Alpha-lipoic Acid 200 Mg Side Effects

Alpha-lipoic acid is also called thioctic acid and commonly is referred to as ALA. Its antioxidant properties are used to treat diabetes and HIV, functioning somewhat like B-complex vitamins, according to Drugs.com. It also may slow your aging process. Taking ALA in doses of more than more than 20 mg can have side effects. ALA manufacturers usually recommend taking two 50 mg capsules daily, but you can buy tablets with higher dosages.

Skin Reaction

You may suffer one of the most frequently reported side effects of oral ALA supplementation---a minor allergic reaction--if you take the 200 mg dose. These reactions typically affect your skin and include hives, itching or rashes, according to Oregon State University. When you have an allergic reaction, your immune system produces proteins called IgE antibodies. This, in turn, triggers release of histamines that lead to allergy symptoms. In general, allergies can lead to symptoms that involve your skin, digestive system, sinuses or airways or digestive system, according to the Mayo Clinic. Allergic reactions can vary from person to person, and they can range from minor skin irritation to anaphylaxis, which is potentially life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if you have facial swelling, airway swelling or trouble breathing, advise the experts at the Mayo Clinic.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

You may suffer gastrointestinal symptoms if you supplement with ALA. These may include nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea, according to Oregon State University.

Insomnia

Taking ALA in a dose that's higher than 40 mg can cause insomnia, according to Dr. Ray Sahelian of Los Angeles, author of "Mind Boosters." It also can cause overstimulation.

Hypoglycemia Risk

Taking ALA can increase your risk of hypoglycemia, meaning low blood sugar, if you take it along with diabetes medications including insulin. The experts at OSU's Linus Pauling Institute for Micronutrient Research recommend close supervision by a physician if you take ALA along with diabetes medicines.
Other medicines that can increase risk of hypoglycemia when taken in conjunction with blood-sugar lowering supplements include acarbose, chlorpropamide, glipizide, gliquidone, metformin, miglitol, nateglinide, pioglitazone, repglinide, rosiglitazone, tolazamide and tobutamide, according to "The Essential Herb-Drug-Vitamin Interaction Guide," by George T. Grossberg and Barry Fox.
Taking such a supplement along with herbs that can lower blood sugar also can increase risk of hypoglycemia, advise Grossberg and Fox. Such herbs include bilberry, devil's claw, fenugreek, bitter melon, goats's rue, ginseng, garlic, horse chestnut, guar gum, psyllium, white willow and kudzu.