Pangamic Acid – Quick Guide to Benefits, Safety, and Use

If you’ve ever seen "vitamin B15" on a supplement label, you’re looking at pangamic acid. It’s not a true vitamin, but a compound that some people claim helps with energy, detox, and even skin health. Below we break down what it actually is, what the science says, and how to use it safely.

What Is Pangamic Acid?

Pangamic acid is a chemical made from glutaric acid and a sugar molecule. It was first described in the 1940s and got the nickname "vitamin B15" because researchers thought the body might need it like other B‑vitamins. In reality, the body can make it on its own, and there’s no official dietary requirement.

Commercial pangamic acid is sold as a powder, capsule, or liquid. Some brands blend it with other ingredients like magnesium or vitamin C, hoping the mix will boost the effects.

Claimed Benefits and What Studies Show

Supporters say pangamic acid can:

• Increase stamina and reduce fatigue
• Help the liver break down toxins
• Improve skin tone and reduce aging signs
• Balance blood sugar levels

Most of these claims come from small, old studies or anecdotal reports. Modern research is limited, and many of the early trials used low‑quality methods. A few animal studies show that pangamic acid can act as an antioxidant, but human data are sparse.

Bottom line: There’s no strong, peer‑reviewed evidence that pangamic acid delivers the big promises. If you feel a boost, it might be a placebo effect or the result of other ingredients in the product.

Safety Profile and Possible Side Effects

Because pangamic acid isn’t an essential nutrient, regulatory agencies don’t set a daily value. In the U.S., the FDA has issued warnings about products that contain unsafe impurities, especially a contaminant called dimethylglyoxime.

Most people tolerate low doses (200‑400 mg per day) without problems. Reported side effects include:

• Mild stomach upset
• Headache
• Skin rash (rare)

If you have liver disease, a thyroid disorder, or are pregnant, talk to a health professional before trying it. Also, avoid mixing pangamic acid with other strong antioxidants unless a doctor says it’s okay.

How to Take It (If You Choose to)

Start with the smallest dose the label recommends—usually 100 mg once a day. If you tolerate it, you can slowly increase to 300‑400 mg spread across two doses. Take it with food to reduce stomach upset.

Keep an eye on how you feel. If you notice persistent headaches, nausea, or any rash, stop using it and seek medical advice.

Bottom Line

Pangamic acid is an interesting compound with a long‑standing hype story, but solid scientific proof is missing. It appears relatively safe at low doses, but quality control can be an issue. If you decide to try it, start low, track your response, and stay aware of the product’s source.

Remember, no supplement replaces a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep. Use pangamic acid—if at all—as a small piece of a broader healthy lifestyle.