Generic
Vitamin E (Alpha-tocopherol)
58 brands available in the market
At a glance
Vitamin E is indicated for the treatment and prevention of vitamin E deficiency. Vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol) is also suggested to use as an antioxidant to promote, prevent and treat various health conditions.
Description
Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant in the body. Vitamin E protects polyunsaturated fatty acids (which are components of cellular membrane) and other oxygen-sensitive substances such as vitamin A & vitamin C from oxidation.
Indications
- Cardiovascular disease
- Male infertility
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Vitamin E deficiency
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Macular Degeneration
Therapeutic class
Herbal and Nutraceuticals, Vitamin-E Preparations
Pharmacological class
Vitamin E
Pharmacology
Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant in the body. Vitamin E protects polyunsaturated fatty acids and other oxygen-sensitive substances such as vitamin A & vitamin C from oxidation.
Mechanism of action
Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, protecting cell membranes and other oxygen-sensitive substances from oxidation.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Betterment of Cardiovascular health: 400-800 mg/day
- Deficiency syndrome in adults: 200-400 mg/day
- Thalassemia: 800 mg/day
- Sickle-cell anemia: 400 mg/day
- Betterment of Skin & Hair: 200-400 mg/day
- Chronic cold in adults: 200 mg/day
Child Dose (Oral):
- Deficiency syndrome in children: 200 mg/day
Administration
- Take as directed by a physician
- Swallow tablets/capsules whole
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; if almost time for next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Flatulence
- Diarrhea
- Blurred vision
- Necrotizing enterocolitis (infants)
- Increased serum creatinine
- Increased risk of hemorrhagic stroke
Precautions & warnings
- Vitamin E may enhance the anticoagulant activity of anticoagulant drugs
- May increase bleeding tendency in vitamin K deficient patients or those taking anticoagulant treatments
Contraindications
- There is no absolute contraindication except known hypersensitivity to vitamin E
Drug interactions
- Colestyramine, colestipol, and orlistat may interfere with vitamin E absorption
- High doses of vitamin E potentiates the anticoagulant action of warfarin
- Large doses of vitamin E may impair response to iron supplementation
Food interactions
Food interactions are not significant.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Category A; no evidence of the safety of high doses of vitamin E in pregnancy, therefore should not use in pregnancy especially in the first trimester.
Pregnancy Category: A — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: No information is available on excretion in breast milk, therefore it is advisable not to use during lactation.
Pediatric use
Pediatric dosage regimen established
Geriatric use
Safe for elderly
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Limited information
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information
Overdose effects
Symptoms: Transient gastrointestinal disturbances (with doses greater than 1000 IU daily).
Treatment: Supportive care.
Storage conditions
Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.