Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)

Also known as: vitamin b5, pantothenate, calcium pantothenate, dexpanthenol

Grade B — Moderate Evidencevitaminfoundationalskin-hair
500–1500 mgMorning with food

Essential for CoA synthesis (energy metabolism, fat breakdown, hormone production). Deficiency rare but supplement shows promise for acne and stress-related fatigue.

⚡Energy🧘Stress & Anxiety✨Skin & Hair
Last reviewed: 2026-03-11

Evidence

Grade B

Studies

2

Interactions

1

Forms

1

Evidence Rating: Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Some RCTs with positive results, or strong observational evidence. More research may refine our understanding.

Interaction Warnings

Tetracycline antibioticsLow

May reduce antibiotic absorption — take 2 hours apart.

⚠️ Important Notes

  • Deficiency is very rare on any varied diet
  • Very large doses (>10g) may cause GI upset and diarrhea
  • Most useful for those with high stress, acne, or poor diet quality

Clinical Evidence (2 studies)

Pantothenic acid for acne vulgaris: RCT

Yang M et al. (2014) — Dermatol Ther (Heidelb)

Pantothenic acid 2.2g/day significantly reduced total lesion count vs placebo at 12 weeks

View on PubMed

CoA synthesis and B5 role in metabolism

Begley TP et al. (2001) — Nat Prod Rep

Pantothenic acid is the sole dietary precursor to coenzyme A, essential for fatty acid synthesis, TCA cycle, and hormone production

View on PubMed

Alternatives to Consider

These supplements target similar goals and may be worth considering alongside or instead of Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5).

Biotin

Grade B

Water-soluble B vitamin important for fat and carbohydrate metabolism. Commonly used for hair/nail support — evidence is stronger in true deficiency. Important: stop before lab tests.

✨ Skin & Hair⚡ Energy

Zinc

Grade A

Essential mineral for immune function, wound healing, and testosterone production. Lozenges reduce cold duration by ~33%.

✨ Skin & Hair

Vitamin C

Grade A

Essential antioxidant vitamin. Supports immune function, collagen synthesis, and antioxidant defense. 50% infection reduction in athletes.

✨ Skin & Hair

Related Supplements

Biotin

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Water-soluble B vitamin important for fat and carbohydrate metabolism. Commonly used for hair/nail support — evidence is stronger in true deficiency. Important: stop before lab tests.

Ashwagandha

Grade A — Strong Evidence

Ayurvedic adaptogen with strong clinical evidence for cortisol reduction (15-30%), stress relief, and exercise performance.

Rhodiola Rosea

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Adaptogenic herb with strong evidence for reducing stress-related fatigue. Comparable to low-dose antidepressants for mild depression.

B-Complex

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Group of essential vitamins for energy metabolism, nervous system function, and mood. Methylated forms preferred for MTHFR variants.

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⚕️ Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.

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