Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin E (alpha-tocopheryl hydrochloride)
For the health condition: Arteriosclerosis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin E, commonly in the form of alpha-tocopherol (not alpha-tocopheryl hydrochloride, which is rarely used as a supplement), has been studied for its potential role in preventing or treating arteriosclerosis (atherosclerosis), primarily due to its antioxidant properties. The rationale is that oxidative modification of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol contributes to the development of atherosclerotic plaques, and Vitamin E could theoretically limit this process by neutralizing free radicals.

Epidemiological studies from the 1980s and 1990s suggested an association between higher Vitamin E intake and reduced cardiovascular risk. However, large randomized controlled trials, such as the Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation (HOPE) study and the Physicians' Health Study II, have not demonstrated a significant benefit of Vitamin E supplementation in preventing cardiovascular events or slowing the progression of arteriosclerosis in the general population. Some meta-analyses have even raised concerns about possible harm at high doses.

Consequently, while there is a scientific basis for studying Vitamin E in arteriosclerosis, and its use was once widely advocated, clinical trial evidence does not support routine supplementation for this purpose. Major guidelines do not recommend Vitamin E for arteriosclerosis prevention or treatment. Its use persists in some alternative medicine circles, but this is not supported by high-quality evidence.

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