Vitamin B5 Blood Test

What is the purpose of this test?

The Vitamin B5 Blood Test measures the level of vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) in the blood to help evaluate nutritional status and detect deficiencies. Vitamin B5 is a water-soluble B-vitamin essential for breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy. It also plays a key role in the production of red blood cells and vital hormones related to stress and metabolism. While deficiencies are rare, they can occur in individuals with malabsorption issues, alcohol use disorder, or severe dietary restrictions.

Monitoring Vitamin B5 levels through this blood test can help identify whether someone is getting enough of this essential nutrient. A deficiency in vitamin B5 may lead to symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbances, stomach pain, muscle cramps, or numbness. Detecting a deficiency early enables timely nutritional interventions, including dietary changes or supplementation, which may prevent more serious complications. This test is especially useful for individuals on restricted diets, those managing chronic health conditions, or those experiencing unexplained symptoms that may be related to poor nutrient absorption.

Who should get this test?

The Vitamin B5 Blood Test is helpful for individuals who:

• Follow a highly restricted or low-nutrient diet.
• Have gastrointestinal conditions that affect nutrient absorption (e.g., Crohn’s disease, celiac disease).
• Suffer from alcohol dependency or substance use disorders.
• Experience chronic fatigue, numbness, or muscle cramps with no clear cause.
• Are recovering from surgery, illness, or trauma and need nutritional monitoring.
• Are undergoing long-term parenteral nutrition (IV feeding).
• Want to evaluate their vitamin status as part of a broader wellness checkup.

When should I order the Vitamin B5 Blood Test?

Individuals may consider ordering this test if they have symptoms or concerns related to vitamin B5 deficiency.

Symptoms to consider:

• Tingling or burning sensations in the hands or feet.
• Chronic fatigue or general lack of energy.
• Nausea, stomach discomfort, or poor appetite.
• Irritability, anxiety, or trouble sleeping.
• Muscle cramps or unexplained weakness.
• Frequent headaches or dizziness.
• History of malnutrition or digestive disorders.

If you have these symptoms or suspect poor nutrient absorption, the Vitamin B5 Blood Test can provide important information to guide you and your doctor in improving your health and addressing possible deficiencies.