Quest Vitamins LTD,
8 Venture Way,
Aston Science Park,
Birmingham,
B7 4AP.

Tel: 0121 359 0056
Fax: 0121 359 0313
Email: info@questvitamins.co.uk
Registered in England No. 2530437

PABA (Para-aminobenzoic Acid)

DESCRIPTION

PABA is often thought of as a member of the B complex but is not a true vitamin. PABA is part of the structure of Folic Acid.

FUNCTIONS

The functions of PABA in humans are as yet not fully understood, but it appears to be involved in the metabolism of Amino Acids and red blood cells.

DEFICIENCY

Deficiency results in Skin conditions, such as loss of pigment, Eczema; or irritability and Depression.

REQUIREMENTS

There is no established RDA. It is recommended that maximum intakes in a supplement are between 30-100mg daily.

SUPPLEMENTAL USES

Apart from its inclusion at low levels in multivitamin supplements, the major accepted use of PABA is as a remedy for Vitiligo (a condition characterised by de-pigmentation of the skin) (1).

PABA has been used in sclerodoma (thickening of the skin) (2,3) and in Lupus erythematosus - another severe skin disorder. However, the dosages used in clinical trials for these conditions were extremely high and should not be self-administered.

PABA is also used topically as a sun screen agent (4), but there is no evidence to say that it works internally for this purpose.

SAFETY

PABA appears quite safe at most dosage levels, but recent studies show 8g or more daily may cause malaise, fever and liver complaints.

INTERACTIONS AND CONTRA-INDICATIONS

Sulfa drugs:
PABA interferes with and neutralises sulfa drugs.

Food Sources - PABA:
Not many figures are produced on the amount of PABA in food. However, liver, eggs, Wheatgerm
and molasses are known to be good sources.

REFERENCES

1. Pozo Carballido JL. A new treatment for Vitiligo: topical Kandil therapy combined with oral PABA. Actas Dermosifiliogr, Nov, 69:11-12, 369-74, 1978.
2. "Inflammation and Diseases of Connective Tissus", L C Mills & J H Moyer, Saunders Co, 1961.
3. Zarafonetis CJ et al. Retrospective studies in scleroderma: effect of Potassium para-aminobenzoate on survival. J Clin Epidemiol, 41:193-205, 1988.
4. "Handbook of Dietary Supplements", Pamela Mason, Blackwell Science, 1995.