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pantothenic acid

  (păn'tə-thĕn'ĭk) pronunciation
n.

A yellow oily acid, C9H17NO5, belonging to and found widely in plant and animal tissues.

[From Greek pantothen, from all sides : panto-, all (from pās, pant-; see pan–) + -then, adv. suff.]


 
 
Sci-Tech Encyclopedia: Pantothenic acid

A member of the B vitamin group with the structural formula

It is a light-yellow, viscous oil which is readily soluble in H2O. Pantothenic acid is widely distributed, and liver, kidneys, fresh green vegetables, and egg yolks are among its best sources. Losses of the vitamin during cooking are minimal, as it is present in stable conjugated form in food.

No definite pathologic lesions due to a specific pantothenic acid deficiency have been reported in humans. The factors affecting the requirement for pantothenic acid are probably similar to those altering the needs for the other B vitamins. Pantothenic acid has been reported to improve the reactions of young men to stress. The widespread occurrence of pantothenic acid assures protection against the deficiency state under most conditions. Most Americans eat 10 mg of pantothenic acid per 2500 cal of good diet. The daily requirement is probably about 3–5 mg. See also Vitamin.


 
Food and Nutrition: pantothenic acid

A vitamin of the B complex with no numerical designation. Chemically, the β-alanine derivative of pantoic acid. Required for the synthesis of coenzyme A (and hence essential for the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and amino acids) and of acyl carrier protein (and hence essential for the synthesis of fatty acids).

Dietary deficiency is unknown; it is widely distributed in all living cells, the best sources being liver, kidney, yeast, and fresh vegetables. Human requirements are not known with any certainty; the US/Canadian adequate intake is 5 mg/day.

Experimental deficiency signs in rats include greying of the hair (hence at one time known as the anti-grey-hair factor; there is no evidence that it affects greying of human hair with age). Experimental deficiency in human beings leads to fatigue, headache, muscle weakness, and gastro-intestinal disturbances. See also burning foot syndrome.

 
Food and Fitness: pantothenic acid

vitamin B5

A water-soluble vitamin, and a member of the B complex. Pantothenic acid is a constituent of coenzyme A which plays an essential part in the intermediate stages of carbohydrate and fat metabolism. Pantothenic acid also plays a role in antibody formation, detoxification of drugs, and the conversion of cholesterol to anti-stress hormones. Some studies indicate that pantothenic acid supplements improve physical fitness, but it is generally agreed that more detailed experimentation is needed to confirm these effects.

Pantothenic acid was discovered because deficiency caused the hair of black rats to turn grey. It was called ‘anti-grey hair factor’ at one time, but there is no evidence that it affects hair colour in humans. Nevertheless, it is used in some hair care preparations as ‘pro vitamin B5’.

Deficiencies do not cause any specific disease in humans but can lead to a condition known as ‘burning feet syndrome’ when the feet ache, burn, and throb. Other deficiency symptoms include a wide range of mental and physiological disorders, among them headaches, depression, arm and leg cramps, respiratory infections, digestive disorders, and irregularities of heartbeat.

Good sources of pantothenic acid include dried brewer's yeast, pig liver, peas, and other legumes. Pantothenic acid is widespread in foods except fats, oils, and sugar. Healthy people are rarely at risk from deficiencies. The US RDA is 10 mg. There is no RNI in the UK.

 
Dental Dictionary: pantothenic acid

n

1. one of the B complex vitamins, the importance of which has not been established in human nutrition. Pantothenic acid is a constituent of coenzyme A and as such is presumed to be involved in adrenocortical function. n 2. a vitamin of the B complex that is widely distributed in food and tissues and important for normal development in certain animals such as chickens and rats. Pantothenic acid deficiency in rats produces retrograde changes in alveolar and supporting bone.

 
Drug Info: Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin B5



Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin B5 tablets

What are pantothenic acid, vitamin B5 tablets?

PANTOTHENIC ACID (Vitamin B5) is a naturally occurring vitamin found in beans, peas, meat, poultry, fish, and whole-grain cereal. Although pantothenic acid is necessary for normal metabolism, it has no Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA), and no problems have been found that are caused by pantothenic acid deficiency. However, a lack of pantothenic acid is often associated with a lack of other B vitamins. Generic pantothenic tablets are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:
• an unusual or allergic reaction to B vitamins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take pantothenic tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a glass of water.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, skip that dose. Continue with your next scheduled dose.

