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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking vitamin E?

Before using vitamin E, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, herbalist, or other healthcare provider. You may not be able to take vitamin E if you have certain medical conditions.

You may need a dose adjustment or special tests if you have:

• liver disease;
• diabetes;
• active or uncontrolled bleeding;
• a vitamin K deficiency;
• retinitis pigmentosa;
• short bowel syndrome;
• chronic diarrhea;
• a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot;
• if you have recently had surgery; or
• if you are receiving cancer treatment (chemotherapy or radiation).

It is not known whether vitamin E is harmful to an unborn baby. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy. Do not use this product without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using vitamin E.

It is not known whether vitamin E passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Your dose needs may be different while you are nursing. Do not use this product without a doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take vitamin E?

Take exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Take vitamin E with a full glass of water.

The chewable tablet must be chewed completely before you swallow it.

Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

You may take vitamin E with or without food. You do not need to eat extra fat to help your body absorb vitamin E.

The recommended dietary allowance of vitamin E increases with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You may also consult the National Academy of Sciences "Dietary Reference Intake" or the U.S. Department of Agriculture's "Dietary Reference Intake" (formerly "Recommended Daily Allowances" or RDA) listings for more information.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

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