Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant studied for neuropathy and metabolic outcomes. Evidence strength differs by condition.
Overview
What is Alpha-lipoic acid?
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), also called thioctic acid, is a sulfur-containing antioxidant involved in mitochondrial energy production. It scavenges reactive oxygen species and is naturally produced in plants, animals, and humans from cysteine and fatty acids.
Dosage
A typical dose of alpha-lipoic acid is 300 to 600 mg per day.
Effect graph
Effect heatmap
SupplementDEX Database
47 conditions for , and rated at least stars. All purchase bands. No minimum star filter.
Database Snapshot
Most alpha-lipoic acid research is concentrated in a handful of conditions.
- Diabetic neuropathy accounts for 31 of 150 studies (21%).
- Diabetes accounts for 14 of 150 studies (9%).
- Obesity accounts for 11 of 150 studies (7%).
- Sparse coverage remains for COVID-19, Erectile dysfunction (ED), Fibromyalgia.
Dietary Sources
Top dietary sources
Food sources
High amounts of alpha-lipoic acid are found in common foods.
Sources include Beets, Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Organ meats (liver), Peas, Potatoes, Rice bran, Spinach, Tomatoes, and Yams.
Safety
Alpha-lipoic acid is generally safe and well tolerated but may cause gastrointestinal upset, rash and headache.
Frequently Asked Questions
References
Sources150 references
SupplementDEX uses only high-quality sources to determine supplement effectiveness.
SupplementDEX Database · Diabetic neuropathy
31 references1.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Disease-modifying therapies for diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials2024
Meta-analysis of 9 RCTs in 1153 patients found triple therapy including ALA more effective than mono or dual therapy for diabetic peripheral neuropathy without more adverse events.
2.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Ranking Alpha Lipoic Acid and Gamma Linolenic Acid in Terms of Efficacy and Safety in the Management of Adults With Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis2024
Network meta-analysis ranked ALA 600 mg/day and GLA as safe options that improved neuropathy total symptom scores versus placebo in diabetic neuropathy.
3.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Alpha-lipoic acid for diabetic peripheral neuropathy2024
Cochrane review of 3 RCTs in 816 patients over 6-48 months found oral ALA probably has little or no effect on neuropathy symptoms at 6 months versus placebo.
4.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Effectiveness of alpha-lipoic acid in patients with neuropathic pain associated with type I and type II diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis2023
Meta-analysis found ALA did not produce statistically significant improvements on neuropathy pain or functional scales versus placebo across included trials.
5.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Effects of Oral Alpha-Lipoic Acid Treatment on Diabetic Polyneuropathy: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review2023
A meta-analysis of ten RCTs including 1242 diabetic polyneuropathy patients found that ALA (600-1800 mg per day) was beneficial for reducing total symptoms score as well as individual symptoms including the severity and frequency of sensory symptoms compared to placebo. A higher dose (1800 mg) was more effective for reducing symptoms compared to lower doses (600 mg, 1200 mg).
7.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Effect of alpha-lipoic acid on arterial stiffness parameters in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with cardiac autonomic neuropathy2021
3-month study in 36 type 2 diabetics with cardiac autonomic neuropathy given 600 mg/day ALA improved insulin resistance and arterial stiffness measures versus usual care.
8.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Oral Alpha Lipoic Acid Treatment for Symptomatic Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Study2020
6-month RCT in 100 diabetic peripheral neuropathy patients given 600 mg ALA twice daily improved neuropathy symptom, disability, pain, and vibration scores versus placebo with mild nausea only.
9.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Effects of High-Dose α-Lipoic Acid on Heart Rate Variability of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients with Cardiac Autonomic Neuropathy in Korea2017
24-week RCT in 75 diabetics with cardiac autonomic neuropathy found high-dose oral ALA was well tolerated but did not significantly change heart rate variability versus placebo.