What drug(s) may interact with pantothenic acid?

There are no known interactions with other medicines.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking pantothenic acid?

Make sure you have a proper diet. Taking pantothenic acid tablets does not replace the need for a balanced diet. Some foods that contain pantothenic acid include: peas, beans, meat, fish, poultry, and whole-grain cereals.

What side effects may I notice from taking pantothenic acid?

There are no known side effects with pantothenic acid.

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.


Last updated: 7/1/2002

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

 

Description

Pantothenic acid, also known as vitamin B5, is a member of the water-soluble B vitamin family. It is an essential ingredient of two substances, coenzyme A and acyl carrier protein, which are needed to metabolize carbohydrates and fats. The same coenzymes play a part in production of certain hormones, vitamin D, red blood cells, and the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Pantothenic acid is necessary for proper growth and development. Studies of Mexican infants whose diets are deficient in micronutrients have shown that those who receive dietary supplements containing pantothenic acid do not show the growth retardation that appears in control groups.

General Use

There is not an RDA for pantothenic acid, since deficiency is not known to occur in normal circumstances. Although a daily intake is required for good health, some of this vitamin is found in nearly every food. The standard for the minimum amount of pantothenic acid is the Estimated Safe and Adequate Daily Dietary Intake. That value is 2 mg for infants less than six months old, 3 mg for infants six to 12 months old and children one to three years old, 3–4 mg for children four to six years old, 4–5 mg for children seven to 10 years old, and 4–7 mg for everyone over 11 years of age. This recommended intake is a minimal amount necessary to prevent deficiency, and may not be the optimal amount needed for good health.

Pantothenic acid and pantethine are both available as supplements, and do appear to function somewhat differently. Pantethine can be used to lower serum cholesterol and triglycerides. It is more expensive and less effective than using niacin (vitamin B3) for the same purpose, but does not have the potential side effects that niacin does. Generally a dose of 300 mg taken three times a day is recommended for this purpose. Pantethine may be a good cholesterol-lowering alternative for people with diabetes, who cannot take niacin due to the potential side effects on blood sugar regulation. Taking supplements of pantothenic acid does not affect cholesterol, as in this form it is immediately converted into coenzymes.

One very small study indicated that large daily doses of pantothenic acid (2 g of calcium pantothenate) were helpful to relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Consult a healthcare provider regarding use of supplements for this purpose.

Panthenol is a derivative of pantothenic acid and is frequently an ingredient of shampoos and other hair care products. Experiments with rats have shown that a deficiency of pantothenic acid can cause hair to turn gray and fall out. Neither oral nor topical use of any form of pantothenic acid has been shown to prevent or treat gray hair or balding in humans. Some skin care products contain another form of pantothenic acid, called panthoderm, which may be helpful in treatment of minor skin injuries.

Other claims for pantothenic acid that remain unproven are that it improves immune function, decreases allergies, and acts as an anti-aging substance.

Preparations

Natural Sources

Almost every food contains some pantothenic acid. Meats, dairy, whole grains, eggs, and legumes are among the richest sources. Products made from grains that have been processed are among the few foods that are lacking in B5; it is not added back after processing since there are so many other sources of it.

In order to get the most value out of the pantothenic acid contained in natural sources, use fresh foods whenever possible. Cook with minimal amounts of water since the water-soluble vitamin content may be leached out. Frozen foods lose some of their water-soluble vitamin content as they thaw. Processing can also destroy a significant amount of the vitamin content of foods. Pantothenic acid is fairly heat-stable, and is not broken down by cooking although it is destroyed by extremes of pH as may be created by adding such things as baking soda or vinegar.

Supplemental Sources

Oral supplements of both pantothenic acid and pantethine are available. The latter is quite expensive, and less stable than other types. Calcium pantothenate is one form of pantothenic acid made for oral use. Dexpanthenol is formulated for topical, intramuscular, or intravenous use. It is generally recommended that the B-vitamin family be taken in balanced amounts. Taking an excessive amount of an individual B-vitamin may have a detrimental effect on the absorption of others. As with all supplements, pantothenic acid should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, and out of the reach of children. A dose of up to 500 mg is often recommended.

