Clinical Information

Pantothenic acid, commonly known as vitamin B5, is a water-soluble vitamin. As part of acetyl CoA or an acyl carrier protein, pantothenic acid plays an essential role in metabolic pathways. It functions in the oxidation of both fatty acids and carbohydrates for energy production in the form of A TP. Vitamin B5 also participates in the synthesis of amino acids, fatty acids, ketones, cholesterol, phospholipids, and steroids. Additionally, vitamin B5 contributes to porphyrin and hemoglobin biochemistry and in adrenal function. Pantothenic acid deficiency is exceedingly rare, mostly affecting individuals who are severely malnourished. Those who lack an adequate amount of vitamin B5 may demonstrate symptoms such as paresthesias, muscle weakness, fatigue, nausea, abdominal pains and susceptibility to infection.