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Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) Side Effects & Safety

Evidence:Moderate
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary — consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Safety Profile

Overall safety rating: Generally Safe

Potential Side Effects

  • Generally very well tolerated at standard doses
  • Diarrhea and gastrointestinal distress at very high doses (>10 g/day)
  • Contact dermatitis reported rarely with topical dexpanthenol
  • Possible nausea at high oral doses

Drug & Supplement Interactions

  • May enhance the effects of cholinesterase inhibitors (donepezil, rivastigmine)
  • High doses may reduce absorption of biotin due to shared intestinal transport
  • Tetracycline antibiotics — no significant known interactions

Maximum Dose

Do not exceed: No established upper limit; diarrhea and GI distress reported above 10 g/day

Full Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) Guide

References

  1. RCTRumberger JA, Napolitano J, Azumano I, Kamiya T, Evans M (2011). Pantethine, a derivative of vitamin B5 used as a nutritional supplement, favorably alters low-density lipoprotein cholesterol metabolism in low- to moderate-cardiovascular risk North American subjects. Nutrition Research. DOI PubMed
  2. ReviewLeung LH (1997). Pantothenic acid deficiency as the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris. Medical Hypotheses. DOI PubMed