The first study of vitamin E was carried out in the early 19th century on rats by the Shute brothers. This experiment showed that rats raised exclusively on whole were normally developed but could not reproduce. Scientists have proven that the missing factor is found in green leaves and wheat germ. This is how fat-soluble vitamin E was discovered.
Vitamin E (tocopherol) is a fat-soluble vitamin that is an important antioxidant. In nature, it exists in eight different forms (isomers), differing in biological activity and functions performed in the body. As an antioxidant, it protects the body from the harmful effects of toxins, for example. Its lack can be one of the reasons for lethargy and anemia.
As food additive denoted as, and.
Physical and chemical properties of vitamin E
Tocopherol is a clear oily liquid of light yellow color, insoluble in, well soluble in chloroform, sulfuric ether, petroleum ether, and weaker in acetone.
Pharmacological properties: participates in the biosynthesis of heme and proteins, cell proliferation, tissue respiration and other metabolic processes in cells.
Oxygen, ultraviolet rays, low temperatures, mineral oil destroy vitamin E.
For more information on vitamin E, see the video clip “Organic Chemistry. Vitamin E "
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General characteristics, forms and name of vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble compound with strong antioxidant properties. The traditional name is also used to denote vitamin E - tocopherol... In addition, due to its ability to maintain youth for a long time and the beneficial effect on conception and gestation, tocopherol is also called the "vitamin of youth and beauty" and "vitamin of fertility".Vitamin E is a mixture of eight bioorganic structures that have the same properties and are its varieties. These types of vitamin E are called vitamers and are divided into two large classes - tocopherols and tocotrienols. Four vitamers E each belong to tocopherols and tocotrienols. In principle, all eight vitamers have practically the same activity, therefore, they are not separated in the instructions for use and various descriptions. Therefore, when they talk about vitamin E, they use the name common to all vitamers - tocopherol.
But the first of the vitamers E was obtained and identified alpha-tocopherol, which is most often found in nature and is the most active. At present, the activity of alpha-tocopherol is taken as a standard, and it is with it that the activities of all other vitamers E are compared. Therefore, in some very detailed descriptions of any drug with vitamin E, one can see that its content corresponds to N units equivalent to the activity of 1 mg of alpha -tocopherol. But at present, the amount of vitamin E is usually expressed in international units (IU) or milligrams, with 1 IU = 1 mg.
Alpha-, beta- and gamma-tocopherols have the most pronounced vitamin activity. And delta-tocopherol has the most potent antioxidant properties. Manufacturers of various medicinal products, depending on their purpose, introduce the necessary type of vitamin E into the composition in order to ensure the most pronounced biological effect.
Since tocopherol dissolves in fats, it is able to accumulate in the human body in almost all organs and tissues. This happens when the body enters a large number of vitamin E, it does not have time to be excreted, penetrates into all organs and tissues, where it dissolves in membrane fats, forming a depot. The greatest amount of vitamin E is able to accumulate in the liver, testes, pituitary gland, adipose tissue, erythrocytes and muscles.
Due to this ability to accumulate, vitamin E can be in the body in high concentrations, much higher than normal, which leads to disruptions in the functioning of various organs and systems. An excess amount of vitamin E in the body is called hypervitaminosis and, just like hypovitaminosis, is accompanied by clinical manifestations arising from the disruption of the functioning of many organs and systems.
Insufficient intake of vitamin E into the body leads to its deficiency or hypovitaminosis, which is accompanied by disruption of the functioning of organs with characteristic clinical symptoms.
That is, in relation to vitamin E in the human body, both its excess and deficiency can be created, and both conditions cause disturbances in the normal functioning of various organs. This means that vitamin E should be consumed only in the required amount, avoiding excessive or insufficient intake of the body.
Absorption and excretion of vitamin E
Vitamin E enters the human body with food and is absorbed from the intestines in the presence of fats and bile. This means that for normal absorption of the vitamin from the digestive tract, it must be combined with a small amount of vegetable or animal fat. Approximately 50% of the total amount of vitamin E contained in the food bolus is absorbed from the intestines, provided that there is a normal amount of fat and bile. If there is little fat or bile in the intestine, then less than 50% of the incoming vitamin E is absorbed.
In the process of absorption from the intestine, vitamin E forms a complex with fatty acids (chylomicrons), in which it first penetrates the lymph and then into the blood. In the blood, vitamin E is released from the complex with chylomicrons and binds to proteins. It is in such a complex of protein + vitamin E that it is carried by the blood stream to all organs and tissues.
In tissues, vitamin E releases from the bond with protein, and in combination with vitamin A participates in the synthesis of ubiquinone Q - a substance that carries oxygen from red blood cells directly into the cell.
Vitamin E is excreted from the body both unchanged and in the form of metabolites. Moreover, most of the vitamin E - 90% is excreted in the feces through the intestines, and only 10% - in the urine through the kidneys.
