An essential water-soluble vitamin required for Coenzyme A synthesis, fatty acid metabolism, and steroid hormone production.
What it is
Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is a water-soluble B vitamin formed by the condensation of pantoic acid with beta-alanine. In dietary supplements, it is predominantly supplied as calcium pantothenate, a stable, highly bioavailable salt. Pantothenic acid is the essential obligate precursor for Coenzyme A (CoA) and Acyl Carrier Protein (ACP), central molecules in acetyl group transfer, Krebs cycle energy production, and lipid biosynthesis.
Also known as: Calcium Pantothenate, Pantothenate, Vitamin B5
What it does
- Functions as the essential backbone of Coenzyme A, driving fatty acid oxidation and ATP synthesis.
- Supports adrenal steroid hormone, neurotransmitter, and hemoglobin biosynthesis.
- Promotes cellular skin repair, epithelial wound healing, and barrier function.
Amplified by probiotics
Dietary pantothenic acid is absorbed in the upper small intestine through the sodium-dependent multivitamin transporter (SMVT). Furthermore, commensal gut bacteria—specifically Escherichia coli, Bacteroides fragilis, and select probiotic Lactobacillus strains—synthesize pantothenic acid de novo in the large intestine. Microencapsulated probiotic administration enriches the colonic microbiota, expanding luminal pantothenic acid pools. Bacterial pantothenate is absorbed locally by colonic enterocytes to generate mucosal CoA, which fuels fatty acid beta-oxidation and epithelial turnover. Additionally, probiotic short-chain fatty acids upregulate SMVT transporter expression, enhancing host vitamin B5 uptake efficiency and enterocyte energy production.
Typical dose
5–50 mg/day
The evidence
Evidence: strongHuman nutritional trials demonstrate that pantothenic acid is essential for CoA synthesis, adrenal corticosteroid production, and lipid metabolism. Clinical research highlights its role in speeding wound healing and supporting dermatological health (Kelly 2011, Altern Med Rev; Rucker et al. 2007, Handbook of Vitamins).
Safety & who should check first
Exceedingly low toxicity with no established upper intake limit (UL); well-tolerated even at megadoses (>1,000 mg/day), though mild diarrhea or GI distress may occur at excessive intakes.