The cells in your body naturally produce lipoic acid, an antixoidant that protects them from damage. If you're at risk for diabetes, dementia or multiple sclerosis, your doctor may recommend adding a lipoic acid supplement to your daily diet; however, additional clinical research in humans is necessary to further examine the medicinal benefits of lipoic acid supplementation. Before taking this supplement, discuss the risks of lipoic acid with your doctor.
Adverse Side Effects
Orally administered lipoic acid may induce adverse side effects in certain people. The digestive tract could be affected, including nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Diarrhea may also cause abdominal pain, cramping or bloating. If you take more than 1,200 milligrams of lipoic acid daily, you may also notice that your urine emits an unusually foul odor, the Linus Pauling Institute reports. Talk with your medical provider if any of these adverse side effects are bothersome, persistent or severe.
Allergic Reaction
An allergic reaction is the most common risk associated with lipoic acid supplementation. After taking a dose of lipoic acid, you may develop red, itchy, swollen skin lesions across your body. Scratching at the affected skin region may increase your risk of developing a skin infection. Seek care from your physician if skin irritation doesn't subside or increases in severity.
Medication Interactions
Inform your physician of all medications you are taking before you start using lipoic acid supplements. Concomitant use of lipoic acid and insulin, diabetes drugs or thyroid-regulating medications should be avoided. The antioxidant effects of this supplement may interfere with certain cancer therapies, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Lipoic acid may reduce your blood sugar levels, which may cause hypoglycemia if you are also receiving drug treatment for diabetes. Additionally, this supplement may reduce the amounts of thyroid hormone in your body. Consequently, your doctor may need to adjust the amounts of thyroid medication you are taking if you have a thyroid condition.
Contraindications
Discuss any medical concerns you may have with your health care provider before initiating treatment with this natural supplement. Do not use lipoic acid if you are pregnant or breastfeeding without first consulting your doctor. Health professionals with the University of Maryland Medical Center also warn that people who are deficient in vitamin B-1, also called thiamine, should avoid using lipoic acid.
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