acid synthase
Supplement Forms
Calcium pantothenate
RecommendedBioavailability: 0%
Most common supplement form. Specific bioavailability data not available in rawData.
Dexpanthenol (panthenol)
Bioavailability: 0%
Alcohol form used primarily in topical applications and cosmetics. Bioavailability data not available in rawData.
Pantethine
Bioavailability: 0%
Dimeric form of pantetheine; studied for cholesterol-lowering effects. Bioavailability data not available in rawData.
Food Sources
Organ meats (liver, kidney)
Chicken and beef
Whole grains and fortified cereals
Mushrooms
Avocados
Eggs
Broccoli
Legumes
Sunflower seeds
Deficiency
Prevalence: Very rare in humans due to the widespread occurrence of pantothenic acid in foods
Symptoms:
- Fatigue and malaise
- Headache
- Numbness and tingling in hands and feet (paresthesia)
- Irritability and restlessness
- Sleep disturbances
- Gastrointestinal disturbances
Risk Factors:
- Severe malnutrition
- Chronic alcoholism
- Conditions impairing nutrient absorption
Safety & Interactions
Possible Side Effects:
- • No known toxicity from food or supplement sources; no tolerable upper intake level has been established
Drug Interactions:
- • No well-documented significant drug interactions in the available rawData
Contraindications:
- • None established
Frequently Asked Questions
What does vitamin B5 do in the body?
Vitamin B5 is essential for synthesizing coenzyme A, which is involved in over 100 metabolic reactions including energy production from fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.
How much vitamin B5 do I need daily?
The FDA daily value for pantothenic acid is 5 mg per day for adults. No tolerable upper intake level has been established.
Is vitamin B5 deficiency common?
Deficiency is very rare because pantothenic acid is found in virtually all plant and animal foods. It may occur only in cases of severe malnutrition.
What are the best food sources of vitamin B5?
Organ meats, chicken, beef, whole grains, mushrooms, avocados, eggs, and broccoli are all good dietary sources of pantothenic acid.