Pantothenic Acid
(Vitamin B 5
) Pronunciation: pan-to-THE-nik AS-idClass: Water-soluble vitamin
Trade Names
Pantothenic acid
- Tablets, oral 100 mg
- Tablets, oral 200 mg
- Tablets, oral 500 mg
Pharmacology
Pantothenic acid is a precursor of coenzyme A, which is a cofactor for a variety of enzyme-catalyzed reactions involving transfer of acetyl groups. Functions of pantothenic acid include oxidative metabolism of carbohydrates, gluconeogenesis, synthesis and degradation of fatty acids, and synthesis of steroids (cholesterol), steroid hormones, sphingosine, citrate, acetoacetate, and porphyrins.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Absorbed from the GI tract.
Distribution
Distributed to all tissues in concentrations ranging from 2 to 45 mcg/g.
Elimination
Approximately 70% excreted from the urine.
Special Populations
Renal Function ImpairmentNo data available.
Hepatic Function ImpairmentNo data available.
Indications and Usage
As a dietary supplement to treat pantothenic acid deficiency.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to pantothenic acid.
Dosage and Administration
Dietary Reference IntakesLactation
PO 7 mg/day (Adequate Intake (AI) value).
PregnancyPO 6 mg/day (AI value).
Adults and Children 14 y of age and olderPO 5 mg/day (AI value).
Children 9 to 13 y of agePO 4 mg/day (AI value).
Children 4 to 8 y of agePO 3 mg/day (AI value).
Children 1 to 3 y of agePO 2 mg/day (AI value).
Children 7 to 12 mo1.8 mg/day (AI value).
Children 0 to 6 mo1.7 mg/day (AI value).
Pantothenic Acid DeficiencyAdults
PO 1 or 2 tablets daily.
General Advice
- Should be taken with a meal.
Storage/Stability
Store between 59° and 86°F in a cool, dry place away from direct heat, light, and moisture.
Drug Interactions
BiotinLife-threatening eosinophilic pleuropericarditis has been reported with concurrent use.
Adverse Reactions
Dermatologic
Rash.
GI
Diarrhea at large doses.
Precautions
Pregnancy
Category A .
Lactation
Excreted in human breast milk. Considered compatible with breast-feeding per Briggs' Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation .
Overdosage
Symptoms
Overdosage has not been reported.
Patient Information
- Advise patients to take with food.
- Advise patients not to take large doses of vitamins (megadoses or megavitamin therapy) while taking this medication unless otherwise directed by their health care provider.
- Advise patients to report any of the following severe adverse reactions to their health care provider immediately: severe allergic reactions (eg, rash; hives; difficultly breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth face, lips, or tongue).
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