BEPANTEN ® - Dexpanthenol

BEPANTEN ® is a drug based on dexpanthenol (D- panthenol)

THERAPEUTIC GROUP: Other vitamin preparations: vitamin B5

IndicationsAction mechanismStudies and clinical effectiveness Usage and dosage instructionsWarnings Pregnancy and lactationInteractionsContraindicationsUndesirable effects

Indications BEPANTEN ® - Dexpantenol

BEPANTEN ® is indicated for the treatment of intestinal atony and related syndromes.

Mechanism of action BEPANTEN ® - Dexpanthenol

Dexpanthenol, is the alcohol obtained from pantothenic acid, otherwise known as pro-vitamin B5.

Pantothenic acid (known as D-panthenol or vitamin B5) is a very important component of coenzyme A, a fundamental molecule in transporting acyl and acetyl groups in the biosynthetic processes of various macromolecules and in particular fatty acids and steroid hormones.

While from a dermatological point of view this vitamin has assumed particular importance as an emollient, moisturizer, anti-inflammatory and inducer of skin fibroblast proliferation in internal medicine is used in the treatment of intestinal atony, thanks to the ability to induce choline acetylation, thus reconstituting an important biochemical mediator, acetylcholine, essential in maintaining the correct peristaltic activity of intestinal smooth muscle.

Studies carried out and clinical efficacy

1. DEXPANTENOL ALLERGIC REACTIONS

Case report demonstrating the risk of developing allergic reactions and in more serious cases anaphylactic shock following the administration of dexpanthenol.

2. DEXPANTHENOL AND TESTICULAR ATROPHY

An interesting study that demonstrates how taking dexpanthenol can protect the testicle from atrophy after torsion, thanks to the ability to regenerate high concentrations of glutathione, an important antioxidant.

3. DEXPANTENOLO IN THE PROTECTION OF INJURIES FROM CAUSTIC SODA

Experimental study conducted on rats demonstrating how the administration of dexpanthenol can significantly reduce stenosis in esophageal lesions induced by ingestion of caustic soda.

Method of use and dosage

BEPANTEN ®

100 mg tablets of dexpanthenol;

500 mg dexpanthenol solution for injection per 2 ml of solution.

The suggested dosage is 2-4 tablets per day or one ampoule per day or several times a week intramuscularly.

In the treatment of post-operative intestinal atony, one proceeds instead with the administration by intramuscular or intravenous use of a vial, possibly to be repeated if necessary.

Both treatments should be conducted under strict medical supervision.

Warnings BEPANTEN ® - Dexpanthenol

The medicine should be kept out of reach of children, and its administration should be avoided in the hour following the possible administration of succinylcholine.

PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING

The absence of clinical trials able to characterize the safety profile of pantothenic acid when taken during pregnancy, refers to the doctor the choice to use BEPANTEN ® in the aforementioned period based on the clinical picture of the patient and the real need.

Interactions

The simultaneous use of oral contraceptives could increase the need for pantothenic acid, while the latter could enhance the lipid-lowering effect of statins.

Contraindications BEPANTEN ® - Dexpanthenol

The use of BEPANTEN ® is contraindicated in case of ileus obstruction mechanism or in case of hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or to one of its excipients.