Vitamin B5
Description
Pantothenic acid, commonly known as Vitamin B5, is a crucial water-soluble B vitamin. It plays a central role in numerous metabolic pathways, primarily as a component of coenzyme A (CoA). CoA is vital for the synthesis and breakdown of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, making B5 indispensable for energy production and nutrient utilization. Beyond its role in energy metabolism, Vitamin B5 is involved in the synthesis of steroid hormones, cholesterol, and various neurotransmitters. It also contributes to the production of red blood cells and supports the adrenal glands, which are responsible for stress response. Its broad involvement in bodily functions highlights its importance for overall health and well-being. Pantothenic acid is readily available from a wide array of food sources, and deficiencies are rare due to its widespread presence ("pantothen" comes from the Greek word "pantothen," meaning "from everywhere"). Supplementation is typically considered safe at recommended doses, with few adverse effects.
Sources
Meat (chicken, beef, liver)FishWhole grainsAvocadoMushroomsPotatoesEggsLegumesDairy productsBroccoli
Cheapest Vitamin B5 supplements
Best Vitamin B5 supplements
Value Vitamin B5 supplements
Timing & Intake
AnytimeWith food
Can be taken with food to enhance absorption and reduce potential mild digestive discomfort. As a water-soluble vitamin, it doesn't require specific timing but is often part of B-complex supplements taken with a meal.
Daily Intake
RDA (Men)5 mg
RDA (Women)5 mg
RDI5 mg
Optimal Dosage
Minimum10 mg
Maximum50 mg
Safety & Toxicity
Toxicity Threshold10000 mg
Toxicity Effectdiarrhea, water retention
Goals
Energy
Impact
Highest effect
Typical dose:5–10 mg
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) is central to energy production via the Krebs cycle and the breakdown of fatty acids. It's fundamental for creating ATP from all macronutrients, making it essential for sustained energy.
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Metabolism Boost
Impact
Highest effect
Typical dose:5–10 mg
Pantothenic Acid is central to metabolism because as part of Coenzyme A, it is required for the oxidation of fatty acids and for the entry point into the citric acid cycle (as Acetyl-CoA). Virtually all energy-yielding pathways depend on it, establishing it as a foundational nutrient for metabolism.
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Stress Relief
Impact
Moderate effect
Typical dose:50–250 mg
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) is a critical component of Coenzyme A, which is essential for the synthesis of stress hormones like cortisol in the adrenal glands. Ensuring adequate levels helps the body maintain a robust and balanced response to stressors, preventing depletion during chronic stress. It is most effective as part of a B-complex.
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Skin Health
Impact
Situational effect
Typical dose:50–250 mg
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) is involved in synthesizing coenzyme A, which is essential for fatty acid metabolism. This supports the skin's lipid barrier, aiding hydration and wound healing. It is particularly noted for its potential to help regulate sebum production, making it situationally useful for acne-prone skin.
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Interactions
Positive Interactions
Vitamin B6
B5 and B6 work together in numerous metabolic pathways, including amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis.
Biotin
Both B5 and Biotin are B vitamins essential for metabolism, particularly of fats and carbohydrates.
Folate
As part of the B-complex, B5 works synergistically with Folate in various metabolic functions, including cell growth and repair.
Niacin
Another B vitamin that collaborates with B5 in energy production and other metabolic processes.
Riboflavin
As part of the B-complex, Riboflavin assists B5 in energy metabolism and enzyme function.
Thiamin
Essential for carbohydrate metabolism, Thiamin works with B5 and other B vitamins in converting food into energy.
Vitamin B12
All B vitamins work together; B12 is crucial for energy and nerve function, complementing B5's roles.
Choline
Choline and B5 are both involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and fat metabolism.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a cofactor for many enzymes involved in energy production, supporting the metabolic processes B5 facilitates.
L-Carnitine
B5 is essential for the synthesis of Coenzyme A, which is needed for fatty acid transport, a process L-Carnitine also supports.
Acetyl L-Carnitine
Similar to L-Carnitine, B5's role in CoA synthesis indirectly supports the fatty acid transport and energy production facilitated by Acetyl L-Carnitine.
Coenzyme Q-10
Both B5 (via Coenzyme A) and Coenzyme Q-10 are crucial for cellular energy production within the mitochondria.
Cysteine
Cysteine is a precursor to Coenzyme A, for which Vitamin B5 is a key component.