10.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Meta-analysis of methylcobalamin alone and in combination with lipoic acid in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy2013
Meta-analysis found lipoic acid plus methylcobalamin for 2-4 weeks improved nerve conduction and symptoms versus methylcobalamin alone in diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
11.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — A systematic review and meta-analysis of α-lipoic acid in the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathy2012
Meta-analysis of IV ALA 300-600 mg/day for 2-4 weeks in diabetic peripheral neuropathy found improved nerve conduction velocities and symptom efficacy versus control, with good safety.
12.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Combination of alpha lipoic acid and superoxide dismutase leads to physiological and symptomatic improvements in diabetic neuropathy2012
4-month open-label study in 50 diabetic neuropathy patients found ALA plus SOD improved nerve conduction and pain versus baseline.
13.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Efficacy and safety of antioxidant treatment with α-lipoic acid over 4 years in diabetic polyneuropathy: the NATHAN 1 trial2011
4-year NATHAN 1 RCT in 460 mild-moderate diabetic polyneuropathy patients given 600 mg/day ALA found no primary endpoint difference but clinically meaningful improvement in neuropathy impairment versus placebo.
14.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — [Efficacy and safety of high-dose α-lipoic acid in the treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy]2010
A 12-week RCT in 236 diabetics with polyneuropathy found that oral alpha-lipoic acid 1800 mg/day improved total symptom score and individual neuropathic symptoms versus placebo, though nerve conduction velocity did not change.
15.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — [Long-term effect of 3-week intravenous alpha-lipoic acid administration in symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy with clinical manifestations]2010
In symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy, 3 weeks of IV alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day reduced neuropathic symptom and deficit scores, with symptom relief persisting up to 6 months after treatment ended.
16.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — [Structural and functional condition of the left ventricle in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus complicated with diabetic autonomic neuropathy]2009
In 82 type 2 diabetes patients with cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy, adding alpha-lipoic acid to complex treatment improved left ventricular diastolic function and myocardial electrophysiology versus baseline.
17.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — [Effect of alpha-lipoic acid and mexidol on neuro- and the affective status in patients at early stages of diabetic foot syndrome]2008
Over 14 days in early diabetic foot syndrome, alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day and mexidol 300 mg/day each reduced distal polyneuropathy symptom scores; mexidol was more effective for spasms and paresthesia.
18.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — The role of alpha-lipoic acid in diabetic polyneuropathy treatment2008
A multicenter study of 100 diabetics with polyneuropathy given IV alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day for 3 weeks then 300–600 mg/day orally for 3 months reported significant improvement in sensory and pain symptoms in 99 of 100 patients.
19.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — [Curative effect of alpha-lipoic acid on peripheral neuropathy in type 2 diabetes: a clinical study]2007
In 95 type 2 diabetes patients with peripheral neuropathy, IV alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day for 14 days reduced total symptom score within 1 week and improved symptom scores and MNSI versus radix salviae control (90% vs 14% satisfaction).
20.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Oral treatment with alpha-lipoic acid improves symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy: the SYDNEY 2 trial2006
The SYDNEY 2 trial in 181 diabetics with distal symmetric polyneuropathy found that oral alpha-lipoic acid 600–1800 mg/day for 5 weeks dose-dependently improved total symptom score and neuropathic deficits versus placebo.
21.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Treatment of symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy with the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid: a meta-analysis2004
A meta-analysis of 4 IV trials (n=1258) found that alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day for 3 weeks significantly improved total symptom score (24% vs placebo) and neuropathic deficits, with 53% vs 37% responder rates.
22.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Alpha-lipoic acid in the treatment of autonomic diabetic neuropathy (controlled, randomized, open-label study)2004
In 46 type 1 diabetics with autonomic neuropathy, 10 days IV then 50 days oral alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day improved cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy scores and oxidative stress markers versus untreated controls.
