What is vitamin E?
Vitamin E is found in foods such as vegetable oils and shortening, meat, eggs, milk, and
leafy vegetables. Vitamin E is important for many processes in the body.
Vitamin E is used to treat vitamin E deficiency.
Vitamin E may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking vitamin E?
Before taking vitamin E, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional if you
have any other medical conditions, allergies, or if you take other medicines or other herbal/health
supplements.
Before taking vitamin E, tell your doctor if you are taking warfarin (Coumadin). You may
not be able to take vitamin E, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring
during treatment.
Do not take a vitamin E supplement without first talking to your doctor if you are
pregnant.
Do not take a vitamin E supplement without first talking to your doctor if you are
breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take vitamin E?
Take vitamin E exactly as directed by your doctor or as directed on the package. If you do
not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take the pills with a full glass of water.
Swallow the capsules whole, do not crush, chew, or open them.
Measure the liquid form of vitamin E with the dropper provided.
Do not take more vitamin E than is prescribed for you or than is directed on the
package. Too much vitamin E can be dangerous.
Store vitamin E at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose of vitamin E?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your
next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a
double dose.
Where can I get more information about vitamin E?
Your pharmacist has information about vitamin E written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of vitamin E?
Stop taking vitamin E and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an
allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or
face; or hives).
Other less serious side effects may occur, especially with large doses or prolonged use.
Talk to your doctor if you experience
-
fatigue,
-
weakness,
-
headache,
-
nausea,
-
blurred vision, or
-
flatulence or diarrhea.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What is the most important information I should know about vitamin E?
Do not take more vitamin E than is prescribed for you or than is directed on the
package. Too much vitamin E can be dangerous.
What should I avoid while taking vitamin E?
There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while you are taking vitamin E
unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
What other drugs will affect vitamin E?
Before taking vitamin E, tell your doctor if you are taking warfarin (Coumadin). You may
not be able to take vitamin E, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring
during treatment.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with vitamin E. Talk to your doctor
and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines or herbal/health
supplements.
What happens if I have an overdose of vitamin E?