Pantothenic acid is a water-soluble vitamin and belongs to the group of B vitamins. Pantothenic acid plays a central role in energy metabolism. As a component of coenzyme A, it is required for the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and various amino acids, as well as for the construction of fatty acids, cholesterol and steroid hormones. A deficiency is very rare among a balanced diet, a typical deficiency symptom would be the "burning feet syndrome".

A lack of pantothenic acid can lead to fatigue, weakness, skin problems and other symptoms. It is usually possible to include enough pantothenic acid through the diet, but in some cases a complementary intake of pantothenic acid preparations may help.

Pantothenic acid is found in almost all foods-at least in small quantities. Good sources are i. a. Liver, muscle meat, fish, milk, whole grains and legumes such as ripe peas.

The exact need is not known. The estimate of an adequate intake for adults (25 to <51 years) per day is 6 mg pantothenic acid. This value also applies to Pregnant And Women breastfeeding .

There are no reports of serious side effects when taking high doses of pantothenic acid. Excess vitamin is excreted through the urine.