Pantethine is the stable (dimer) form of pantetheine, the active form of pantothenic acid, which in turn is the basic component of coenzyme A (CoA). Among other things, the transport and catabolism of fatty acids is dependent on CoA.
Because of this activity, pantethine has been shown in clinical trials to reduce serum cholesterol and triglycerides. Pantethine is also thought to inhibit cholesterol synthesis. Pantethine, the concentration of which is reduced during decreased oxygen supply to the heart, may also be indicated for angina. Pantethine is listed as an antihyperlipoproteinemic in the Merck index.