Pantothenic acid (B5) plays a critical role in surgical stress management through its support of cortisol synthesis via coenzyme A (CoA) production. As a rapidly metabolized vitamin, B5 enhances adrenal function by sustaining CoA-dependent cholesterol conversion into pregnenolone, the precursor to cortisol. This function underpins the body’s HPA axis response, helping regulate inflammation and metabolic needs. Adequate B5 intake may mitigate adrenal fatigue and ensure an efficient response to acute stress, including the surgical stress response and post-surgical recovery.

Mechanisms of Action and Benefits:

• Cortisol Synthesis Support: Produces CoA, facilitating cholesterol conversion into pregnenolone, an early step in cortisol synthesis.
• Adrenal Stress Response: Sustains adrenal function for efficient response to stress by enabling cortisol production.
• HPA Axis Activation: Supports ACTH-induced cortisol production, helping the body meet energy and inflammation management needs.

References

1. Anil  P, Deepak B , Kumar Y et al. . Harnessing the power of nutritional antioxidants against adrenal hormone imbalance-associated oxidative stress. Front. Endocrinol., 29 November 2023. 
2. Terrence Sanvictores; Shaylika Chauhan, National Library of Medicine, NIH, Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid). Feb. 2024
3. Gheita AA, Gheita TA, Kenawy SA. The potential role of B5: A stitch in time and switch in cytokine. Phytotherapy Research. 2020; 34: 306–314.
4. T Miller, B Gibbison, G M Russell, Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal function during health, major surgery, and critical illness, BJA Education, Volume 17, Issue 1, January 2017, Pages 16–21.