The biological role of vitamin E
Vitamin E is a unique substance that has the ability to rejuvenate the body, slowing down the aging process. That is why it is called the vitamin of youth and beauty. The effect of slowing down aging is achieved due to the powerful activation of tissue respiration processes, during which cells are well supplied with oxygen and decay products are removed from them.Also, vitamin E reduces blood clotting, preventing excessive thrombus formation, and therefore, improving microcirculation and preventing blood stagnation in various organs and tissues. A decrease in the clotting activity of blood leads to the fact that it flows better through the vessels without clogging them. In addition, vitamin E makes the walls of blood vessels smooth, as a result of which cholesterol plaques are not deposited on them, due to which atherosclerosis is prevented. Improving the properties of blood and the state of blood vessels, as well as the prevention of atherosclerosis, in aggregate, ensure the prevention of cardiovascular failure with regular use of vitamin E.
Vitamin E improves the functioning of the immune system, thereby preventing infectious and inflammatory diseases of any organs. In combination with vitamin A, it protects the lungs from the negative effects of polluted air. Vitamin E also improves muscle tone and performance, relieves cramps and accelerates the healing of various wounds and burns. With the use of vitamin E, wounds heal with fewer or no scars.
Separately, it must be said that vitamin E improves sexual function in men and women, having a beneficial effect on the production of hormones and the state of the reproductive organs. For example, in women, tocopherol improves the blood supply to the uterus and ovaries, and also promotes the production of the required amount of progesterone and the formation of the placenta during pregnancy. In women, vitamin E eases the course of premenstrual and climacteric syndrome, and also contributes to the complete cure of fibrous formations of the mammary gland. In men, vitamin E improves sperm quality by normalizing the functioning of the gonads. In addition, tocopherol significantly improves potency.
For all people, regardless of gender, vitamin E reduces blood pressure, expands and strengthens the walls of blood vessels, prevents cataracts and anemia, and also maintains the normal functioning of the nervous system.
As an antioxidant, vitamin E has the following biological effects on the human body:
- Actively binds to free radicals, deactivating them;
- Protects cells from free radical damage;
- Slows down the already running processes of free radical oxidation of lipids and DNA of cells;
- Reduces the rate of formation of new free radicals;
- Protects other vitamins from the negative effects of free radicals;
- Improves the absorption of vitamin A;
- Prevents the appearance of senile pigmentation on the skin in the form of brown spots;
- Destroys and prevents the appearance of cancer cells, thereby reducing the risk of malignant neoplasms of various organs;
- By protecting cells from free radical damage, it reduces the rate of aging;
- Improves the formation of collagen and elastin, which are necessary to maintain the properties of connective tissue;
- Eases the course of diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.
Vitamin E intake
Usually, the amount of vitamin E is indicated in international units (IU) or milligrams (mg). However, manufacturers sometimes quote outdated units for measuring the amount of vitamin E called tocopherol equivalents (ETs). Moreover, 1 mg = 1 IU, and 1 ET is approximately equal to 1 IU, therefore all three units of measurement of the amount of vitamin E can be considered equivalent.The daily requirement of an adult and a child over two years of age for vitamin E is 8 - 12 IU, and in men, all other things being equal, it is higher than in women. In children of the first year of life, the need for vitamin E is 3 - 5 mg.
The need for tocopherol increases in the following situations:
1.
Active muscular work, for example, when playing sports, physical work, etc.
2.
Eating a lot of vegetable oil.
3.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding increase the need for vitamin E by at least 2 - 5 IU.
4.
The recovery period after infectious and inflammatory diseases.
5.
Healing period of various wounds.
According to the norms of dietary nutrition, it is considered optimal to consume 15 mg of vitamin E per day by adults and children over three years old. Safe from the point of view of the development of hypervitaminosis is the consumption of a maximum of 100 mg of vitamin E per day. This means that you can consume up to 100 IU of tocopherol per day without fear of developing hypervitaminosis.
However, clinical studies conducted in recent years indicate that the more correct and, at the same time, safe dosages of vitamin E are 100-400 IU for adults and 50-100 IU for children. It is these dosages of vitamin E that provide not only the physiological needs of the body, but also effectively resist the aging process. For some diseases, as part of complex therapy, vitamin E can be taken in dosages of 1200 - 3000 IU.
In the blood serum, the normal concentration of vitamin E is 21 - 22 μmol / ml.
Symptoms of Deficiency and Lack of Vitamin E in the Body
With insufficient intake of vitamin E in the human body, its deficiency develops, called hypovitaminosis. Hypovitaminosis leads to disruption of the functioning of various organs and systems, which is manifested by the following symptoms: - Violation of tissue respiration;
- Muscle weakness;
- Deterioration of potency in men;
- High risk of miscarriage, pregnancy fading or spontaneous abortion in women;
- Early toxicosis of pregnancy;
- Anemia due to hemolysis (destruction) of red blood cells;
- Decreased reflexes (hyporeflexia);
- Ataxia (impaired coordination of movements);
- Dysarthria (violation of the articulation of speech with the impossibility of normal pronunciation of words and sounds);
- Reduced sensitivity;
- Retinal dystrophy;
- Hepatonecrosis (death of liver cells);
- Nephrotic syndrome;
- Increased activity of creatine phosphokinase and alanine aminotransferase in the blood.
