Brief Communication: Dexpanthenol and Its Ophthalmic Uses

Dexpanthenol in the treatment of corneal disorders and injuries

“…Compared to untreated cells, pantothenate-treated fibroblasts showed a significant upregulation of IL-6, IL-8, Id1, HMOX-1, HspB7 and CYP1B1 expression. Since IL-6 and IL-8 are among the cytokines most strongly expressed during wound healing, the upregulation of IL-6 and IL-8 expression in dermal fibroblasts further supports the fact that topical ointments containing dexpanthenol contribute to the wound healing [3].…”

“…The drug can be used long--term to treat chronic diseases. No serious side effects have been noted with long-term use [3]. Its frequency of use in ophthalmology depends on the type of ocular disease, but there is no limit to it.…”

“…It is a yellow, viscous, hygroscopic oil which is stable in neutral solutions, but decomposes rapidly in acid solution. Its pharmacologically active form is calcium or sodium salt [3].…”

“…Dexpanthenol has hygroscopic properties and ability to retain moisture. Its moisturizing effect seems to be linked to the ability to regenerate the epidermal barrier through increased epithelial differentiation and lipid synthesis [3].…”

“…Various substances are added to the final products to improve the properties of dexpanthenol for topical application on the ocular surface [3,6,14,15]. For instance, dexpanthenol can be combined with polyacrylic acid (Carbopol 980).…”