Vitamin E

 

Uses

Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin. Fat soluble vitamins are stored in the bodys liver and fat cells. Even fat soluble vitamins have to be replenished but excess amounts can be toxic.

 

It is an antioxidant and important to immune function. It assists in preventing cardiovascular disease, hot flashes, leg cramps. It reduces LDL (Cholesterol) oxidation which may help prevent cardiovascular disease.

Vitamin E is necessary for the maintenance of good health. It has some potential uses such as antioxidant protection against cancer, cardiovascular diseases, menopausal symptoms, and assistance in diabetes, wound healing and immune system.


Symptoms of Deficiency

Nerve damage, muscle weakness, poor coordination, involuntary movement of the eyes and Hemolytic anemia.

 

Causes of Deficiency

Deficiency is rare. It could be due to the following reasons:

  • Fat malabsorption syndromes, such as celiac disease, cystic fibrosis and bowel problems.
  • Premature infants
  • Hemodialysis patients
  • Smoking

 

Natural Sources

Vegetable oil, dark leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans.

 

Dosage
Discuss the dosage and duration of use with the pharmacist before taking the medication. It can be taken with other medications for other conditions on the advice of a pharmacist or a doctor.

 

Recommended daily intake: 10 IU/day

 

Dosage range: 400-800 IU

 

Overdosage

If serious overdosage then contact the poison control center or emergency room. If you miss a dose then take it as soon as remembered, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose, and go back to the regular dosing regimen. If taken an extra dose by mistake then contact the pharmacist or a doctor.

Pregnancy

Tell the pharmacist/doctor if pregnant or planning to become pregnant or if breast feeding.

 

Possible Side Effects

Vitamin E is well tolerated.

 

Interactions

This is not an all inclusive list, discuss it with the pharmacist: 

 

Clofibrate, Cholestyramine, mineral oil, laxative, oral contraceptives, warfarin, Vitamin K.

 

Storage

Store medication in a safe place at room temperature; away from heat, light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or on top of the fridge. Out dated medications must be returned to the pharmacy for safe disposal.

 

Warnings

Tell the pharmacist/doctor your complete medical history.

 

One must inform the pharmacist or doctor if taking any prescription medication, over the counter medication, herbal or alternative medications before starting any new medication, food supplement, herb or vitamin.