Alpha-Tocopherol

Alpha-Tocopherol Polyethylene Glycol Succinate (TPGS) is indicated in some individuals with chronic cholestatic liver disease of infancy and childhood. TPGS might also be useful in some other forms of liver disease and in fat-soluble vitamin deficiency. TPGS is helpful in treating vitamin E malabsorption in short-bowel syndrome and it might protect the liver against some toxins. There is some evidence that when co-administered, TPGS can enhance the absorbability of some pharmaceutical drugs. It might also be useful in treating some of the malabsorption problems associated with colitis, Crohn's disease, HIV disease, ulcerative cystic fibrosis, and others.

TPGS is usually prescribed and monitored by a physician. Individuals on warfarin should be aware that high doses of TPGS may enhance the anticoagulant effect of warfarin, and therefore they should have their INRs carefully monitored and warfarin doses adjusted if necessary. Individuals with vitamin K deficiencies should know that high doses of TPGS might have anticoagulant activity. TPGS should be taken with care in individuals with lesions with a tendency to bleed, individuals with a history of hemorrhagic stroke, and individuals with inherited bleeding disorders. Unless a physician advises otherwise, high dose TPGS should be stopped about one month before surgical procedures. Individuals on the HIV protease inhibitor amprenavir should to be aware that, if they are taking the recommended daily adult dose of this drug, they are receiving 1,168 milligrams (1,744 IUs) daily of d-alpha-tocopherol. High doses of TPGS may enhance the effects of antiplatelet medicines. TPGS might increase absorption of Cyclosporine and other lipophilic medicines if taken concurrently. High doses of TPGS might enhance the anticoagulant response of warfarin. Monitor INRs and appropriately adjust dose of warfare if necessary. TPGS might increase the absorption of CoQ10, flavonoids, and polyphenols if taken concurrently. Selenium might function synergistically with alpha-tocopherol. Vitamin C may aid in maintaining alpha-tocopherol in its reduced form. TPGS might increase the absorption of vitamins A, D and K if taken concurrently. TPGS may increase the absorption of all forms of vitamin E (gamma-tocopherol, tocotrienol) if taken concurrently. High doses of TPGS might cause decreased gamma-tocopherol and tocotrienol plasma levels. Herbs such as garlic and ginkgo, possess antithrombotic activity. High doses of TPGS used concurrently with these herbs may enhance antithrombotic activity. This website is intended to educate and inform, and should not replace discussions with your doctor.