dexpanthenol

Pantothenic acid with –CH₂OH replacing the terminal –COOH; a cholinergic agent and a dietary source of pantothenic acid. SYN: panthenol, pantothenyl alcohol.

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dex·pan·the·nol (deks-panґthə-nol) the D(+) form of panthenol (pantothenyl alcohol), the alcoholic analogue of pantothenic acid. It is claimed to be a precursor of coenzyme A, and is administered intravenously or intramuscularly to increase peristalsis in atony and paralysis of the lower intestine and orally to help relieve gas retention and abdominal distention in certain conditions. It is also applied topically to the skin to stimulate healing of various dermatologic lesions such as burns, infected wounds, eczema, diaper rash, etc.