Vitamin E (Capsules) Instructions for Use

ATC Code

A11HA03 (Tocopherol (Vitamin E))

Active Substance

Tocopherol (Ph.Eur. European Pharmacopoeia)

Clinical-Pharmacological Group

Vitamin preparation

Pharmacotherapeutic Group

Vitamins; other vitamin preparations

Pharmacological Action

Vitamin E. It has an antioxidant effect, participates in heme and protein biosynthesis, cell proliferation, tissue respiration, and other crucial processes of tissue metabolism, prevents erythrocyte hemolysis, prevents increased permeability and fragility of capillaries; stimulates the synthesis of proteins and collagen.

Pharmacokinetics

When taken orally, absorption is 50-80%; during absorption, it forms a complex with lipoproteins (intracellular carriers of tocopherol). The presence of bile acids is necessary for absorption.

It binds to alpha₁– and beta-lipoproteins, partially to serum albumin. In case of protein metabolism disorders, transport is hindered. C_max is reached after 4 hours. It is metabolized in the liver to derivatives with a quinone structure (some of them possess vitamin activity). It is excreted in breast milk. Accumulation is possible in premature and newborn infants. It is stored in the adrenal glands, pituitary gland, testes, adipose and muscle tissue, erythrocytes, and liver. More than 90% is excreted in the bile, 6% by the kidneys.

Indications

Treatment and prevention of hypovitaminosis. Conditions of convalescence after diseases accompanied by febrile syndrome, high physical exertion, old age, diseases of the ligamentous apparatus and muscles.

Climacteric autonomic disorders. Neurasthenia due to overwork, asthenic neurasthenic syndrome, primary muscular dystrophy, post-traumatic, post-infectious secondary myopathy. Degenerative and proliferative changes in the joints and ligamentous apparatus of the spine and large joints.

ICD codes

Dosage Regimen

Take capsules orally, with water. Swallow whole; do not chew or crush.

For adult patients, the typical daily dose is 100-400 mg. Adjust the exact dose based on the specific clinical indication and patient condition.

For pediatric patients, use only age-appropriate formulations and doses. Determine the dose strictly based on the child’s age and body weight.

Administer the daily dose once or divide it into two or three smaller doses. Take with meals to enhance absorption, which requires the presence of dietary fats and bile.

The standard treatment course lasts from 2 to 8 weeks. The duration depends on the therapeutic response and the condition being treated.

For long-term use or repeated courses, periodically monitor blood clotting parameters and cholesterol levels.

Do not exceed the recommended daily dose without explicit medical supervision. High doses can induce vitamin A deficiency and increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants.

Adverse Reactions

Allergic reactions: itching, skin hyperemia are possible.

From the digestive system: diarrhea, nausea, gastralgia, dyspepsia are possible.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to tocopherol; severe atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries, myocardial infarction, increased risk of thromboembolism; childhood – depending on the dosage form used.

With caution

Hypoprothrombinemia (against the background of vitamin K deficiency – may be enhanced at a vitamin E dose of more than 400 IU).

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

The use of tocopherol during pregnancy and lactation (breastfeeding) is possible only as prescribed by a doctor.

Special Precautions

Prescribing vitamin E in high doses can cause vitamin A deficiency in the body.

With long-term use of tocopherol and/or the need for repeated courses of therapy, it is recommended to periodically monitor blood clotting parameters and blood cholesterol levels.

When taken simultaneously with other vitamin-mineral preparations containing fat-soluble vitamins A, D, and E, a doctor should be consulted.

Drug Interactions

With simultaneous use, vitamin E enhances the effect of glucocorticosteroids, NSAIDs, and cardiac glycosides.

Simultaneous use of vitamin E in a dose of more than 400 mg/day with anticoagulants (coumarin and indandione derivatives) increases the risk of hypoprothrombinemia and bleeding.

With simultaneous use, cholestyramine, colestipol, and mineral oils reduce the absorption of alpha-tocopherol acetate.

With simultaneous use of vitamin E with cyclosporine, the absorption of the latter increases.

Storage Conditions

Store at 2°C (36°F) to 25°C (77°F). Keep in original packaging, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Dispensing Status

Over-the-Counter

Important Safety Information

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before use. Dosage and side effects may vary. Use only as prescribed.