Alpha Lipoic Acid
About Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha Lipoic Acid is used to treat diabetic polyneuropathy. Diabetic polyneuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur if you have diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy most often damages nerves in your legs and feet.
Alpha Lipoic Acid contains alpha-lipoic acid, which traps damaging oxygen radicals in both aqueous and lipid-soluble cellular environments, thereby counteracting the sensory disorders of diabetic polyneuropathy.
Sometimes, you may experience certain common side effects such as dizziness, sleepiness, tiredness, headache and upset stomach. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.
Do not take Alpha Lipoic Acid if you are pregnant or breastfeeding unless recommended by the doctor. Alpha Lipoic Acid should not be given to children as safety and effectiveness have not been established. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before taking Alpha Lipoic Acid.
Uses of Alpha Lipoic Acid
Medicinal Benefits
- Helps reduce nerve pain, burning, and numbness (especially in diabetes)
- Acts as a strong antioxidant to protect cells from damage
- Improves blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity
- Supports energy production in the body
- Helps protect liver health
- May improve skin health and reduce signs of aging
- Supports brain function and may protect nerve cells
- Helps reduce inflammation in the body
Directions for Use
- Take Alpha Lipoic Acid with food or as advised by your physician.
- It is advised to take Alpha Lipoic Acid once or twice daily; however, follow your doctor's recommendation regarding the dosage and duration.
- Swallow Alpha Lipoic Acid as a whole with a glass of water.
- Do not chew, crush or break it.
Storage
Side Effects of Alpha Lipoic Acid
- Upset stomach
- Rash
- Change in eyesight
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Sleepiness
- Feeling sleepy
- Feeling weak
Medicines Containing this Salt
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Drug Warnings
- Do not take Alpha Lipoic Acid if you're allergic to any ingredient in it.
- Do not take Alpha Lipoic Acid if you are pregnant or breastfeeding unless recommended by the doctor.
- Alpha Lipoic Acid may cause drowsiness and dizziness, so drive only if alert.
- Alpha Lipoic Acid should not be given to children as safety and effectiveness have not been established.
- Avoid consuming alcohol along with Alpha Lipoic Acid to avoid unpleasant side effects.
- Keep your doctor informed about your health condition and medicines to rule out any side effects.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor if you are taking any of these medicines, as there may be an interaction.
- Anti-diabetic medications (metformin)
• Potential effect: May increase the risk of low blood sugar. - Thyroid medicine (levothyroxine)
• Potential effect: May reduce the effectiveness of thyroid medicine. - Minerals (iron, magnesium)
• Potential effect: May reduce the absorption of these medicines.
Drug-Food Interactions: Avoid consuming alcohol with Alpha Lipoic Acid to avoid unpleasant side effects.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Inform your doctor if you have a history of the following conditions before taking Alpha Lipoic Acid, as it may worsen your condition or cause complications.
- Suicidal tendency
- Angioedema
- Peripheral oedema
- Malabsorption
- Anaemia.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeYou are recommended not to consume alcohol along with Alpha Lipoic Acid to avoid unpleasant side effects.
Pregnancy
consult your doctorAvoid taking Alpha Lipoic Acid if you are pregnant unless recommended by a doctor. Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding this; your doctor will recommend it only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
consult your doctorConsult your doctor before taking Alpha Lipoic Acid, and your doctor will decide whether Alpha Lipoic Acid can be taken by breastfeeding mothers or not.
Driving
cautionDrive only if you are physically stable and mentally focused. If you experience drowsiness after taking this medication, you should not drive or operate any machinery or vehicles.
Liver
consult your doctorPlease consult your doctor if you have a liver impairment or any concerns regarding this.
Kidney
consult your doctorPlease consult your doctor if you have kidney impairment or any concerns regarding this.
Children
unsafeAlpha Lipoic Acid should not be given to children as the safety and efficacy have not been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
Lifestyle changes
- Acupuncture can be helpful by stimulating pressure points.
- Using essential oils for massages can help increase circulation.
Diet
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables to support antioxidant effects.
- Include whole grains and high-fibre foods to help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Limit sugary and processed foods to improve the effectiveness of diabetes control.
Habits
- Avoid smoking, as it increases oxidative stress and reduces the benefit of the supplement.
- Limit alcohol consumption to protect liver function and nerve health.
Physical activity
- Engage in regular moderate exercise like walking, cycling, or yoga for at least 30 minutes most days
- Include strength training exercises 2–3 times a week to improve muscle strength and metabolism
- Do gentle stretching or balance exercises to support nerve health and reduce stiffness
Special Advise
- It is advised to rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down to decrease dizziness.
- Your doctor may recommend regular vision checks.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Diabetic neuropathy: Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur if you have diabetes. High blood sugar (glucose) can injure nerves throughout your body. Diabetic neuropathy most often damages nerves in your legs and feet.
FAQs
Alpha Lipoic Acid is used to treat diabetic polyneuropathy.
Alpha Lipoic Acid contains the active ingredient of alpha-lipoic acid. Alpha-lipoic acid is a free-radical scavenger that catches damaging oxygen radicals both in aqueous and lipid-soluble cell environments, thereby counteracting the sensory disorders of diabetic polyneuropathy.
Over time, the high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can damage the nerves. This type of nerve damage is known as diabetic polyneuropathy.
Alpha Lipoic Acid is used to treat diabetic neuropathy. Diabetic neuropathy is a condition in which nerve damage results from high blood glucose levels. It mostly causes pain in the legs and feet.
Do not discontinue Alpha Lipoic Acid without consulting your doctor, as it could lead to withdrawal symptoms. To treat your condition effectively, continue taking Alpha Lipoic Acid for as long as recommended. Do not be reluctant to speak with your doctor if you feel any difficulty while taking Alpha Lipoic Acid; your doctor will gradually reduce the dose.
Consult your doctor before taking Alpha Lipoic Acid if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. Your doctor will recommend Alpha Lipoic Acid only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Alpha Lipoic Acid should not be given to children as the safety and efficacy have not been established.
The common side effects of Alpha Lipoic Acid are dizziness, sleepiness, tiredness, headache and stomach upset. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, please consult your doctor.