Deficiency

Due to its wide availability in food sources, pure deficiency of pantothenic acid is unknown. It is possible, though, to have low levels in conjunction with other B vitamins under certain conditions. This category may include people with severe nutritional deficiencies; and those with conditions affecting absorption, such as sprue or removal of portions of the gastrointestinal tract. People who chronically abuse alcohol or other drugs, and those under excessive amounts of stress including debilitating illnesses or recovery from burns or surgery are also at higher risk of general vitamin deficiency. The elderly are more susceptible both to poor nutritional status and decreased vitamin absorption. Use of tobacco is also detrimental to B vitamin absorption. Athletes who have a strenuous, daily physical regimen and people with physically active occupations may require larger than average amounts of pantothenic acid.

Experimentally induced deficiency of pantothenic acid has caused fatigue, somnolence, headache, hyperreflexia of extremities, tingling, numbness, or burning in hands and feet, weakness, gastrointestinal problems, irritability, and increased numbers of infections.

Precautions

People with hemophilia should not use dexpanthenol as it may prolong bleeding time. Anyone with a known or suspected obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract should also not use this product.

Side Effects

Taken in very large doses, pantothenic acid may cause diarrhea. Topical use of dexpanthenol may cause a skin reaction.

Interactions

The effects of the medication levodopa may be decreased by supplemental pantothenic acid. This problem is not seen with combination carbidopa and levodopa products. These medications are often used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Anyone taking medication for this condition should consult a health care provider before taking nutritional supplements.

Resources

Books

Bratman, Steven, and David Kroll. Natural Health Bible. Prima Publishing, 1999.

Feinstein, Alice. Prevention's Healing with Vitamins. Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press, 1996.

Griffith, H. Winter. Vitamins, Herbs, Minerals & Supplements: The Complete Guide. Arizona: Fisher Books, 1998.

Jellin, Jeff, Forrest Batz, and Kathy Hitchens. Pharmacist's Letter/Prescriber's Letter Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. California: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 1999.

Pressman, Alan H., and Sheila Buff. The Complete Idiot's Guide to Vitamins and Minerals. New York: alpha books, 1997.

Periodicals

Rivera, Juan A., Teresita Gonzalez-Cossio, Mario Flores, et al. "Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation Increases the Growth of Mexican Infants." American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 74 (November 2001): 657.

[Article by: Judith Turner; Rebecca J. Frey, PhD]

 

Organic compound, essential in animal metabolism. The nature of the bound form was clarified through the discovery and synthesis (1947 – 50) of the compound pantetheine, which contains pantothenic acid combined with the compound thioethanolamine. Pantetheine is part of two larger compounds (coenzyme A and acyl-carrier protein) that promote a large number of metabolic reactions essential for the growth and well-being of animals. A dietary deficiency severe enough to lead to clear-cut disease has not been described in humans; however, when a person is severely malnourished, deficiency of the vitamin appears to contribute to the observed weakness and mental depression.

For more information on pantothenic acid, visit Britannica.com.

 
Sports Science and Medicine: pantothenic acid

vitamin B5

A water-soluble vitamin that plays a part in carbohydrate and fat metabolism. It is a constituent of coenzyme A. Deficiency causes neuromuscular dysfunction and fatigue. Pantothenic acid is found in liver, yeast. peas, and other legumes. No Reference Nutrient Intake is set in the UK because of insufficient information. In the USA, the Recommended Dietary Allowance is 4-7 mg.

 
Veterinary Dictionary: pantothenic acid

A vitamin of the B complex group present in all living tissues as part of the coenzyme A (CoA) molecule or the acyl carrier protein.

  • p. a. nutritional deficiency — a nutritional essential in all species other than ruminants which synthesize it in the rumen. Recorded as a natural occurrence only in poultry and pigs on heavy corn diets. Manifested in pigs by diarrhea, dermatitis, incoordination with a spastic gait and ulcerative colitis. Fowls show poor hatchability of eggs, poor feather development and dermatitis.
 
