Side Effects Of Lipoic Acid Supplements

This therapeutic acid, found in green vegetables, tomatoes and rice bran, can help to empty your body of free radicals that can produce cancer opportunities, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes. Lipoic acid, also called alpha lipoic acid, also may help in treating cancer, AIDS, diabetes and liver disease. This acid also can help to accelerate the therapeutic abilities of vitamins C and E as well as glutathione, which is involved in healing. Side effects may occur while taking this supplement.

Upset Stomach

An upset stomach may occur as a response to a new supplement such as lipoic acid in your digestive tract. This side effect generally goes away after a few days because your body acclimates to the new supplement. You should talk to your doctor if this side effect continues and worries you.

Headache

Headaches can occur as hormonal changes happen in your body as a result of new chemicals introduced such as lipoic acid, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center states. Your hormone status should go back to normal once your body adjusts to the new supplement. If the headaches persist, talk with your practitioner to evaluate the problem. Headaches may signify an underlying health issue not yet diagnosed.

Dizziness

Dizziness may occur as your body adjusts to this new supplement, Drugs.com reports. Your head may feel as if it is spinning when you change postural positions such as from a chair to standing. Talk to your doctor if this side effect becomes bothersome and does not go away on its own within a couple of days.

Tired Feeling

You may begin to feel tired while taking this new supplement. Your body will fight off new free radicals with this supplement, causing changes in your body's chemistry that may make you feel fatigued, as though you had participated in strenuous activity.

Muscle Cramps

Muscle cramps may occur as a result of starting lipoic acid as a supplement, Drugs.com reports. Your muscles may react to the difference in chemicals. If the muscle cramps become severe, stop the supplement and call your doctor.