Hypervitaminosis can develop in two cases - firstly, with prolonged use of high doses of vitamin A, and secondly, with a single intake of a very large amount of tocopherol. However, in practice, hypervitaminosis E is very rare, since this vitamin it is not toxic, and its excess is used by the body as an antioxidant. Thus, almost the entire volume of vitamin E entering the body can be effectively used without remaining free and without damaging various organs and tissues.
Clinical studies have shown that even the daily intake of vitamin E at 200 - 3000 IU per day for 10 years did not lead to the development of hypervitaminosis. A single dose of vitamin E in a high dosage can provoke nausea, flatulence, diarrhea, or increased blood pressure, which go away on their own and do not require any special treatment or discontinuation of the drug.
In principle, hypervitaminosis E can provoke the development of the following symptoms:
- A decrease in the total number of platelets in the blood (thrombocytopenia), leading to bleeding;
- Decrease in blood clotting ability (hypocoagulation), provoking bleeding;
- Night blindness;
- Dyspeptic symptoms (heartburn, belching, nausea, flatulence, heaviness in the abdomen after eating, etc.);
- Decreased glucose concentration (hypoglycemia);
- General weakness;
- Muscle cramps;
- Deterioration of potency in men;
- Increased blood pressure;
- Enlarged liver (hepatomegaly);
- An increase in the concentration of bilirubin in the blood (hyperbilirubinemia);
- Hemorrhage in the retina or brain;
- An increase in the concentration of triglycerides (TG) in the blood.
With intravenous administration of vitamin E, swelling, redness and calcification of soft tissues may appear at the injection site.
Vitamin E - content in foods
The following foods contain the maximum amount of vitamin E:
- Soybean, cottonseed, corn, sunflower and olive oils;
- Sprouted grains of corn and wheat;
- Corn kernels;
- Pearl barley, oat and corn;
- Shrimps;
- Squid;
- Egg;
- Zander;
- Mackerel.
Foods that contain a fairly large amount of vitamin E, but not the maximum, are as follows:
- Citrus fruits (oranges, tangerines, clementines, mignols, pomelo, grapefruit, lemons, limes, etc.);
- Liver of animals and fish;
- Acne;
- Sunflower seeds ;
- Hazelnut;
- Dried apricots;
Vitamin E preparations
Currently, there are two main types of preparations containing vitamin E on the domestic pharmaceutical market. The first type is pharmaceutical preparations containing a synthetic analogue of vitamin E, which has exactly the same structure as the natural molecule of tocopherol. The second type is biologically active additives (BAA) containing natural vitamin E, obtained from extracts, extracts or tinctures of plant or animal raw materials. That is, there are pharmaceutical synthetic vitamin preparations and natural dietary supplements.In addition, there are mono-component and multicomponent preparations containing vitamin E. The mono-component contains only vitamin E in various dosages, and the multicomponent contains several vitamins, minerals, trace elements or other useful substances.
The dosage of vitamin E can be different, however, in dietary supplements and in pharmacological preparations, it is standardized and indicated in IU or mg. Due to the relatively low dosage, dietary supplements can be used only for prophylactic intake as an additional source of vitamin E. And pharmacological preparations are used both for prophylaxis and for treatment.
Synthetic vitamins E
Currently, the following vitamin preparations containing tocopherol are available on the domestic pharmaceutical market:- Aevit;
- The alphabet "Our baby";
- Alphabet "Kindergarten";
- Alpha-tocopherol acetate solution in oil;
- Biovital Vitamin E;
- Biovital-gel;
- Vitamin E 100;
- Vitamin E 200;
- Vitamin E 400;
- Vitamin E 50% type SD powdered;
- Vitamin E-acetate;
- Vitamin E Zentiva;
- Vita bears;
Content
Vitamin E, one of the most important elements for the human body, performs many functions and, above all, protects the cell wall from chemical and mechanical destruction. To prevent deficiency useful vitamin in the body, you should drink it additionally, following the instructions of the instructions. Before giving drugs containing this element, you need to consult with your doctor to understand what vitamin E is for.
What is Vitamin E
Tocopherol is a fat-soluble organic substance from the vitamin class. The term "tocopherol" of Greek origin means "to bring life". It is a combination of four esters - tocopherols and four tocotrienols. This compound includes 7 vitamins, which differ from each other in the activity of biological effects on animal cells. Among them, the most active form is.
Vitamin E is a persistent compound that retains its integrity at high processing temperatures, dehydration, and conservation with salt. At the same time, it is highly sensitive to ultraviolet radiation, therefore, products containing this substance should be stored in a dark container made of thick glass or in a dark place.