Wikipedia: pantothenic acid
Pantothenic acid
Image:Pantotheric acid structure.svg
IUPAC name 3-[(2,4-dihydroxy-3, 3-dimethyl-1-oxobutyl) amino]propanoic acid
Identifiers
CAS number 137-08-6
PubChem 988
SMILES CC(C)(CO)C(C(=O)NCCC(=O)O)O
Properties
Molecular formula C9H17NO5
Molar mass 219.235
Except where noted otherwise, data are given for
materials in their standard state
(at 25 °C, 100 kPa)

Infobox disclaimer and references

Pantotheric acid, also called vitamin B5 (a B vitamin), is a water-soluble vitamin required to sustain life (essential nutrient). Pantotheric acid is needed to form coenzyme-A (CoA), and is critical in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Chemically it is the amide between D-pantoate and beta-alanine. Its name is derived from the Greek pantothen (παντόθεν) meaning "from everywhere" and small quantities of pantotheric acid are found in nearly every food, with high amounts in whole grain cereals, legumes, eggs, meat, and royal jelly. It is commonly found as its alcohol analog, the provitamin panthenol, and as calcium pantotherate.

Biological role

Only the dextrorotatory (D) isomer of pantotheric acid possesses biologic activity.[1] The levorotatory (L) form may antagonize the effects of the dextrorotatory isomer.[2]

Pantotheric acid is used in the synthesis of coenzyme A (abbreviated as CoA). Coenzyme A may act as an acyl group carrier to form acetyl-CoA and other related compounds; this is a way to transport carbon atoms within the cell. The transfer of carbon atoms by coenzyme A is important in cellular respiration, as well as the biosynthesis of many important compounds such as fatty acids, cholesterol, and acetylcholine.

Since pantotheric acid participates in a wide array of key biological roles, it is considered essential to all forms of life.[3] As such, deficiencies in pantothenic acid may have numerous wide-ranging effects, as discussed below.

Pantotheric acid is vital for a healthy pregnancy.

Sources

Small quantities of pantotheric acid are found in most foods,[4] with high quantities found in whole grain and eggs. Pantothenic acid can also be found in many dietary supplements (as calcium-D-pantotherate), and some companies are now adding pantotheric acid to their beverages.

A recent study also suggests that gut bacteria in humans can generate pantotheric acid[5].

Daily requirement

Pantothenate in the form of pantethine is considered to be the more active form of the vitamin in the body, but is unstable at high temperatures or when stored for long periods, so calcium pantothenate is the more usual form of vitamin B5 when it is sold as a dietary supplement. 10 mg of calcium pantothenate is equivalent to 9.2 mg of pantothenic acid.

Age group Age Requirements

(in mg per day)

infants 0-6 months 1.7
infants 7-12 months 2
children 4-8 years 3
children 9-13.5 years 4
adolescents 14-18 years 5
adults 19 years and older 5
pregnant women 6
breastfeeding women 7
  • United Kingdom RDA: 6 mg/day

Deficiency

Pantothenic acid deficiency is exceptionally rare and has not been thoroughly studied. In the few cases where deficiency has been seen (victims of starvation and limited volunteer trials), nearly all symptoms can be reversed with the return of pantothenic acid.

Symptoms of deficiency are similar to other vitamin B deficiencies. Most are minor, including fatigue, allergies, nausea, and abdominal pain. In a few rare circumstances more serious (but reversible) conditions have been seen, such as adrenal insufficiency and hepatic encephalopathy.

Notably, painful burning sensations of the feet were reported in tests conducted on volunteers. Deficiency of pantothenic acid may explain similar sensations reported in malnourished prisoners of war.[3]

Disputed uses

Given pantothenic acid's prevalence among living things and the limited body of studies in deficiency, many "alternative" uses of pantothenic acid have been devised.

Hair care

Mouse models identified skin irritation and loss of hair color as possible results of severe pantothenic acid deficiency.[citation needed] As a result, the cosmetic industry began adding pantothenic acid to various cosmetic products, including shampoo. These products, however, showed no benefits in human trials.[citation needed] Despite this, many cosmetic products still advertise pantothenic acid additives.

