Dexpanthenol

Products

Dexpanthenol is commercially available in the form of creams, ointments (wound healing ointments), gels, lotions, solutions, lip balms, eye drops, nasal sprays, nasal ointments and foams, among others (selection). These are approved drugs, cosmetics and medical devices. Creams and ointments typically contain 5% of the active ingredient. The best-known brand containing the ingredient is Bepanthen (Bayer). Bepanthen ointment was originally developed by Roche and has been on the market since 1944 (!) Peroral medicines typically contain calcium pantothenate.

Structure and properties

Dexpanthenol (C9H19NO4, Mr = 205.3 g/mol) exists as a colorless to slightly yellow, viscous, hygroscopic liquid or as a white, crystalline powder. It is very soluble in water. Dexpanthenol is present in the active D configuration and is an alcohol analog (prodrug) of pantothenic acid, a vitamin of the vitamin B complex group.

Effects

Dexpanthenol (ATC A11HA30, ATC D03AX03, ATC S01XA12) has wound-healing and hydrating properties. It is enzymatically biotransformed (oxidized) in the organism to vitamin pantothenic acid, which is a component of coenzyme A. Coenzyme A has central functions in many metabolic processes (e.g. fatty acid synthesis) and is involved in the formation and regeneration of the skin and mucous membrane. Unlike pantothenic acid, dexpanthenol is better absorbed and transported across membranes. The effects can also be partially attributed to the excipients, e.g. the ointment base.

Indications for use

Indications for use include (selection):

Dosage

According to the professional information. The application depends on the product.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

There are no known drug-drug interactions with dermal use.

Adverse effects

Possible adverse effects include allergic reactions. These may also be triggered by excipients, e.g., lanolin.