Vitamin B5 molecule. Computer illustration of part of a molecule of vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid. The wire-frame represents the electrostatic potential across the molecule's surface. The colours represent the atoms over which the surface lies: oxygen (orange) and carbon (blue). Pantothenic acid (formula C9.H17.N.O5) is vital to carbohydrate metabolism and energy production. It is found in abundance in cereals, eggs, liver and nuts. A lack of pantothenic acid can lead to fatigue, muscle cramps and nausea. Around 8 milligrams each day is enough to maintain healthy levels in adults.