Indications
Tocopherol is vitamin E, a fat-soluble vitamin found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables. As a supplement it is used to prevent and treat vitamin E deficiency, which can occur in people who cannot absorb fat properly (for example with long-term liver or pancreas disease or cystic fibrosis) and in some premature babies. It is also widely used as an antioxidant supplement for skin and hair health, and is included in many skin creams and oils.
How It Works
Vitamin E is the body’s main fat-soluble antioxidant. It sits in cell membranes and protects them from damage by free radicals (unstable molecules produced during normal metabolism and by pollution and sunlight). It helps keep nerves, muscles, the eyes and the immune system working normally.
Dosage and Administration
Adults need about 15 mg of vitamin E a day, which a balanced diet usually provides. Supplements commonly contain 200 IU or 400 IU and are taken once daily with a meal. Treatment of deficiency, and doses for children, should be as prescribed. Do not take more than 1,000 mg a day (about 1,500 IU of natural vitamin E) unless a doctor advises it. Skin products are applied as directed on the label.
Interactions
High doses may increase the risk of bleeding with Warfarin and with antiplatelet medicines such as Aspirin and Clopidogrel. Orlistat, Colestyramine and mineral oil can reduce its absorption. Large doses may lessen the effect of some cancer chemotherapy and radiotherapy, so tell your cancer doctor if you take it.
Contraindications
Do not use it if you are allergic to any ingredient. Avoid high doses if you have a bleeding disorder or vitamin K deficiency.
Side Effects
Usual doses are well tolerated. High doses may cause nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhoea, tiredness, weakness, headache and blurred vision. Skin products can sometimes cause a rash or contact allergy.
Get urgent medical help if you notice unusual bleeding or bruising, black stools, a sudden severe headache, weakness on one side of the body, or swelling of the face, lips or throat or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Normal dietary amounts, and the vitamin E in standard pregnancy vitamins, are safe. Do not take high-dose vitamin E during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless a doctor prescribes it.
Precautions and Warnings
Long-term high-dose vitamin E has been linked with a higher risk of bleeding-type stroke in some studies, so only take high doses if there is a medical reason. Stop high-dose supplements about two weeks before surgery. People with vitamin K deficiency or on blood thinners should ask a doctor first.
Overdose
Very large amounts may cause stomach upset, tiredness and bleeding problems. Seek medical advice if a large amount has been taken or a child has swallowed capsules.
Therapeutic Class
Vitamin (fat-soluble vitamin E, antioxidant).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.