Glutathione
B vitamins, including B5, support liver detoxification pathways which are crucial for glutathione's antioxidant functions.
Recommended products
Best 
Pantothenic Acid B5 500 mg
Jarrow Formulas
Vitamin B5: 500 mg
This Jarrow Formulas product provides a standard 500 mg dose of Pantothenic Acid (D-Calcium Pantothenate) in vegetarian capsules, supporting metabolism, energy, and stress response.
Budget 
Complete Multivitamin Adults 50+
Equate
Vitamin B5: 10 mg
This multivitamin for adults 50+ offers a foundational blend of essential vitamins, minerals, and key carotenoids like Lutein and Lycopene, supporting general health, bone density, and vision at a very accessible price.
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Pantothenic Acid 500 mg
NOW
Vitamin B5: 500 mg
This Pantothenic Acid supplement delivers a standard 500 mg dose of Vitamin B5 (Calcium Pantothenate) in a convenient capsule form, suitable for daily support of energy, metabolism, and skin health.
Budget 
One Daily Men's Health
Equate
Vitamin B5: 16 mg
This is a standard daily multivitamin for men, providing a broad mix of essential vitamins and minerals, including lycopene, in a convenient one-tablet dose for general nutritional support.
Budget 
One Daily Essential
21st Century
Vitamin B5: 10 mg
A very affordable, basic daily multivitamin providing essential vitamins and some calcium for general wellness support.
Value 
B-50
NOW
Vitamin B5: 50 mg
A reliable B-complex offering moderate doses of essential B vitamins, plus choline, inositol, and PABA, at a very budget-friendly price per serving.
Best 
Pantethine 300 mg
Protocol For Life Balance
Vitamin B5: 300 mg
This Pantethine supplement provides 300 mg of the more active Vitamin B5 derivative in a softgel, often chosen for targeted support of lipid metabolism, energy, and stress response.
Budget 
Sentry Senior
21st Century
Vitamin B5: 10 mg
A comprehensive and affordable daily multivitamin for seniors, providing essential vitamins, minerals, plus Lutein and Lycopene for broad health and vision support.
Value 
B-100
NOW
Vitamin B5: 100 mg
A high-potency B-complex providing 100mg/mcg of most B vitamins, plus choline, inositol, and PABA, at a great price per serving for long-term use.
Best 
Cortico-B5B6
Metagenics
Vitamin B5: 500 mg
This supplement provides a potent blend of B5, B6, Vitamin C, and Magnesium, focused on supporting energy and the body's response to everyday stress.
Value 
Pantothenic Acid 500 mg
Swanson
Vitamin B5: 500 mg
This Swanson Pantothenic Acid provides a 500 mg dose of D-Calcium Pantothenate in a capsule form, suitable for long-term daily support of energy, metabolism, and skin.
Value 
Pantothenic Acid 500 mg
NOW
Vitamin B5: 500 mg
A standard 500 mg Pantothenic Acid (Calcium Pantothenate) supplement from NOW in capsule form, providing foundational support for energy, metabolism, and stress response.
Value 
Pantothenic Acid 250 mg
Source Naturals
Vitamin B5: 250 mg
This Source Naturals product delivers 250 mg of Pantothenic Acid (Calcium D-Pantothenate) in a tablet, offering long-lasting and economical support for metabolism, energy, and stress response.
Best 
Stress B-Complex
Thorne
Vitamin B5: 250 mg
A specialized B-complex with a high dose of Pantothenic Acid (B5) for stress support, active B12, and other essential B vitamins, offered in a capsule form.
Budget 
Complete Multivitamin
Equate
Vitamin B5: 10 mg
This multivitamin offers a broad range of basic vitamins and minerals to support general daily health and fill common nutritional gaps at an economical price.
Budget 
One Daily Women's Health
Equate
Vitamin B5: 10 mg
This multivitamin provides essential vitamins and minerals in a convenient daily tablet, formulated to help meet the general nutritional needs of women.
Value 
B-Complex '50'
Solgar
Vitamin B5: 50 mg
A large-quantity B-complex delivering 50mg/mcg of most B vitamins, plus inositol, choline, and a minimal herbal blend, in capsule form.
Best 
Double Strength Pantethine 600 mg
NOW
Vitamin B5: 600 mg
A high-potency 600 mg Pantethine supplement from NOW, ideal for advanced metabolic support and energy production.
