Side Effects and Warnings

Oral: Pantothenic acid is likely safe when used orally in doses equivalent to the daily adequate intake (AI). Moderate doses have been ingested without significant reported adverse effects. Large amounts of pantothenic acid taken by mouth may cause diarrhea. In theory, nausea and heartburn may occur. It has been noted anecdotally that dexpanthenol may increase bleeding time and therefore potentially increase the risk of bleeding when combined with other agents with similar properties, but there is limited evidence in this area, and this is generally not regarded as a serious potential risk.

Topical: Use of dexpanthenol on the skin has been associated with skin irritation/contact dermatitis/eczema. Notably, dexpanthenol is found in many cosmetic products.

Injected: Some authors advise against the use of injected dexpanthenol in patients with gastrointestinal obstruction.