23.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — The sensory symptoms of diabetic polyneuropathy are improved with alpha-lipoic acid: the SYDNEY trial2003
The SYDNEY trial in 120 diabetics with sensorimotor polyneuropathy found that IV racemic alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg daily for 14 treatments improved total symptom score by 5.7 vs 1.8 points with placebo.
24.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Effects of alpha-lipoic acid on microcirculation in patients with peripheral diabetic neuropathy2000
In diabetics with peripheral neuropathy, oral alpha-lipoic acid 1200 mg/day for 6 weeks and IV 600 mg acutely both shortened time to peak capillary blood flow during postocclusive hyperemia, suggesting improved microcirculation.
25.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy with the antioxidant thioctic acid (alpha-lipoic acid): a two year multicenter randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial (ALADIN II)1999
The 2-year ALADIN II trial in 65 diabetics with polyneuropathy found that IV then oral thioctic acid improved sural sensory nerve conduction velocity versus placebo after 24 months, with no significant NDS change.
26.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Treatment of symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy with the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid: a 7-month multicenter randomized controlled trial (ALADIN III Study)1999
In 509 type 2 diabetics, 3-week IV alpha-lipoic acid followed by 6 months oral 600 mg three times daily did not meaningfully improve neuropathic symptoms versus placebo at 7 months, though neuropathic deficits showed a modest benefit.
27.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Effects of 3-week oral treatment with the antioxidant thioctic acid (alpha-lipoic acid) in symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy1999
In 24 type 2 diabetics with polyneuropathy, oral thioctic acid 600 mg three times daily for 3 weeks reduced total symptom score 47% vs 24% with placebo and improved neuropathy disability score.
28.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Effects of treatment with the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid on cardiac autonomic neuropathy in NIDDM patients. A 4-month randomized controlled multicenter trial (DEKAN Study)1997
The DEKAN trial in 73 type 2 diabetics with cardiac autonomic neuropathy found that oral alpha-lipoic acid 800 mg/day for 4 months modestly improved heart rate variability (RMSSD and LF power) versus placebo, without symptom differences.
29.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Treatment of symptomatic diabetic peripheral neuropathy with the anti-oxidant alpha-lipoic acid. A 3-week multicentre randomized controlled trial (ALADIN Study)1995
The ALADIN trial in 328 NIDDM patients found that IV alpha-lipoic acid 600–1200 mg/day for 3 weeks significantly reduced neuropathic symptom scores versus placebo, with 83% responder rate at 600 mg/day.
30.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — [Drug treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy with alpha-lipoic acid or vitamin B preparations. A clinical and neurophysiologic study]1988
A clinical and neurophysiologic comparison of alpha-lipoic acid versus vitamin B preparations for diabetic polyneuropathy; the abstract provides no extractable outcome data.
31.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — Efficacy of thioctic acid in the therapy of peripheral diabetic neuropathy1980
In 20 diabetics with peripheral neuropathy, 21 days of oral or IV thioctic acid did not improve nerve conduction or vibration sense, but IV treatment distinctly improved subjective neuropathic complaints.
6.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic neuropathy — A Pilot Study Suggesting Several Benefits of Alpha Lipoic Acid in Patients with Diabetes
A pilot study title suggests several metabolic and vascular benefits of alpha-lipoic acid in diabetes, but the available abstract contains no outcome data.
SupplementDEX Database · Hyperlipidemia
5 references32.SupplementDEX Database: Hyperlipidemia — Alpha-lipoic acid on intermediate disease markers in overweight or obese adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis2025
A meta-analysis of 11 RCTs in 704 overweight or obese adults found no significant associations between alpha-lipoic acid and changes in triglycerides, total or LDL cholesterol, HDL-C, HOMA-IR, or fasting glucose.
33.SupplementDEX Database: Hyperlipidemia — Alpha-lipoic acid supplementation affects serum lipids in a dose and duration-dependent manner in different health status2021
A meta-analysis of 12 RCTs (548 participants) found alpha-lipoic acid 300–1200 mg/day for 2–16 weeks significantly reduced total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.
