Lipoic acid, also called alpha-lipoic acid, is an antioxidant that helps prevent cell damage in your body. Normally, your body makes all of the lipoic acid it needs. However, lipoic acid supplements may help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce symptoms of nerve damage and treat liver disease. More research is needed to support these potential health effects of lipoic acid. Before you begin using this supplement, talk with your physician about the safety of lipoic acid.
Warnings
Treatment with lipoic acid may be inappropriate for people with certain medical issues or concerns. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated the safety and effectiveness of this supplement in pregnant women. For this reason, expectant or lactating mothers should avoid using lipoic acid. If you have unusually low blood levels of vitamin B-1, also called thiamine, you shouldn't take lipoic acid, because this supplement may reduce your vitamin B-1 levels. People with diabetes should consult a doctor before using lipoic acid due to the potential blood sugar-lowering effects of this supplement. In addition, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns that people who are being treated with thyroid hormone therapy should have their blood levels monitored closely if they are also taking lipoic acid supplements.
Possible Interactions
Possible drug interactions may occur while you are taking lipoic acid. If you are taking medication to control your blood sugar, avoid treatment with lipoic acid. Lipoic acid may enhance the effects of diabetes medications, which may increase your risk of developing a significant drop in your blood sugar -- a condition called hypoglycemia. The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University recommends that blood sugar levels of diabetics who are taking lipoic acid should be monitored closely. In addition, the cell-protective effects of lipoic acid may reduce the effectiveness of certain types of cancer therapies, including chemotherapy. Additional research is needed to evaluate whether lipoic acid interacts with such treatments, however.
Overall Safety
Lipoic acid is generally regarded as safe when used as directed. Certain people may experience rare side effects including skin rash or stomach discomfort. If these or other health problems arise while you are taking lipoic acid, seek further evaluation and care from your medical provider.
Recommended Dosage
Lipoic acid is normally sold over-the-counter as alpha-lipoic acid and is available in 30 to 100 mg tablets. Health professionals with the University of Maryland Medical Center recommend adults take 20 to 50 mg of alpha-lipoic acid daily for its antioxidant effects. Adults with diabetes or nerve damage caused by diabetes may take up to 800 mg of alpha-lipoic acid each day divided into two, 400 mg doses. Despite these recommendations, your appropriate dose of alpha-lipoic acid may vary depending on your health status, body weight and age. For these reasons, consult your doctor before taking alpha-lipoic acid to ensure you take the correct amount of this supplement.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Alpha-Lipoic Acid; Steven D. Ehrlich; March 14, 2009
- Wellness Guide to Dietary Supplements: Alpha-Lipoic Acid
- American Cancer Society; Lipoic Acid; Nov. 1, 2008
- Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University; Lipoic Acid; Dr. Jane Higdon; April 10, 2006
- RxList: Alpha-Lipoic Acid
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