Provachol, vitamin E and Folic Acid

Posted By  CCF Cardio MD - sk on September 20, 1997 at 15:25:37:

In Reply to: Provachol, vitamin E and Folic Acid posted by Harvey Tucker on September 19, 1997 at 08:01:59:

: My cardiologist says that studies have shown that both Folic Acid and vitamin E are helpful in the treatment of CAD. Is there any guideline for theraputic doses of these vitamins in the treatment of CAD? I would like to ask the same question for Provachol.
  Thanks.

[CCF CARDIO MD SK]

Dear Mr. Tucker,
Your doctor is right that some studies have shown that vitamin E and folic acid may help in prevention of acute events in patients with coronary artery disease. But this issue is not well settled. There are many studies questioning the issue too. So, currently there are no recommended doses for Vitamin E and Folic acid in the prevention of coronary artery disease as their role is controversial. 400 IU a day of vitamin E and 1-2 mg/d of folic acid have been used in some clinical trials.
For pravastatin (pravachol) in coronary artery disease, the data are very strong and 20-40 mg a day of this medication is generally used. The response to the medication is important in guiding the dosage. Hope this answers your question.  
If you are seeking a second opinion or further evaluation, an appointment with one of our cardiologists specializing prevention of coronary artery disease can be arranged by calling the Cleveland Clinic at [phone].
Information provided in the Heart Forum is intended for general medical informational purposes only. Actual diagnosis and treatment of any particular medical condition can only be made by your family physician(s).