34.SupplementDEX Database: Hyperlipidemia — Safety and Efficacy of Alpha Lipoic Acid During 4 Years of Observation: A Retrospective, Clinical Trial in Healthy Subjects in Primary Prevention2020
A 4-year observational study in 322 adults found chronic alpha-lipoic acid 800–1200 mg/day improved fasting glucose and lipid profiles versus baseline, with effects strongest at 1200 mg/day and well tolerated across doses.
35.SupplementDEX Database: Hyperlipidemia — Effect of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on the lipid profile and lipid ratios in women with gestational diabetes mellitus: A clinical trial study2020
8-week clinical trial in 60 gestational diabetes women given 100 mg/day ALA lowered triglycerides, TyG index, and atherogenic index versus placebo.
36.SupplementDEX Database: Hyperlipidemia — Does alpha-lipoic acid affect lipid profile? A meta-analysis and systematic review on randomized controlled trials2019
A meta-analysis of 11 RCTs found alpha-lipoic acid significantly lowered total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol versus placebo, with triglyceride reductions in diabetic and non-diabetic subgroups.
SupplementDEX Database · Obesity
11 references37.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Prevention of Recurrent Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo: The Role of Combined Supplementation with Vitamin D and Antioxidants2022
In 128 high-recurrence BPPV patients, only those with low vitamin D receiving combined alpha-lipoic acid, carnosine, zinc, B vitamins, and vitamin D3 had significantly fewer relapses over 6 months.
38.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — The synergic effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation and electrical isotonic contraction on anthropometric measurements and the serum levels of VEGF, NO, sirtuin-1, and PGC1-α in obese people undergoing a weight loss diet2022
In 100 obese adults over 8 weeks, alpha-lipoic acid 1200 mg/day combined with Faradic electrical stimulation produced the greatest reductions in weight, BMI, body fat, and waist circumference versus either alone or control.
39.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Alpha-lipoic acid supplementation significantly reduces the risk of obesity in an updated systematic review and dose response meta-analysis of randomised placebo-controlled clinical trials2020
A dose-response meta-analysis of obesity trials found alpha-lipoic acid significantly reduced weight and BMI but not waist circumference overall; longer duration may matter for central adiposity, especially in women.
40.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Effects of alpha lipoic acid as a supplement in obese children and adolescents2020
A meta-analysis including 80 obese children and adolescents found that ALA (300 mg twice per day for 3 months) led to a significant reduction in weight, BMI, mallondialdyhyde, tumor necrosis factor alpha and leptin levels, but a significant increase in adiponectin level. There was no effect on fasting blood glucose or lipid profile.
41.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — A Randomized Controlled Trial of Long-Term (R)-α-Lipoic Acid Supplementation Promotes Weight Loss in Overweight or Obese Adults without Altering Baseline Elevated Plasma Triglyceride Concentrations2020
In 81 overweight adults with elevated triglycerides, (R)-alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day for 24 weeks did not lower triglycerides but reduced BMI, body fat (especially in women and obese participants), and oxidative stress markers.
42.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — The effect of alpha-lipoic acid on inflammatory markers and body composition in obese patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial2019
In 45 obese NAFLD patients, alpha-lipoic acid 1200 mg/day plus vitamin E for 12 weeks raised adiponectin and lowered IL-6 versus placebo, but both groups improved steatosis grade similarly.
43.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Effect of Alpha-Lipoic Acid Supplementation on Endothelial Function and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Overweight/Obese Youths: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Randomized Trial2019
In 64 overweight youths, 3 months of alpha-lipoic acid did not change flow-mediated dilation but increased basal and peak brachial artery diameter versus placebo, without metabolic or anthropometric changes.