Best 
Pantothenic Acid 1000 mg
KAL
Vitamin B5: 1000 mg
This KAL product offers a high 1000 mg dose of Pantothenic Acid (Calcium D-Pantothenate) in tablet form, designed for intensive support of metabolism, energy, and overall cellular functions.
Budget 
One Daily Men's Health
Equate
Vitamin B5: 16 mg
This is a comprehensive and budget-friendly multivitamin for men, providing a wide array of essential vitamins and minerals for daily nutritional support.
Best 
Pantothenic Acid 1000 mg
NaturesPlus
Vitamin B5: 1000 mg
This NaturesPlus product delivers a high 1000 mg dose of Pantothenic Acid (Calcium Pantothenate) in tablet form, intended for intensive support of metabolism, energy, and overall cellular health.
Budget 
Sentry Adults
21st Century
Vitamin B5: 10 mg
A very affordable and broad-spectrum daily multivitamin and multimineral for adults, offering foundational nutritional support for overall well-being.
Budget 
Complete Multivitamin Adults 50+
Equate
Vitamin B5: 10 mg
This multivitamin is designed for adults over 50, offering higher Vitamin D3 and eye-supporting nutrients at a very cost-effective price, providing good daily nutritional support.
Budget 
Complete Multivitamin
Equate
Vitamin B5: 10 mg
This multivitamin delivers a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals at a highly affordable price, making it a sensible choice for basic daily nutritional support for many adults.
Value 
Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B-5) 500 mg
Life Extension
Vitamin B5: 500 mg
This is a standard 500 mg Pantothenic Acid (D-Calcium Pantothenate) supplement from Life Extension in capsule form, aimed at supporting energy, metabolism, and stress response.
Best 
Adrenotone
Designs for Health
Vitamin B5: 250 mg
This blend combines key adaptogens and active B vitamins to support stress management, energy, and mental clarity, fitting those seeking daily resilience.
Value 
Balance B-100 Complex High-Potency
Swanson
Vitamin B5: 100 mg
A cost-effective, larger supply of the B-100 complex offering a broad spectrum of B vitamins, choline, inositol, and PABA, with some B vitamins (B6, Biotin) at lower potencies (100mcg) and standard forms for folate and B12.
Best 
Pantothenic Acid 550 mg
Solgar
Vitamin B5: 550 mg
A high-dose Vitamin B5 option at 550 mg that supports energy metabolism and general well-being.
Product stats
Price per product
Average$31.47
Median$26.79
Price per serving
Average$0.76
Median$0.56
Price per 10 mg
Average$0.37
Median$0.19
Price distribution
Price per serving distribution
Price per 10 mg
Reference amount: 10 mg
Forms
Paired ingredients
Ingredient forms
D-Calcium Pantothenate (313) 90
D-Calcium Pantothenate is a widely used and stable salt form of Vitamin B5, meaning the active D-pantothenic acid is bound to calcium. This form is well-absorbed in the digestive system and efficiently converted to coenzyme A, which is vital for numerous metabolic processes. It is a preferred form in many dietary supplements due to its stability and excellent bioavailability.
Pros
- Highly stable
- Excellent bioavailability
- Well-researched and widely available
- Generally well-tolerated
Cons
- Requires conversion in the body to its active form (pantothenic acid), though this process is efficient
Per product
Avg$29.05
Med$23.99
Per serving
Avg$0.76
Med$0.45
Per 10 mg
Avg$0.34
Med$0.16
Price distribution
Calcium D-Pantothenate (269) 90
Calcium D-Pantothenate is the preferred and most common supplemental form of Vitamin B5, explicitly indicating the biologically active D-isomer bound to calcium. This combination ensures stability and optimal absorption. Once absorbed, it is readily utilized by the body to synthesize coenzyme A, which is indispensable for carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism, and for the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, and steroid hormones.
Pros
- Highly stable with excellent bioavailability
- Explicitly contains the active D-isomer
- Well-researched and widely available
Cons
- No significant cons compared to other effective forms.
Per product
Avg$33.19
Med$29.59
Per serving
Avg$0.75
Med$0.60
Per 10 mg
Avg$0.37
Med$0.19
Price distribution
Calcium Pantothenate (243) 90
Calcium Pantothenate is a common supplemental form of Vitamin B5, usually referring to D-Calcium Pantothenate. It combines pantothenic acid with calcium, enhancing stability and ease of incorporation into supplements. Upon ingestion, it releases pantothenic acid, which is then converted into coenzyme A, a key molecule for energy production and nutrient metabolism.