Discovery history
Vitamin E was discovered in 1922 by Herbert Evans and Catherine Scott Bishop. The experiments they carried out showed that rats, which ate exclusively on animal products, after some time lost their ability to reproduce. The reproductive system was restored after the introduction of lettuce leaves and vegetable oil into the diet. From this, scientists concluded that a certain factor "X" contained in plant foods is a very important component of food.
Biological role
Vitamin E is a unique protective agent against oxidative damage. It occupies a certain position in the cell membrane, thereby preventing the contact of oxygen with unsaturated fatty acids, and forms hydrophobic complexes that protect cell membranes from destruction. In addition, it has strong antioxidant properties due to the presence of free radicals in its composition.
Daily requirement
Since Vitamin E is a vital compound, there is an established daily requirement based on gender, age and general health. The daily dose of vitamin E is as follows:
- women: 20-30mg;
- men: 25-35mg;
- Infants under 6 months: 1 mg to 3 mg;
- children 6 months to 3 years: 5-8 mg;
- for children aged 3 to 12 years: 8-10 mg;
- children from 12 to 18 years old: 10-17 mg.
Vitamin E is found in large quantities in foods vegetable origin... The vitamin content in foods depends, first of all, on the climate in which this or that plant is grown. The largest amount of tocopherol is found in wheat germ oil (400 mg) and nuts. The approximate content of tocopherol in some foods:
Products | |
Wheat germ oil | |
Soybean oil | |
Cottonseed oil | |
Margarine | |
Walnuts |
What is learned with
E vitamins belong to the group of fat-soluble substances. This means that tocopherol molecules can be incorporated into the membrane of animal cells only in combination with lipids of animal or plant origin. For normal absorption with foods containing tocopherol, you must eat fatty foods. Vegetable fats reduce the need for the concentration of synthetic analogs, active additives for additional intake with a deficiency of tocopherol and fat-soluble antioxidants.
Symptoms of Deficiency and Lack of Vitamin E in the Body
The first sign of vitamin deficiency and inadequacy is muscle weakness, dizziness, drowsiness. Children who suffer from tocopherol deficiency from infancy are lagging behind in physical and mental development. In addition, in children under one year old, a lack of tocopherol can cause rickets, dermatitis, psoriasis, and muscle tissue dystrophy. Premature babies suffer from retinopathy.
With insufficient use of this substance, hemolysis of erythrocytes occurs (destruction of red blood cells), persistent hemolytic anemia develops. Tocopherol hypovitaminosis contributes to the destruction of fibers of the peripheral nervous system, which leads to impaired motor function and a decrease in pain sensitivity of the skin. Lack of use in women can cause impairment menstrual cycle, increasing the risk of early miscarriage.
Vitamin E helps the intestinal absorption of retinol and, if it is insufficient, leads to a deficiency (hypovitaminosis) of vitamin A, which is manifested by dry skin, decreased visual acuity, hair loss, and a decrease in the resistance of the immune system. Lack of assimilation of fats can also lead to hypovitaminosis of vitamins A and E. In old age, daily hypovitaminosis of tocopherol provokes the development and accelerates aging of the body. Lack of tocopherol is due to the progression of atherosclerosis.
Why vitamin E is useful
During clinical studies and experiments, it turned out that Vitamin E plays an important role in the functioning of the human body. Main beneficial properties:
- is an active antioxidant;
- universal protector of cell membranes from oxidative damage;
- improves cell nutrition;
- strengthens the walls of blood vessels;
- contributes to the preservation of sexual functions;
- improves the condition of hair and skin, nails;
- slows down the spread of cancer;
- doctors prescribe to treat diabetes;
- promotes the absorption of retinol and other fat-soluble vitamins;
- lowers blood pressure in heart disease.
For women
Vitamin E is of particular importance for women. It reduces the rate of development of pigmentation on the skin, allows the female body to maintain youth. Vitamin E capsules are prescribed for the treatment of infertility and during menopause. With severe stress, decreased immunity, dysfunction of the ovaries, Vitamin E helps to restore the normal menstrual cycle. Many cosmetic companies add derivatives of this element to their creams for better nutrition and moisturizing overdried skin.
During pregnancy
Women during pregnancy are not recommended to take Vitamin E without a doctor's prescription. Vitamin E in oil can provoke placental abruption in the second trimester and thrombosis of the umbilical cord vessels on later dates... There are cases when the use of large doses caused severe bleeding in girls. Doctors attribute this effect to the presence of a specific protein in women during pregnancy.
For newborns
Vitamin E for children is used for the normal development of muscular and skeletal systems, ligaments. The connection promotes mental development, the preservation of reflexes. In newborns with insufficiently developed body functions, the vitamin accelerates the differentiation of tissues, promotes a rapid gain in fat mass, and promotes the maturation of the respiratory system, especially lung tissues.
