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      D-Panthenol

      What is D-panthenol?

      D-Panthenol is what we call a provitamin.  Provitamins are compounds that must be activated by the body to become a vitamin that can be used by our cells.  In this case, D-Panthenol is turned into vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid. 


      Why is D-panthenol part of my treatment plan?

      Your answers to the questionnaire and genetic testing indicate that you would benefit from therapy with D-panthenol.  Another function of this crucial vitamin is the formation of Coenzyme A.  Coenzyme A is essential for making the fatty acids that are a part of the skin’s natural lubricants. Topical preparations using 1-5% D-panthenol have been shown to improve skin moisturization, enhance collagen production, enhance skin barrier function, reduce dryness and irritation of the skin, prevent early hair greying, aid in the restoration of normal hair color, and supports normal hair growth.1-3 


      What are the food sources of D-panthenol?

      Food sources of vitamin B5 include broccoli, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, eggs, nuts, chicken, legumes, nuts, and cabbage.4 


      How do deficiencies in D-panthenol occur?

      Deficiencies of vitamin B5 are very rare.  A rare genetic condition named pantothenate kinase-associated neurodegeneration is associated with deficiency.


      What are the symptoms of D-panthenol deficiency?

      Deficiencies in vitamin B5 are rare.  Symptoms of a deficiency include fatigue, insomnia, depression, burning in the feet, vomiting, and frequent upper respiratory infections.


      What does D-panthenol do in the body?

      Vitamin B5 is necessary for the normal functioning of our digestive system and nervous system, metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, and the production of red blood cells, sex hormones, and stress hormones. It also has a role in keeping our skin and hair healthy.  Pantothenic Acid.4


      Does D-panthenol have adverse effects? 

      Topical therapy with D-panthenol is well tolerated.  There are reports of itching, dermatitis, burning, and eczema with topical therapy.4


      References

      1. Stettler H, Kurka P, Lunau N, Manger C, Böhling A, Bielfeldt S, Wilhelm KP, Dähnhardt-Pfeiffer S, Dähnhardt D, Brill FH, Lenz H. A new topical panthenol-containing emollient: Results from two randomized controlled studies assessing its skin moisturization and barrier restoration potential, and the effect on skin microflora. J Dermatolog Treat. 2017 Mar;28(2):173-180. doi: 10.1080/09546634.2016.1214235. Epub 2016 Aug 2. PMID: 27425824.
      2. Goluch-Koniuszy ZS. Nutrition of women with hair loss problem during the period of menopause. Prz Menopauzalny. 2016;15(1):56-61. doi:10.5114/pm.2016.58776
      3. Camargo FB Jr, Gaspar LR, Maia Campos PM. Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations. J Cosmet Sci. 2011;62(4):361-370.
      4. Pantothenic Acid. Natural medicines - login. (n.d.). Retrieved October 26, 2021, from https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=853#mechanismOfAction.