Dexpanthenol (DB09357): A Comprehensive Monograph on its Pharmacological Profile, Clinical Applications, and Therapeutic Potential

1.0 Abstract

Dexpanthenol, the biologically active alcohol analog of D-pantothenic acid, functions as a provitamin of B5. Its therapeutic utility is fundamentally derived from its role as a metabolic precursor to Coenzyme A (CoA), a pivotal molecule in numerous cellular processes. This monograph provides a comprehensive analysis of Dexpanthenol, consolidating data from chemical, pharmacological, and clinical domains. The molecule's central mechanism involves its intracellular conversion to pantothenic acid, which is subsequently integrated into the structure of CoA. This single biochemical event underpins its dual, seemingly disparate, therapeutic applications. Systemically, administered via injection, Dexpanthenol acts as a cholinergic agent to stimulate gastrointestinal motility, serving as a critical intervention for the prevention and treatment of postoperative paralytic ileus. Topically, it is a ubiquitous ingredient in dermatological and cosmetic formulations, where it functions as a potent humectant, an enhancer of skin barrier function, and a promoter of epithelial regeneration and wound healing. Its efficacy in these areas is supported by its ability to stimulate fibroblast proliferation, accelerate re-epithelialization, and modulate the expression of genes integral to the healing process. The safety profile of Dexpanthenol is exceptionally favorable, with adverse events being rare and typically mild, although a clinically significant drug interaction with succinylcholine is noted for the injectable form. While it has a long history of clinical use, recent research continues to uncover novel applications in areas such as ophthalmology, hair loss, and microbiome-supportive skincare. This report synthesizes the extensive body of knowledge on Dexpanthenol, establishing it as a venerable yet continually evolving therape