Dexpanthenol is a synthetic derivative of pantothenic acid, a B complex vitamin that is found in all living cells and, as a result, a wide range of foods. Dexpanthenol is used parenterally as a gastrointestinal stimulant to treat and prevent ileus after GI surgery and in other conditions with impaired GI activity. Dexpanthenol was approved by the FDA in 1948.

Uses/Benefits:

Post Operative: Used after surgery to help minimize the possibility of paralytic ileus;GI stimulant for post -op ileus, may improve colitis

Skin/Hair/Eye health : Improves skin health by promoting the production of skin oils and reducing inflammation. 

Cardiovascular Health:  May also help reduce cholesterol levels, improve heart health, and boost energy levels.

Energy/Metabolism/Hormones and Neurotransmitter Support: Involved in the  metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as well as the production of hormones and neurotransmitters.Critical to Energy Production; also may increase sexual endurance

Basic Information

Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It plays a role in many important processes, including the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, as well as the production of hormones and neurotransmitters.

Vitamin B5 can be found in many foods, including meat, poultry, fish, whole grains, nuts, and legumes. It is also available in supplement form, often as part of a B-complex vitamin supplement. Bacteria living in the gut are also able to synthesize pantothenic acid, but not in large enough quantities to meet dietary needs. Dexpanthenol acts as a precursor of coenzyme A, which plays a major role in the synthesis and oxidation of fatty acids. Coenzyme A is necessary for acetylation reactions and is key to the synthesis of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a neurohumoral transmitter active in the parasympathetic nervous system that maintains the normal functions of the intestine. A decrease in acetylcholine levels can lead to decreased peristalsis or even adynamic ileus in extreme cases, impairing the body’s gastrointestinal processes. When prescribed appropriately, dexpanthenol provides the body with the building blocks it needs to produce coenzyme A and adequate amounts of acetylcholine, allowing us to keep the intestines functioning normally. The exact pharmacological mode of action of dexpanthenol is still unknown.

There are several potential benefits of vitamin B5 supplementation. For example, it may help improve skin health by promoting the production of skin oils and reducing inflammation. It may also help reduce cholesterol levels, improve heart health, and boost energy levels. In general, the recommended daily intake of vitamin B5 for adults is 5 mg per day. However, higher doses may be used for certain conditions or as recommended by a healthcare provider.

In conclusion, vitamin B5 is an important nutrient that plays a key role in many bodily processes. While it is available in many foods, it may also be taken in supplement form. 

Mechanisms of Action:Dexpanthenol is a precursor needed for acetylcholine synthesis (coenzyme A), which in turn causes parasympathetic activity to maintain normal GI activity. The exact mechanism is not known.

Adverse Reactions/Side Effects: 

Possible side effects of vitamin B5 supplementation are generally mild and uncommon. These may include nausea, diarrhea, and stomach upset.

There was a case report of respiratory depression following dexpanthenol administration.

Two patients experienced vomiting and diarrhea in the days following surgery and dexpanthenol administration.There are minimal case reports of allergic reactions such as pruritus, urticaria, rash (unspecified), tingling, and difficulty breathing. If this occurs, dexpanthenol should be discontinued