Pros
- Stable and widely available
- Good bioavailability
- Generally well-tolerated
Cons
- Generic term, might not always explicitly state D-isomer, though usually implies it for supplements.
Per product
Avg$33.90
Med$25.46
Per serving
Avg$0.76
Med$0.48
Per 10 mg
Avg$0.26
Med$0.16
Price distribution
Vitamin B5 (84) 90
Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is an essential water-soluble vitamin required for numerous metabolic functions, including the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA). CoA is crucial for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and for the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, and steroid hormones. While "Vitamin B5" refers to the nutrient itself, supplements typically contain a stable form like calcium pantothenate.
Pros
- Essential nutrient for overall health
- Involved in critical metabolic pathways
Cons
- As a general term, it doesn't specify a particular form, which can impact absorption or stability in supplements.
Per product
Avg$43.17
Med$30.98
Per serving
Avg$0.77
Med$0.54
Per 100 mg
Avg$1.92
Med$0.52
Price distribution
Pantethine (38) 92
Pantethine is a derivative of pantothenic acid that is composed of two pantetheine molecules. Pantetheine is the precursor to coenzyme A, making pantethine a more direct and often considered more metabolically active form of Vitamin B5. It is particularly known for its potential role in supporting healthy lipid profiles, as it's a key component of the acyl carrier protein (ACP) and coenzyme A, involved in fatty acid synthesis and degradation.
Pros
- Directly converts to pantetheine and then coenzyme A
- Potentially more potent for specific metabolic pathways (e.g., lipid metabolism)
- Well-absorbed
Cons
- More expensive than standard pantothenic acid forms
- May not be necessary for general B5 supplementation
Per product
Avg$28.99
Med$27.84
Per serving
Avg$0.65
Med$0.68
Per 100 mg
Avg$0.58
Med$0.59
Price distribution
Pantothenic Acid (8) 85
Pantothenic acid is the biologically active core compound of Vitamin B5. It is a water-soluble vitamin essential for life, primarily acting as a precursor to coenzyme A (CoA). CoA is critical for energy metabolism, fatty acid synthesis and breakdown, and the synthesis of neurotransmitters and hormones. While fundamental, the free acid form is less stable than its salt derivatives like calcium pantothenate, especially when exposed to heat, acid, or alkaline conditions.
Pros
- The active chemical form, essential for all B5 functions
Cons
- Less stable than salt forms, can degrade during processing or storage, potentially leading to lower potency in supplements if not properly stabilized.
Per product
Avg$26.84
Med$27.92
Per serving
Avg$0.80
Med$0.85
Per 10 mg
Avg$0.53
Med$0.43
Price distribution
D-Panthenol (5) 90
d-Panthenol is synonymous with D-Panthenol and dexpanthenol. It is a provitamin of B5, meaning it converts to pantothenic acid within the body or upon topical application. It is highly valued in cosmetics and skincare for its ability to hydrate, soothe, and promote tissue repair, making it effective for improving skin barrier function and overall skin health. When taken internally, it serves as a bioavailable source of Vitamin B5.
Pros
- Excellent for topical skin and hair health
- Readily converted to active B5
- Well-tolerated, effective orally
Cons
- Less common in oral supplements compared to calcium pantothenate
- Primarily known for topical applications
Per product
Avg$12.22
Med$12.22
Per serving
Avg$0.73
Med$0.66
Per 10 mg
Avg$0.12
Med$0.12
Price distribution
organic Brown Rice (5) 60
Organic brown rice is a natural, unprocessed whole grain that contains pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) along with other B vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. While it contributes to overall B5 intake as part of a balanced diet, it is not a concentrated or isolated form of Vitamin B5. Its benefits stem from the synergy of its complete nutritional profile, rather than delivering a high dose of a single nutrient.
Pros
- Natural food source of B5 and other essential nutrients
- Provides dietary fiber
- Certified organic status
Cons
- Not a concentrated source of Vitamin B5
- B5 intake levels are highly variable
- Not suitable for targeted high-dose B5 supplementation
Per product
Avg$32.65
Med$29.59
Per serving
Avg$0.83
Med$0.88
Per 10 mg
Avg$0.44
Med$0.46
Price distribution