Acne

Following from discoveries in mouse trials,[citation needed] in the late 1990s a small study was published promoting the use of pantothenic acid to treat acne vulgaris.

According to a study published in 1995 by Dr. Lit-Hung Leung,[6] high doses of Vitamin B5 resolved acne and decreased pore size. Dr. Leung also proposes a mechanism, stating that CoA regulates both hormones and fatty-acids, and without sufficient quantities of pantothenic acid, CoA will preferentially produce androgens.[citation needed] This causes fatty acids to build up and be excreted through sebaceous glands, causing acne.[citation needed] Leung's study gave 45 Asian males and 55 Asian females varying doses of 10-20g of pantothenic acid (100,000%-200,000% of the US Daily Value), 80% orally and 20% through topical cream. Leung noted improvement of acne within one week to one month of the start of the treatment.[citation needed]

Critics are quick to point out the flaws in Dr. Leung's study, however. Dr. Leung's study was not a double-blind placebo controlled trial. To date, the only study looking at the effect of Vitamin B5 on acne is Dr. Leung's, and few if any dermatologists prescribe high-dose pantothenic acid. Furthermore, there is no evidence documenting acetyl-CoA regulation of androgens instead of fatty acids in times of stress or limited availability, since fatty acids are also necessary for life.

Diabetic peripheral polyneuropathy

28 out of 33 patients (84,8%) previously treated with alpha-lipoic acid for peripheral polyneuropathy reported further improvement after combination with pantothenic acid. The theoretical basis for this is that both substances intervene at different sites in pyruvate metabolism and are thus more effective than one substance alone. Additional clinical findings indicated that diabetic neuropathy may occur in association with a latent prediabetic metabolic disturbance, and that the symptoms of neuropathy can be favourably influenced by the described combination therapy, even in poorly controlled diabetes. [7]

Today, many companies offer Vitamin B5 supplements aimed at reducing acne. The recommended treatment course, however, can be perceived as difficult and expensive. Many sites suggest starting off the first three days with 5g and then moving up to 10g a day for three months. Since the largest pill available is 1g, this can result in as many as 10 pills a day or more if smaller pills are taken. The average cost for a bottle of 200 B5 500mg tablets is $10, so the cost can be steep. B5 sold as a powder that can be dissolved in water and drunk is generally a cheaper and for some people a more convenient alternative. Furthermore, after three months many users suggest decreasing to 3-5g a day, with some claiming 1 g/day is sufficient.

Synonyms

  • Pantothenate
  • Vitamin B5
  • Vilantae — a brand name for the supplement when used to treat acne.

See also

Enzymes

  • Ketopantoate hydroxymethyltransferase

References

  1. ^ MedlinePlus. "Pantotheric acid (Vitamin-B5), Dexpanthenol". Natural Standard Research Collaboration. U.S. National Library of Medicine. Last accessed 4 Jan 2007. [1]
  2. ^ Kimura S, Furukawa Y, Wakasugi J, Ishihara Y, Nakayama A. Antagonism of L(-)pantothenic acid on lipid metabolism in animals. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 1980;26(2):113-7. PMID 7400861.
  3. ^ a b Jane Higdon, "Pantotheric Acid", Micronutrient Information Center, Linus Pauling Institute
  4. ^ Nutrient Data Products and Services, Nutrient Data : Reports by Single Nutrients. Retrieved on 2007-08-12.
  5. ^ Said H, Ortiz A, McCloud E, Dyer D, Moyer M, Rubin S (1998). "Biotin uptake by human colonic epithelial NCM460 cells: a carrier-mediated process shared with pantothenic acid.". Am J Physiol 275 (5 Pt 1): C1365-71. PMID 9814986. 
  6. ^ Leung L (1995). "Pantothenic acid deficiency as the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris". Med Hypotheses 44 (6): 490-2. PMID 7476595. 
  7. ^ Münchener Medizinische Wochenschrift (Germany), 1997, 139/12 (34-37)

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Food and Fitness. Food and Fitness: A Dictionary of Diet and Exercise. Copyright © 1997, 2003 by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.  Read more
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