Alpha-lipoic acid is a natural antioxidant. Your body produces a steady supply to fight cell damage and the effects of aging, yet some researchers have found that supplementation may give your system a boost in fighting disease. It sounds viable in theory, but this supplement still needs a lot of research. Don't start taking it until you understand its potential effects on your body.
Function
Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that is produced naturally by your body. Antioxidants fight free radicals, which are substances that can cause damage to your cells. Alpha-lipoic acid exists in every cell of your body, where it helps turn glucose into energy and may help regenerate other antioxidants. It has also been shown to lower blood sugar levels, reduce pain associated with diabetes, and protect brain and nerve tissue from damage. Many of its suggested benefits are still being investigated, but it may improve survival rates after a stroke, treat glaucoma and inhibit HIV growth.
Current Safety Research
As of 2011, the research on the safety of alpha-lipoic acid has focused primarily on rats. Two studies published in "Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology" in 2006 found that there were no confirmed adverse effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation, and it appeared to be safe.
Because alpha-lipoic acid may have benefits to all older mammals, it was tested on beagles in 2002. This study, published in "Veterinary Therapeutics," found no signs of toxicity except when the dogs were given very high doses. Much more research is needed to determine alpha-lipoic acid's safety for human subjects. A review published in "Diabetes Education" in 2007 found that it does appear to be safe for diabetic neuropathy patients and can be considered an effective treatment option.
Known Side Effects and Risks
While alpha-lipoic acid may be safe, there are no recommended dosage levels or established medical norms. It has not been studied for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. You must speak with your doctor before taking this supplement, as the risks are relatively unknown.
Known side effects are rare, however, and usually manifest as a skin rash. Alpha-lipoic acid can lower blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes or hypoglycemia should seek medical advice and supervision. It may also lower thyroid hormone in the blood, which can be dangerous for people on thyroid-regulating medication.
Conclusions
Because so little is known about alpha-lipoic acid as a medicinal supplement, it's strongly advisable that you consult with a doctor before taking it. It's also important to note that dosages vary widely: general-use doses are usually between 20mg and 50mg per day, while diabetes-related doses are around 800mg per day. Your body produces alpha-lipoic acid naturally, so there's a strong chance you don't need it unless it's prescribed by a medical professional.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Alpha-Lipoic Acid
- "Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology"; Safety Evaluation of Alpha-Lipoic Acid; D. R. Cremer, et al.; October 2006
- "Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology"; Long-Term Safety of Alpha-Lipoic Acid: A 2-Year Study; D. R. Cremer, et al.; December 2006
- "Veterinary Therapeutics"; Safety of Long-Term Feeding of DL-Alpha-Lipoic Acid and its Effect on Reduced Glutathione:Oxidized Glutathione Ratios in Beagles; S.C. Zicker, et al.; Summer 2002
- "Diabetes Education"; Efficacy and Safety of Alpha-Lipoic Acid Supplementation in the Treatment of Symptomatic Diabetic Neuropathy; T.S. Foster; January-February 2007
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