The Effect of Alpha-tocopherol in Hemolysis and Oxidative Stress Marker on the Red Cell
Phase: NA
Conditions: Beta Thalassemia Major Anemia, Hemolysis, Oxidative Stress
Sponsor: Indonesia University

 
The Effects of α-Tocopherol in Hemolysis and Oxidative Stress Marker 
on Red Cell Membrane β-Thalassemia Major 
 
 
Background: The accumulation of unpaired α-globin chains in β-thalassemia major patients may 
clinically create ineffective erythropoiesis, hemolysis, and chronic anemia. Multiple blood 
transfusions and iron overload cause cellular oxidative damage. However, α-tocopherol, an 
antioxidant, has been known as a potent scavenger of lipid radicals in the red cell membrane of β-
thalassemia major patients. 
Purpose: To evaluate the effects of α-tocopherol in hemolysis and oxidative stress on the red cell 
membrane of β-thalassemia major. 
Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, we allocated subjects in the placebo and α-
tocopherol groups. Doses of α-tocopherol were based on the recommendation of Institute of 
Medicine: 4–8 years old 200 mg/day; 9–13 years old 400 mg/day; 14–18 years old 600 mg/day. 
Hemolysis, oxidative stress, and antioxidant variables were evaluated before and after 4 weeks of 
consuming either α-tocopherol or placebo, performed prior to blood transfusions. 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
Figure. Study Protocol 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                                          
 
α-tocopherol group 
Transfusion of PRC 
Transfusion of PRC 
Randomization 
Placebo group 
Supplementation of α-tocopherol 
for four weeks 
Placebo 
for four weeks 
Transfusion of PRC 
Transfusion of PRC 
β-Thalassemia Major 
Blood sample:  
Hp, Hx, fragilitas SDM 
MDA, GSH, GSSG 
α-tocopherol 
Hb, 
Serum ferritin 
Transferin saturation 
ALT, Total Cholesterol 
HBsAg, Anti HCV 
 
Blood sample:  
Hp, Hx, fragilitas SDM 
MDA, GSH, GSSG 
α- α-tocopherol