What is the recommended dosage for Vitamin E?

Note: High-dose supplementation no longer recommended based on clinical trial evidence; General: 15 mg/day (22.4 IU)

What are the side effects of Vitamin E?

Potential side effects include: Increased bleeding risk at high doses, Possible increased all-cause mortality at >=400 IU/day, Increased heart failure hospitalization risk (HOPE/HOPE-TOO), Nausea, diarrhea, fatigue at high doses.

What is vitamin E and how may it relate to cardiovascular health?

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that protects lipoproteins from oxidation. While observational studies suggested cardiovascular benefits, large RCTs including HOPE and ATBC did not demonstrate cardiovascular protection from vitamin E supplementation. A meta-analysis suggested high-dose vitamin E (above 400 IU/day) may increase all-cause mortality.

What dosage of vitamin E has been studied for cardiovascular outcomes?

Clinical trials used 100–800 IU of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) per day. The HOPE trial used 400 IU daily for 4.5 years. Current evidence does not support high-dose vitamin E supplementation for cardiovascular prevention. The RDA is 15 mg (22.4 IU) of natural alpha-tocopherol.

What are the potential side effects of vitamin E supplements?

High-dose vitamin E may increase bleeding risk, particularly when combined with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs. A meta-analysis found increased all-cause mortality at doses above 400 IU/day. Vitamin E may interact with statins, chemotherapy drugs, and blood thinners. The tolerable upper intake level is 1,000 mg (1,500 IU) of natural alpha-tocopherol.

Vitamin E

vitamin

Also known as: Alpha-Tocopherol, d-Alpha-Tocopherol, Mixed Tocopherols, Tocotrienols

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About

Vitamin E is the primary lipid-soluble antioxidant in LDL particles and cell membranes. Despite strong mechanistic rationale, large RCTs have been disappointing. The HOPE trial (9,541 participants) found no cardiovascular benefit at 400 IU/day, and a 2005 meta-analysis found high-dose vitamin E (>=400 IU/day) was associated with increased all-cause mortality. Current AHA guidelines do not recommend vitamin E supplementation.

How It Works

Primary lipid-soluble antioxidant in LDL particles and cell membranes; inhibits LDL oxidation — a key early step in atherogenesis; modulates inflammatory gene expression via NF-kB inhibition; inhibits platelet adhesion and smooth muscle cell proliferation.

Evidence For Conditions

Condition	Grade	Studies	Participants
Atherosclerosis	C	15	50000	View →

Side Effects

Increased bleeding risk at high doses
Possible increased all-cause mortality at >=400 IU/day
Increased heart failure hospitalization risk (HOPE/HOPE-TOO)
Nausea, diarrhea, fatigue at high doses

Drug & Supplement Interactions

Anticoagulants (increased bleeding risk)
Statins and niacin (may blunt HDL-raising effect)
Chemotherapy and radiation (theoretical interference with oxidative mechanisms)
Vitamin K (may antagonize at high doses)

Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you take.

Related Ingredients

Folate (Vitamin B9) Niacin (Vitamin B3) Vitamin D Vitamin K2

Quick Facts

Dosage: Note: High-dose supplementation no longer recommended based on clinical trial evidence; General: 15 mg/day (22.4 IU)
Forms: capsule softgel liquid
Natural Sources: Sunflower seeds, Almonds, Hazelnuts, Wheat germ oil, Spinach, Avocado
Upper Limit: 1,000 mg/day (1,500 IU natural, 1,100 IU synthetic)
Best Time: With meals containing fat

Evidence Summary

Atherosclerosis C

FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.