For men
With a deficiency of tocopherol, toxins accumulate in the cells, which have a negative effect on the quality of the seed (sperm). The shortage is due to the development of secondary male infertility, early impotence. In case of insufficient Vitamin E in the diet, toxic substances and dead cells reduce the absorption of other microelements in the intestine.
Vitamin E preparations
Name | Brief characteristics of the drug | Cost in a pharmacy, rubles |
capsules in a jelly shell, contains retinol and tocopherol in equal proportions. Inside 1-2 r / day before meals | 120 (for 30 capsules) |
|
oral capsules containing dissolved vitamin E | from 132 (for 30 capsules of 100 mg) |
|
oval multivitamin tablets or yellow capsules, prescribed for the prevention of varicose veins | 460 (for 30 tablets) |
|
Doppelherz Active Vitamin E Forte | solution, used for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, administered orally 1 capsule / day before meals | 238 (for 30 capsules) |
Indications for the use of vitamin E
Vitamin E is used for hypovitaminosis, rehabilitation therapy after diseases, asthenic syndrome, neurasthenia, degenerative changes in the tissues of the joints, inflammatory diseases of the ligaments and muscles, impaired absorption of retinol. Tocopherol is indicated for use in low birth weight premature infants in protein diets to restore muscle mass. Prescribe such pharmacological agents for disorders of calcium and phosphorus metabolism, in addition, they contribute to the absorption of magnesium.
Instructions for the use of vitamin E
In case of insufficient consumption with food or with a small amount of plant food, preparations containing natural tocopherol or a vitamin synthesized by artificial means are prescribed. How to take vitamin E, your doctor will tell you in detail. The use of synthetic medicines without a doctor's prescription can provoke symptoms of hypervitaminosis. When taking medications, the dosage must be observed.
Vitamin oil
Among natural products containing Vitamin E give off oils. They are added to the general diet, as salad dressings, porridge additives or other dishes. It is not recommended to subject oils fortified with vitamins to heat treatment (bake or fry) - this leads to the destruction of bonds between molecules and a decrease in useful properties product. Oils increase the need for carbohydrates and proteins.
In capsules
Vitamin E capsules are widely used to treat not only vitamin deficiency, but also with a shortage of other fat-soluble drugs. Pharmacological preparations made in the form of capsules, as a rule, contain several groups of fat-soluble vitamins at a time for intensive support of the body during exacerbations of chronic diseases and vitamin deficiencies.
In drops
Medicines in drops are used to treat vitamin deficiency in children. Drops containing tocopherol contain less active ingredient, which helps to avoid vitamin overdose. For adults, doctors prescribe drops when the insufficient content is not acute and the drug is taken prophylactically.
Intramuscularly
The use of injections for the administration of preparations containing tocopherol, as a rule, is carried out only in hospital treatment. This is due to the increased concentration of vitamin in drugs that are used for acute vitamin deficiency, for example, in newborns or premature babies, vitamin deficiency due to severe exhaustion. Not recommended for independent use due to the high risk of soft tissue infection during an injection.
In addition, an individual intolerance to tocopherol and allergic reactions of the primary and secondary type may be a contraindication to use. Allergies can occur both after the first use, and some time after the substance has entered the body. It can be expressed by anaphylactic shock, rash, itching, chronic conjunctivitis. The vitamin should be taken with caution by people suffering from alcohol and drug addiction.
Vitamin E side effects
Among the side effects of long-term intake of tocopherol, when an excess of vitamin accumulates in the body, there are two types: those that are directly related to the intake of the vitamin and those that are caused by additional compounds contained in preparations containing tocopherol (retinol, vegetable oil, molecules gland).
With hypervitaminosis of tocopherol: itching, rash, dizziness, weakness. Side effects of the second group include: nausea, vomiting, bleeding gums, impaired reproductive function (fertility) in women, jaundice of non-viral etiology.
Video
Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials of the article do not call for self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can diagnose and give recommendations for treatment based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.
Found a mistake in the text? Select it, press Ctrl + Enter and we'll fix it!Vitamin E (tocopherol) is a naturally occurring fat-soluble antioxidant that protects our cells from destruction. Taking this vitamin is one of the ways to maintain youth and restore reproductive abilities. Vitamin E is produced in capsules, pills and tablets for oral administration in different dosages. In our country, it is produced by many pharmaceutical companies, there are also imported drugs. A large selection of dietary supplements with tocopherols on the website of the Ayherb online store.
Release form and composition
The drug is produced in the form of oral dosage forms - capsules and pills. An oil solution of 50 ml is also available in a bottle (about 30 drops in 1 ml). The preparation contains an active ingredient and auxiliary agents.
The active substance is tocopherol. Natural tocopherols are a mixture of eight isomers: alpha, beta, gamma and delta tocopherols and the same isomers of tocotrienols. The most common are alpha-tocopherols. The inscription on the bottle with a natural substance looks like this: d-alpha-tocopherol. Particle d indicates the natural origin of tocopherol.
A synthetic drug (tocopherol acetate) is made on the basis of alpha-tocopherol. The label on the bottle looks like this: dl-alpha-tocopherol. The particle dl speaks about the synthetic nature of the vitamin.
The amount of active ingredient in one dose is expressed in milligrams (mg) or in international units - IU:
- 100 mg is 110 IU of a synthetic or 150 IU of a natural compound;
- 1 IU of a natural substance is equal to 0.67 mg, 1 IU of a synthetic substance is 1 mg.
Pharmacological properties
The pharmacological properties of vitamin E include the mechanism of its action (pharmacodynamics) and the mechanism of penetration of this substance into the body, its absorption, promotion and excretion (pharmacokinetics).
Pharmacodynamics (mechanism of action)
Until a few decades ago, vitamin E was perceived only as an antioxidant. It was known to inhibit the activity of free radicals - toxic aggressive molecules formed during metabolism and destroying cell membranes. This leads to premature aging of the body and disruption of a number of functions.
A number of other equally important functions of this compound are currently known:
- It activates the formation of hemoglobin and myoglobin (stores and stores oxygen in the muscles), catalase and peroxidase (enzymes that promote the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen). There is a stimulation of tissue respiration, activation of metabolism and excretion of toxic metabolic products, rejuvenation of the body.
- Improves the absorption of vitamin A, promotes skin rejuvenation. After a course of taking a vitamin, a person looks younger.
- Suppresses cholesterol synthesis. Therefore, the compound is especially useful for persons suffering from coronary heart disease.
- Inhibits hemolysis (destruction) of erythrocytes.
- Improves the condition of the capillaries.
- In men, it prevents the development of impotence and infertility.
- Restores the menstrual cycle and reproductive function of a woman; during pregnancy suppresses the permeability of the placenta to toxic substances.
- Taking vitamin E is a way to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
- Has anti-cancer effect.
Pharmacokinetics
The absorption of the compound in the intestine is facilitated by bile and fats. For this fat-soluble vitamin to be properly absorbed in the intestines, it is taken after meals, and fats must be present in the food. But even in this case, half of the dose taken is absorbed.
When absorbed, vitamin E binds to fat-protein compounds that act as a vehicle. Tocopherols are deposited in hormonal and adipose tissue, as well as in other organs and tissues. They can accumulate, causing hypervitaminosis. This compound is excreted in different ways: mainly with bile and feces and a little through the kidneys.
Indications for taking vitamin E
Tocopherols are needed by adults and children. The indications for the use of this vitamin are very diverse.
For adults
Indications for adults are:
- hypovitaminosis E;
- a state of weakness (asthenia) after acute infections with a high fever;
- heavy physical activity during work or sports; helps to quickly recover from stress;
- overwork, accompanied by nervous disorders: irritable weakness, insomnia, etc.;
- elderly age; needed to suppress the aging process:
- diseases accompanied by weakness of the musculo-ligamentous apparatus;
- muscular dystrophy (a decrease in muscle volume) after a long stay in a motionless state with injuries and serious illnesses;
- menopause with severe disorders of the autonomic nervous system - tides to the upper half of the body, heart attacks, etc.; an indication is also osteoprosis, which develops with a decrease in hormonal levels: preparations with vitamin E stimulate the secretion of gonadotropic hormones of the pituitary gland, which, in turn, stimulates the production of sex hormones;
- degenerative-dystrophic diseases of the musculoskeletal system - osteoarthritis and osteochondrosis; helps to strengthen the muscles that support the skeleton;
- chronic skin diseases (psoriasis, etc.);
- menstrual irregularities, infertility in women; risk of miscarriage;
- impotence and infertility in men.
For kids
It has a positive effect on the development and restoration of health in children. The indications for the appointment are:
- lagging behind the child in height and weight;
- violation of neuropsychic and emotional development;
- prevention of respiratory diseases in newborns, especially in premature babies;
- restoration of health after infections, serious illnesses and operations.
During pregnancy and lactation
During pregnancy, vitamin E, produced in capsules, is needed by the woman's body, but in certain dosages selected by the doctor. During pregnancy, both its deficiency and excess are dangerous. Hypervitaminosis E can lead to premature maturation of the placenta and premature birth.
During breastfeeding, before taking the drug, you need to consult a doctor to clarify the dosage and duration of the course of administration.
Side effects and allergies
In the dosages prescribed by the doctor, tocopherol is well tolerated. Side effects are possible after taking large doses and are manifested in the form of abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea. Allergic reactions are also possible in the form of various itchy rashes and angioedema (Quincke's edema) with respiratory failure. If you suspect an allergy, you should immediately stop taking the capsules.
Contraindications and warnings
Despite the good tolerance, the drugs have contraindications:
- individual intolerance and allergies.
Take with caution, correctly, starting with small doses, you need to:
- with increased blood clotting;
- myocardial infarction;
- severe heart disease with impaired function of this organ;
- consistently high blood pressure;
- increased levels of triglycerides in the blood.
Reception and dosage
It will be correct to consult your doctor about how much and how to take vitamin E in capsules or pills. But sometimes this is not possible, so it is worth knowing the average dosages recommended for adults and children.
For adults
Vitamin E capsules are taken orally. You need to drink it after or during meals. The average daily dose for an adult is 100-200 IU. The course of treatment is 4 to 8 weeks. If necessary, the course can be repeated after three months. For persons with constant heavy physical exertion, the average daily dose can be increased to 600 or more, but not more than 1100 IU synthetic or 1500 IU natural.
For kids
- infants 5 - 10 IU;
- preschoolers 20 - 40 IU;
- schoolchildren 50 - 100 IU.
The dosage of vitamin E in capsules is not less than 100 IU, therefore, if the daily dose for children is less than 100 IU, it is recommended to drink the drug in a dosage form in the form of an oil solution in drops. 1 ml of oil solution contains about 30 drops. The duration of the course of treatment and the dosage is determined by the doctor.
UNIT CONVERTER: VITAMIN E
Natural Natural in the form of acetate Natural in the form of tocopherolic acid succinate Synthetic Synthetic in the form of acetate Synthetic in the form of tocopherolic acid succinate
Form of substance
IU mg μg g
Decimal places in the result
Convert
Conversion of IU ⇄ g / mg / μg (developed by pharmacists and doctors based on reliable data)
Application during pregnancy and lactation
How many capsules a day a woman needs during pregnancy and lactation is determined by the doctor. Preparations with vitamin E are prescribed in an individually selected dosage, taking into account the characteristics of the course of pregnancy. Before taking the drug by women while breastfeeding, you should also consult your doctor.
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Overdose
Since vitamin E can accumulate in the body, an overdose is possible only with a long course of treatment in large daily doses:
- if you apply from 400 to 800 IU per day for more than 8 weeks, the head starts to hurt and dizzy, there is a breakdown, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, blurred vision;
- if you use more than 800 IU per day for more than 8 weeks, the indicated symptoms increase, there is a risk of thromboembolism (formation of blood clots in the vessels with their further separation and blockage of significant vessels), thrombophlebitis (inflammation of the walls of blood vessels clogged with blood clots), impaired liver and kidney function and cardiovascular system, blindness on the background of retinal hemorrhage.
If you suspect an overdose, you should immediately stop taking tocopherol and consult a doctor.
Drug interactions
Instructions for the use of vitamin E capsules contain information on its interaction with other medications. Taking tocopherol:
- Potentiates (enhances) the action:
- glucocorticoid hormones (prednisone);
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, diclofenac);
- cardiac glycosides (digoxin, strophanthin).
- Reduces toxicity:
- cardiac glycosides;
- fat-soluble vitamins A and D.
Tocopherols should not be used in conjunction with iron. If there is a need to drink such drugs, it is correct to take a break of at least two hours between taking tocopherol and iron.
special instructions
In the instructions for use, it is noted that vitamin E promotes tissue regeneration, therefore, it is often prescribed for chronic recurrent diseases, accompanied by exhaustion and loss of strength. The dosage and duration of admission are determined by the attending physician.
Terms and conditions of storage
Capsules and tablets can be stored at a temperature of 10 - 25 ° C, out of direct sunlight.
The drug retains its medicinal properties during two years. The countdown is from the date of manufacture.
Conditions of dispensing from pharmacies
The drug can be purchased at the pharmacy without a prescription.
One capsule contains
active substance - alpha-tocopherol acetate - 200 mg, 400 mg,
Excipients: vegetable oil, gelatin, glycerin 85%, methyl parahydroxybenzoate, Ponso 4R dye, purified water.
Description
Oval soft gelatin capsules, red. The contents of the capsules are clear, light yellow oil
Pharmacotherapeutic group
Vitamins. Other vitamins. Other vitamins in pure form. Vitamin E.
ATX code A11HA03
Pharmacological properties
Pharmacokinetics
When taken orally, Vitamin E is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, absorption is 50%.
Vitamin E enters the bloodstream mainly through the lymph, the maximum concentration in the serum is reached 4-8 hours after ingestion, and after 24 hours the initial level is restored. Vitamin E binds to alpha1 and beta proteins, in part to serum albumin. Vitamin E is distributed throughout all tissues of the body, mainly in fatty tissues. The distribution of tocopherols in various tissues was determined after oral administration. α -tocopherol acetate labeled with 14C carbon atoms. The highest activity was observed in the adrenal glands, high in the spleen, lungs, testes and stomach, and low in the brain. Lipid content is an important factor influencing the function and level of tocopherols in the blood. Lipoproteins play an important role in the physiological functioning of tocopherols, acting as a transport system.
The concentration of tocopherol in the blood serum of a healthy person ranges from 6 to 14 μg / l.
Plasma concentration does not depend on nutrition at the moment, but a reduced plasma lipid level - below 5 μg / L, which persists for several months, can lead to symptoms of vitamin E deficiency.After high doses of vitamin E are used, its plasma concentrations increase within 1-2 days.
Alpha-tocopherol acetate is metabolized in the liver to derivatives with a quinone structure (some of them have vitamin activity). It is excreted in the bile (over 90%) and urine (about 6%) unchanged and in the form of metabolites.
Penetrates through the placenta in insufficient quantities: 20 - 30% of the concentration in the mother's blood penetrates into the fetal blood. Penetrates into breast milk.
Pharmacodynamics
Vitamin E has an antioxidant effect, participates in the biosynthesis of heme and proteins, cell proliferation, tissue respiration, and other important processes of tissue metabolism, reduces increased capillary permeability and fragility.
It is necessary for the development and functioning of connective tissue, smooth and skeletal muscles, as well as for strengthening the walls of blood vessels. Takes part in the metabolism of nucleic acids and prostaglandins, the cellular respiratory cycle, in the synthesis of arachidonic acid. Stimulates the synthesis of proteins and collagen; normalizes reproductive function.
Vitamin E, being a natural antioxidant, inhibits lipid peroxidation by free radicals. Activates phagocytosis and prevents erythrocyte hemolysis. In large doses, it prevents platelet aggregation.
The drug inhibits the oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids and selenium (a component of the microsomal electron transport system), inhibits the synthesis of cholesterol, thereby preventing the development of atherosclerosis, degenerative-dystrophic changes in the heart muscle and skeletal muscles.
Indications for use
Prevention and treatment of hypovitaminosis E
In complex therapy for the following conditions:
As a maintenance therapy in the hormonal treatment of menstrual disorders
Degenerative and proliferative changes in the spine and large joints
Primary and secondary muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Atrophic processes of the mucous membrane respiratory tract and / or gastrointestinal tract
Eating disorders, malabsorption syndrome, alimentary anemia; as an adjunct therapy for chronic hepatitis
Hypofunction of the sex glands in men (with male infertility in combination with vitamin A)
Fibroplastic induration of the penis
Balanitis
Kraurosis of the vulva
Conditions of convalescence after previous illnesses
Method of administration and dosage
Is taken orally, the capsule is swallowed without chewing, drinking plenty of water.
With hypovitaminosis, vitamin E is prescribed for 1 month:
- capsules 200 mg: adults 1-2 capsules per day.
- capsules 400 mg: adults 1 capsule per day.
The maximum daily dose is 800-1000 mg.
In case of menstrual irregularities (as an adjunct to hormonal therapy), 300-400 mg are prescribed every other day sequentially, starting from the 17th day of the cycle for 5 cycles.
In case of menstrual irregularities in young girls, before the start of hormonal therapy, a trial is prescribed 100 mg 1-2 times a day for 2-3 months.
For muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis - 2 capsules (400 mg each) 2 times a day, the course of treatment is 2-3 months.
With malabsorption syndrome, alimentary anemia, 300 mg per day is prescribed for 10 days.
With fibroplastic induration of the penis, 300-400 mg per day are shown for 4 weeks, then 50 mg per day for 4 months.
With hypofunction of the gonads in men - 400 mg daily for 2-3 weeks.
For children 12 years and older, Vitamin E Zentiva® is prescribed at 100mg-200mg per day.
The duration of the course of treatment is determined by the attending physician.
Side effects
Often
Diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain, constipation
Headache, fatigue, weakness
Possible
Allergic reactions, bronchospasm
Rarely
- creatinuria, increased creatine kinase activity, increased levels
serum cholesterol
Thrombophlebitis, pulmonary thromboembolism, venous thrombosis
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to drug components
Children under 12 years of age
Acute myocardial infarction
Hypothrombinemia
Drug interactions
Iron supplements increase daily requirement in vitamin E. Vitamin E in daily doses above 400 IU can enhance the effect of anticoagulants.
The simultaneous intake of large doses of Vitamin E with iron preparations, vitamin K and / or anticoagulants increases the blood clotting time.
Vitamin E, when taken together, enhances the effect of glucocortico-steroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, cardiac glycosides. Increases the effectiveness of antiepileptic drugs in patients with epilepsy, in whom the content of lipid peroxidation products in the blood is increased.
Vitamin A reserves in the body can be depleted with high doses of vitamin E.
special instructions
Hypothrombinemia-induced vitamin K deficiency can be exacerbated by the use of high doses of vitamin E.
In rare cases, creatinuria, increased creatine kinase activity and serum cholesterol levels, thrombophlebitis, pulmonary embolism, thrombosis in patients predisposed to blood coagulation disorders are possible.
With epidermolysis bullosa - the growth of white hair in areas affected by alopecia.
Very high doses (more than 800 mg per day with long-term use) can predispose to bleeding in patients with vitamin K deficiency, possibly a violation of hormone metabolism thyroid gland and an increased risk of thrombophlebitis and thromboembolism in patients prone to thrombosis.
Use in pediatrics
This dosage form is not used in children under 6 years of age.