The basic one
PABA capsules
The usual supplement, often in small amounts.
What variations of PABA exist?
A compound gut bacteria use to make folate. It's sometimes called a B vitamin, but people don't need it in the diet, and evidence for supplements is thin. It comes in 3 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.
Medical Disclaimer
For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult
Our top pick
Every form, in plain words
The basic one
PABA capsules
The usual supplement, often in small amounts.
The B-complex extra
PABA in B-complex formulas
A small amount added to some B-vitamin products.
The prescription one
Potassium aminobenzoate (Potaba)
A prescription form used at high doses for certain conditions that cause skin or tissue to thicken. Needs a doctor's monitoring.
Spotting a good one on the shelf
Look for
- Look for 'PABA capsules' on the label (the basic one)
Watch out for
- High-dose products taken without a practitioner's guidance
- Promises that it turns gray hair back
Check with your provider first if…
- You take a sulfa antibiotic (such as sulfamethoxazole). PABA can make it work less well.
- You have liver disease. High amounts have caused liver damage.
- You take methotrexate
- You're allergic to PABA, including from older sunscreens
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.