Dexpanthenol
(+)-2,4-Dihydroxy-N-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,3-dimethylbutyramide
Also known as: Ilopan · Bepanthen · d-Panthenol · Provitamin B5 · d-Pantothenyl alcohol · Pantothenol
Reviewed by the VetSheet Veterinary TeamUpdated Apr 5, 2026Evidence-based veterinary reference
Dosing by species
Dosing data for this drug is not yet available in the VetSheet formulary. Every other section below is complete. Consult the current product label before prescribing.
Overview
Dexpanthenol (also known as d-Panthenol) is an alcohol derivative of pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5).
- Primary Uses: Nutritional supplementation (often included in parenteral vitamin complexes) and topical wound healing.
- Historical Use: Used as a mild gastrointestinal prokinetic to stimulate peristalsis (e.g., for paralytic ileus, post-operative atony, or equine colic), though its clinical efficacy for this indication is highly debated in modern veterinary medicine.
Clinical Pearl: While largely replaced by more effective and targeted prokinetics (such as metoclopramide, cisapride, or lidocaine CRIs) for gastrointestinal stasis, dexpanthenol remains a common ingredient in intravenous fluid vitamin additives and topical dermatological preparations due to its excellent safety profile and role in cellular metabolism.
Mechanism of action
Dexpanthenol acts as a precursor and is rapidly converted to pantothenic acid in vivo.
- Pantothenic acid is a fundamental component of Coenzyme A (CoA).
- CoA facilitates critical acetylation reactions → essential for the synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh).
- Increased ACh availability → enhances parasympathetic tone → stimulates gastrointestinal smooth muscle contraction and peristalsis.
- In topical applications, it promotes epithelialization and granulation tissue formation.
Safety & warnings
Contraindications
- Mechanical gastrointestinal obstruction
- Hemophilia
- Concurrent use with depolarizing muscle relaxants (e.g., succinylcholine)
Adverse effects
- Hypersensitivity reactions (rare)
- Mild gastrointestinal distress (cramping, diarrhea)
- Prolonged bleeding time (very rare)
Precautions
Use with extreme caution or avoid in patients with suspected mechanical bowel obstruction. Wait at least 1 hour after succinylcholine administration before giving dexpanthenol. Intravenous administration should be performed slowly or diluted in IV fluids.
Drug interactions
Dexpanthenol may prolong the muscle relaxant effects of succinylcholine. Administration should be separated by at least 1 hour.
May have additive effects on gastrointestinal motility and parasympathetic tone.
Monitoring
- Clinical signs of gastrointestinal motility (auscultation of bowel sounds)
- Resolution of ileus
- Fecal output
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Well absorbed following intramuscular or oral administration.
Distribution
Widely distributed into body tissues as pantothenic acid.
Metabolism
Rapidly converted to pantothenic acid in tissues.
Elimination
Excreted primarily in the urine as unchanged pantothenic acid.
Overdose
Toxicity is extremely low. Massive overdose may cause mild gastrointestinal distress, cramping, or diarrhea. Treatment is largely supportive and symptomatic.
Available products
Formulations
- Injection (250 mg/mL)
- Topical creams and ointments
- Oral nutritional supplements
Veterinary
- Dexpanthenol injection 250 mg/mL (often in combination with other B-vitamins)
Human-labeled
- Ilopan injection 250 mg/mL
- Various topical creams and ointments (e.g., Bepanthen)
Regulatory status
No regulatory data for: 🇺🇸 US · 🇪🇺 EU · 🇬🇧 UK · 🇭🇰 HK · 🇹🇼 TW · 🇯🇵 JP · 🇰🇷 KR · 🇦🇺 AU
Storage & stability
Store at room temperature (15-30°C); protect from freezing. Protect from light if specified by the manufacturer.
Client information
Dexpanthenol is a form of Vitamin B5.
- Purpose: It is used as a nutritional supplement, to help stimulate gut movement after surgery, or in creams to soothe and heal the skin.
- Safety: It is generally very safe with minimal side effects. Occasionally, it may cause mild diarrhea if given in high doses.
Note: If your pet is prescribed a topical cream containing dexpanthenol, try to prevent them from licking the area until the medication is fully absorbed.
VetSheet drug reference is intended for licensed veterinary professionals as a clinical decision-support aid, not a substitute for professional judgement or the manufacturer’s current label.