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Dexpanthenol

Published: July 26, 2026Updated: August 24, 2026

Dexpanthenol is a provitamin B5 compound that converts to pantothenic acid in the body, supporting skin healing and repair processes. It is primarily used topically for wound healing and skin irritation.

Quick summary

Dexpanthenol is a topical and systemic vitamin B5 derivative used for wound healing, skin hydration, and treating various skin and mucous membrane conditions.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 24, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ATC
A11HA30
RxNorm
22701
Generic
Dexpanthenol
Class
atc-a11
Brands
Infuvite, Infuvite Pediatric, Ellis Tonic, Eldertonic
Availability
rx
Lactation
unknown
Routes
oral, topical
Forms
solution, tablet, ointment
Regions
US, EU, CN, JP
Monitoring
—

This page is for informational purposes only.

Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

Dosage and administration

adult (standard)tablet
Usual dose
500mg twice daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
every 12 hours
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
pediatric (standard)tablet
Usual dose
250mg twice daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
every 12 hours
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
geriatric (standard)tablet
Usual dose
400mg daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
once daily
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard

Overdose information

Important overdose information
Toxic dose: Single dose that may cause serious toxicity
Chronic overdose: Prolonged high-dose supplementation may lead to liver enzyme elevations
Immediate actions
Gastric lavage within 1-2 hours of ingestion, activated charcoal administration, supportive care
Antidote
No specific antidote available - supportive care only(Supportive treatment effectiveness varies based on dose and time since ingestion)
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Special Populations

9 groups
⚠

pregnancy

first trimester
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

use only if benefits outweigh risks

Key Recommendations

avoid oral formulations during first trimester unless specifically prescribed, topical application generally considered safer

Monitor

regular prenatal monitoring

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

pregnancy

second trimester
caution
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

use with caution

Key Recommendations

topical dexpanthenol cream may be used for skin care, oral supplements only if prescribed

Monitor

routine prenatal checkups

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✓

pregnancy

third trimester
safe
FDA Category
C
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed for topical use

Key Recommendations

topical application is generally considered safe for skin care

Monitor

standard prenatal care

✓

lactation

breastfeeding
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

topical dexpanthenol is safe during breastfeeding; oral supplements should be discussed with healthcare provider

Monitor

no specific monitoring required

✓

geriatric

elderly
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no specific adjustment required

Key Recommendations

suitable for elderly patients; monitor skin sensitivity with topical use

Monitor

periodic skin assessment for topical users

⚠

pediatric_age

infants
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

use under medical supervision

Key Recommendations

only use pediatric formulations as directed by physician; avoid adult formulations

Monitor

monitor for skin irritation or allergic reactions

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✓

pediatric_age

children
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

use age-appropriate formulations

Key Recommendations

topical dexpanthenol is generally safe for children; follow dosing guidelines for supplements

Monitor

monitor for skin sensitivity

✓

renal_impairment

mild to moderate
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed for topical use

Key Recommendations

topical application does not require dose adjustment; oral supplements use standard dosing

Monitor

no specific monitoring required

✓

hepatic_impairment

any
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

dexpanthenol is metabolized locally in skin; no hepatic dose adjustment required

Monitor

no specific monitoring required

Statistics and clinical data

drug_classFDA
2023

Drug class

Value:Provitamin B5 / Dermal moisturizer

Dexpanthenol is a provitamin of pantothenic acid used in topical formulations

usageClinical guidelines
2023

Common uses

Value:Skin moisturization, wound healing, skin barrier support

Topical application for skin conditions

prescribingFDA
2023

Commonly prescribed since

Value:1970s

Historical prescribing information for topical dexpanthenol products

formulationPharmaceutical standards
2023

Common formulations

Value:Creams, ointments, lotions, solutions

Available pharmaceutical dosage forms

Topical dexpanthenol is used for minor wounds, burns, skin irritations, dry skin, and as a moisturizing agent. It may also be used for aftercare following laser treatments or superficial dermatological procedures. Oral formulations may be used for certain gastrointestinal conditions involving mucous membrane healing.

Dexpanthenol acts as a humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin. Once absorbed, it converts to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), which plays a role in cellular metabolism and the synthesis of coenzyme A, supporting the skin's natural repair mechanisms and promoting epithelial cell regeneration.

Dexpanthenol is generally well-tolerated with minimal systemic absorption when applied topically. It is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the substance. Avoid application on actively infected wounds. As a vitamin derivative, drug interactions are uncommon, but consult a healthcare provider for specific medical advice.

Contraindications

Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.

Do not use (1)

ABSOLUTEhypersensitivity

Known allergy to this medication or its components

Use caution (1)

RELATIVEpregnancy

Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment

Official drug label

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy