B5 is stable to moist heat and oxidation or reduction (adding or subtracting an electron), though it is easily destroyed by acids (such as vinegar) or alkalis (such as baking soda) and by dry heat. Over half of the pantothenic acid in wheat is lost during milling, and about one-third is degraded in meat during cooking. In many whole foods, vitamin B5 is readily available.

Sources: The name pantothenic acid comes from the Greek word pantos, meaning "everywhere," referring to its wide availability in foods. Therefore, it is easily accessible in the diet, and deficiency is uncommon, except in those with a highly processed diet, since much of the available vitamin B5 activity is lost during refinement of foods. Good sources of pantothenic acid include the organ meats, brewer’s yeast, egg yolks, fish, chicken, whole grain cereals, cheese, peanuts, dried beans, and a variety of vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, green peas, cauliflower, and avocados. Vitamin B5 is also made by the bacterial flora of human intestines, another source for this important metabolic assistant or coenzyme.

Functions: Pantothenic acid as coenzyme A is closely involved in adrenal cortex function and has come to be known as the "antistress" vitamin. It supports the adrenal glands to increase production of cortisone and other adrenal hormones to help counteract stress and enhance metabolism. Through this mechanism, pantothenic acid is also thought to help prevent aging and wrinkles. It is generally important to healthy skin and nerves. Through its adrenal support, vitamin B5 may reduce potentially toxic effects of antibiotics and radiation.

As the coenzyme, pantothenic acid is important in cellular metabolism of carbohydrates and fats to release energy. As coenzyme A, it supports the synthesis of acetylcholine, a very important neurotransmitter agent that works throughout the body in a variety of neuromuscular reactions. Coenzyme A is vital in the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, steroids, sphingosines, and phospholipids. It also helps synthesize porphyrin, which is connected to hemoglobin.

Uses: Pantothenic acid, found in a wide range of sources, is used in a wide variety of conditions. Again, it is known as the "antistress" vitamin and is used to relieve fatigue and stress and the many problems induced by stress, through its support of the adrenal glands. Allergies, headaches, arthritis, psoriasis, insomnia, asthma, and infections have all been treated with some effectiveness using vitamin B5, possibly through its adrenal support and adequate production of adrenocorticosteroids.

Vitamin B5 has also been used after surgery when there is paralysis of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract to stimulate GI peristalsis. It has been helpful in many cases for people who grind their teeth at night, a problem called bruxism. Other conditions treated by this vitamin are nerve disorders such as neuritis, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis and various levels of mental illness and alcoholism. Of course, the effectiveness may vary in all these situations according to amount supplemented, length of time used, and individual responsiveness. Sound research to support the use of pantothenic acid in many of these treatments or for its energy-enhancing or antiaging effects is lacking, although some research has shown positive results from the use of calcium pantothenate in reducing arthritis symptoms of joint pain and stiffness.