What is the recommended dosage for Pantothenic Acid?

General: 5 mg/day (AI); Acne Skin Health: 500-2,000 mg/day (high-dose protocol)

What are the side effects of Pantothenic Acid?

Potential side effects include: Diarrhea at very high doses, Mild gastrointestinal discomfort.

What is pantothenic acid and how may it support skin health?

Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is involved in coenzyme A synthesis, which is critical for fatty acid metabolism and skin barrier lipid production. It is widely used in topical skincare as dexpanthenol. Some clinical evidence suggests high-dose oral pantothenic acid may reduce acne lesions, possibly through improved lipid metabolism.

What dosage of pantothenic acid has been studied for acne?

An RCT found that a pantothenic acid-based supplement at an equivalent of approximately 2,200 mg B5 per day significantly reduced acne lesions after 12 weeks. Earlier observational studies used much higher doses (up to 10 grams daily), which are not recommended. The Adequate Intake is only 5 mg for adults.

What are the potential side effects of pantothenic acid supplements?

Pantothenic acid is generally well tolerated at moderate supplemental doses. Very high doses (above 10 grams daily) may cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal distress. No tolerable upper intake level has been established. At studied acne doses (2–5 grams), mild digestive discomfort has been reported. Topical dexpanthenol is very well tolerated.

Pantothenic Acid

other

Also known as: Vitamin B5, Calcium D-Pantothenate, Dexpanthenol (topical), D-Pantothenic Acid

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Pantothenic acid is a precursor to coenzyme A (CoA), essential for fatty acid synthesis. A randomized double-blind trial found high-dose pantothenic acid (2,200 mg/day for 12 weeks) significantly reduced total facial acne lesions by 68.2%. The high doses required are considerably above the AI (5 mg/day).

How It Works

Precursor to coenzyme A (CoA), essential for fatty acid synthesis and metabolism; supports skin barrier lipid production; high-dose supplementation may redirect CoA toward fatty acid oxidation in sebaceous glands, potentially reducing sebum production and acne.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Acne	C	3	200	View →

Side Effects

Diarrhea at very high doses
Mild gastrointestinal discomfort

Drug & Supplement Interactions

No significant drug interactions documented at typical doses
May enhance acetylcholine production (theoretical interaction with cholinergic drugs)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

N-Acetyl Cysteine Vitamin K

Quick Facts

Dosage: General: 5 mg/day (AI); Acne_Skin_Health: 500-2,000 mg/day (high-dose protocol)
Forms: capsule tablet powder topical (dexpanthenol)
Natural Sources: Liver, Chicken, Sunflower seeds, Mushrooms, Avocado, Yogurt, Whole grains
Upper Limit: Not established; high doses (10,000+ mg/day) may cause GI distress
Best Time: With meals; split doses recommended for high amounts

Evidence Summary

Acne C

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.