Alpha lipoic acid

An antioxidant that works in both water and fat, studied in nerve health.

Also known as: ALA
Evidence: Clinical evidence Evidence level 4 of 5
Key compounds: R- and S-alpha lipoic acid, a sulphur-containing fatty acid.
Body systems: Nerves

In research

Alpha lipoic acid is a mitochondrial cofactor. It has been studied in diabetic neuropathy.

Strength of evidence

Clinical evidence

Tested in randomised trials in people, usually small or short. How we grade evidence.

What we know

At 600 mg daily it reduced neuropathy symptoms over five weeks in a randomised trial. A four-year trial was safe but did not meet its main goal.

What we do not know yet

Whether it can slow the progression of neuropathy.

Safety and cautions

Higher doses commonly cause nausea and dizziness. It can lower blood sugar, so people taking diabetes medicines should monitor glucose.

Evidence

Research and answers

Appraised research and plain-language answers that involve Alpha lipoic acid.

Randomised controlled trial Mixed or partial

Four years of alpha lipoic acid in diabetic neuropathy (NATHAN 1)

Long-term use appears safe, with signals of benefit on clinical signs, but it did not meet its main goal. Evidence for slowing progression is not settled.

Diabetes Care, 2011 · 460 participants · Alpha lipoic acid

Randomised controlled trial Supportive

Oral alpha lipoic acid for symptomatic diabetic neuropathy (SYDNEY 2)

Supports short-term symptom relief at 600 mg a day, the dose with the best balance of benefit and tolerability.

Diabetes Care, 2006 · 181 participants · Alpha lipoic acid

QuestionNerves

What causes neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is damage to the long nerves that run to the hands and feet. The most common cause is diabetes.

Myth or evidence

If a little is good, more must be better

Usually not. For most nutrients and medicines, benefit levels off once a need is met, while side effects keep rising.

Explainer

What is oxidative stress?

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between reactive molecules, often called free radicals, and the body's ability to neutralise them. A little is normal and even useful.

Where you will find it

Products that contain it

Ceptonerv Targeted nutrition for nerve health. Tablet · 150 mg

Often found alongside

The full atlas

CarnitineNutrient ChromiumMineral Coenzyme Q10Nutrient CurcuminCurcuma longa FolateVitamin L-arginineNutrient

Ingredient pages summarise traditional use and the direction of published research for education. They are not claims about any product and are not medical advice.

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