44.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Alpha-lipoic acid supplement in obesity treatment: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials2017
A meta-analysis of 12 trials found alpha-lipoic acid modestly reduced body weight by 0.69 kg and BMI by 0.38 kg/m² versus placebo, with no significant effect on waist circumference overall.
45.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) as a supplementation for weight loss: results from a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials2017
A meta-analysis of 10 RCTs found alpha-lipoic acid produced 1.27 kg greater weight loss and 0.43 kg/m² lower BMI versus placebo, with effects not clearly dose-dependent.
46.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Effects of oral α-lipoic acid administration on body weight in overweight or obese subjects: a crossover randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial2017
In 103 overweight Chinese adults, crossover treatment with alpha-lipoic acid 1200 mg/day for 8 weeks significantly improved body weight and waist circumference versus placebo, though absolute weight loss was modest.
47.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Effects of alpha-lipoic acid on body weight in obese subjects2011
In 360 obese adults over 20 weeks, alpha-lipoic acid 1800 mg/day led to 2.1% greater weight loss than placebo; 1200 mg/day did not reach significance.
48.SupplementDEX Database: Alcohol-associated liver disease — Treatment of alcohol-related liver disease with thioctic acid: a six month randomised double-blind trial1982
6-month double-blind RCT in 40 alcohol-related liver disease patients given 300 mg/day thioctic acid found no liver outcome difference versus placebo, regardless of abstinence.
SupplementDEX Database · Altitude sickness
1 reference49.SupplementDEX Database: Altitude sickness — Oral antioxidant supplementation does not prevent acute mountain sickness: double blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial2009
Double-blind RCT at high altitude found antioxidant supplementation including 600 mg alpha-lipoic acid did not prevent acute mountain sickness versus placebo.
SupplementDEX Database · Diabetes
14 references50.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — Efficacy and safety of oral alpha-lipoic acid supplementation for type 2 diabetes management: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized trials2022
A meta-analysis of 16 studies including 1035 patients found that ALA (200-1200 mg/day for up to 1 year) did not lead to clinically significant changes in glycemic control, triglycerides or body weight. Despite improvements in some health markers, these changes were below minimal clinically important difference thresholds for all outcomes.
51.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — EFFECTS OF ALPHA-LIPOIC ACID ON GLYCEMIC STATUS IN 2 TYPE DIABETES PATIENTS WITH СHRONIC CORONARY SYNDROME2022
A clinical study including 80 people with type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease who suffered non-Q-myocardial infarction found that ALA (600 mg daily for 4 months) in addition to baseline therapy showed a moderate but significant effect on decreasing fasting glucose (-11.6%).
52.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — Effect of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on the lipid profile and lipid ratios in women with gestational diabetes mellitus: A clinical trial study2020
8-week clinical trial in 60 gestational diabetes women given 100 mg/day ALA lowered triglycerides, TyG index, and atherogenic index versus placebo.
53.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — Alpha-lipoic acid improves subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in asymptomatic patients with type 1 diabetes2013
A study including 30 type 1 diabetes patients (aged 10-14) given either insulin or insulin plus ALA found that the insulin + ALA group experienced significantly increased glutathione levels and decreased malondialdhyde, nitric oxide, TNF-alpha, Fas ligand, matrix metalloproteinase 2 and troponin-I levels compared to only insulin. Patients were given 300 mg ALA twice daily, leading to improved left ventricular systolic and diastolic function. ALA may reduce the risk of developing diabetic cardiomyopathy in patients with type 1 diabetes.
54.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — Short-term continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion combined with insulin sensitizers rosiglitazone, metformin, or antioxidant α-lipoic acid in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus2013
3-month RCT in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes found insulin infusion plus metformin or rosiglitazone beat insulin alone for glycemic remission; ALA add-on showed no extra benefit.
55.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — Glycemic and oxidative status of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus following oral administration of alpha-lipoic acid: a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled study2012
6-month dose-ranging RCT in type 2 diabetes found ALA trended to lower fasting glucose and HbA1c dose-dependently and reduced urinary F2-isoprostanes versus placebo.
56.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — Effect of alpha-lipoic acid on blood glucose, insulin resistance and glutathione peroxidase of type 2 diabetic patients2011
8-week RCT in 57 type 2 diabetics given 300 mg/day ALA significantly lowered fasting and postprandial glucose and insulin resistance versus placebo.
57.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — The effects of lipoic acid and α-tocopherol supplementation on the lipid profile and insulin sensitivity of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial2011
4-month RCT in 102 type 2 diabetics found LA and vitamin E, alone or combined, did not significantly change lipids or insulin sensitivity despite improved vitamin E/cholesterol ratio.
60.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — alpha-Lipoic acid treatment decreases serum lactate and pyruvate concentrations and improves glucose effectiveness in lean and obese patients with type 2 diabetes1999
4-week study in 20 type 2 diabetics given 1200 mg/day LA increased glucose effectiveness and lowered lactate and pyruvate after glucose loading in lean and obese patients.
61.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — Oral administration of RAC-alpha-lipoic acid modulates insulin sensitivity in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: a placebo-controlled pilot trial1999
4-week multicenter RCT in 74 type 2 diabetics found oral ALA increased insulin-stimulated glucose disposal by 27% versus placebo across doses.
62.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — Improvement of insulin-stimulated glucose-disposal in type 2 diabetes after repeated parenteral administration of thioctic acid1996
10-day IV thioctic acid in 20 type 2 diabetics increased insulin-stimulated glucose disposal by about 30% versus baseline in an uncontrolled pilot trial.
63.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — Enhancement of glucose disposal in patients with type 2 diabetes by alpha-lipoic acid1995
Acute IV ALA at 1000 mg in 7 type 2 diabetic patients raised insulin-stimulated glucose clearance about 50% versus no change on vehicle in a small controlled study.
58.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetes — [Comparative study of alpha-lipoic acid and mexidol effects on affective status, cognitive functions and quality of life in diabetes mellitus patients]
2-week RCT in diabetic patients found IV ALA at 600 mg/day and mexidol each lowered hyperglycemia and improved mood-related measures versus baseline.
59.The Effect of Alpha-Lipoic Acid on Blood Pressure in Type 2 Diabetics. See external sourceExternal source
64.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic retinopathy — Alpha-lipoic acid for the prevention of diabetic macular edema2011
In 235 type 2 diabetes patients followed 24 months, daily oral alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg did not prevent clinically significant macular edema versus placebo (26 vs 30 cases; HR 0.91, p=0.71).
65.SupplementDEX Database: Hypertriglyceridemia (High triglyceride levels) — A Randomized Controlled Trial of Long-Term (R)-α-Lipoic Acid Supplementation Promotes Weight Loss in Overweight or Obese Adults without Altering Baseline Elevated Plasma Triglyceride Concentrations2020
In 81 overweight adults with elevated triglycerides, (R)-alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day for 24 weeks did not lower triglycerides but reduced BMI, body fat (especially in women and obese participants), and oxidative stress markers.
66.SupplementDEX Database: Hypertriglyceridemia (High triglyceride levels) — Effect of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on the lipid profile and lipid ratios in women with gestational diabetes mellitus: A clinical trial study2020
8-week clinical trial in 60 gestational diabetes women given 100 mg/day ALA lowered triglycerides, TyG index, and atherogenic index versus placebo.
67.SupplementDEX Database: Hypertriglyceridemia (High triglyceride levels) — Does alpha-lipoic acid affect lipid profile? A meta-analysis and systematic review on randomized controlled trials2019
A meta-analysis of 11 RCTs found alpha-lipoic acid significantly lowered total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol versus placebo, with triglyceride reductions in diabetic and non-diabetic subgroups.
68.SupplementDEX Database: Age-related cognitive decline — Cognitive and Mood Effect of Alpha-Lipoic Acid Supplementation in a Nonclinical Elder Sample: An Open-Label Pilot Study2023
12-week open-label pilot in older adults given 600 mg/day ALA found no significant cognitive or mood improvements; one dropout for GI side effects.
SupplementDEX Database · Aging skin
1 reference69.SupplementDEX Database: Aging skin — Randomized, placebo-controlled, double blind study on the clinical efficacy of a cream containing 5% alpha-lipoic acid related to photoageing of facial skin2003
12-week double-blind RCT found 5% alpha-lipoic acid cream reduced facial photoaging roughness more than placebo on multiple assessment methods.
SupplementDEX Database · Alzheimer's disease
4 references70.SupplementDEX Database: Alzheimer's disease — Antioxidants for Alzheimer disease: a randomized clinical trial with cerebrospinal fluid biomarker measures2012
16-week RCT in 78 mild-to-moderate Alzheimer patients given 900 mg/day ALA with vitamins found antioxidants did not change CSF amyloid or tau markers and coincided with faster MMSE decline.
71.SupplementDEX Database: Alzheimer's disease — Down syndrome and dementia: a randomized, controlled trial of antioxidant supplementation2011
2-year RCT in 53 Down syndrome adults with dementia given 600 mg/day ALA plus vitamins found no cognitive stabilization versus placebo, though supplementation was safe.
72.SupplementDEX Database: Alzheimer's disease — Alpha-lipoic acid as a new treatment option for Alzheimer's disease--a 48 months follow-up analysis2007
Open-label follow-up of 43 Alzheimer patients on 600 mg/day ALA plus cholinesterase inhibitors suggested slower cognitive decline over up to 48 months versus typical progression rates.
73.SupplementDEX Database: Alzheimer's disease — Alpha-lipoic acid as a new treatment option for Alzheimer [corrected] type dementia2001
Open-label study of 9 dementia patients on 600 mg/day ALA for about 11 months reported stabilized MMSE and ADAScog scores, suggesting possible neuroprotective benefit needing confirmation.
SupplementDEX Database · Back Pain
1 reference74.SupplementDEX Database: Back Pain — New Approach to Chronic Back Pain Treatment: A Case Control Study2022
A low-quality study including adults with chronic lower back pain found that ALA (800 mg/day) in combination with palmitoylethanolamide, myrrh and periradicular infiltrations of oxygen-ozone under CT guide may lead to a greater frequency of pain resolution compared with periradicular steroidal infiltrations.
SupplementDEX Database · Beta-thalassemia
1 reference75.SupplementDEX Database: Beta-thalassemia — Effects of alpha lipoic acid on iron overload, lipid profile and oxidative stress indices in β-thalassemia major patients: A cross-over randomised controlled clinical trial2021
8-week cross-over RCT in 26 beta-thalassemia major patients given 600 mg/day ALA lowered serum ferritin and malondialdehyde and raised HDL versus placebo, especially in women.
SupplementDEX Database · Burning mouth syndrome
10 references76.SupplementDEX Database: Burning mouth syndrome — The efficacy of alpha-lipoic acid in the management of burning mouth syndrome: An updated systematic review of randomized controlled clinical trials2023
Systematic review of 9 burning mouth syndrome RCTs given 600-800 mg/day ALA found most studies favored ALA over placebo, though more research is needed before first-line use.
77.SupplementDEX Database: Burning mouth syndrome — Efficacy of alpha-lipoic acid in patients with burning mouth syndrome compared to that of placebo or other interventions: a systematic review with meta-analyses2022
Meta-analysis of 9 burning mouth syndrome RCTs in 594 patients found ALA did not significantly reduce VAS pain versus placebo, though patients were more likely to report symptom improvement.
78.SupplementDEX Database: Burning mouth syndrome — Combination of alpha lipoic acid and gabapentin, its efficacy in the treatment of Burning Mouth Syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial2011
RCT in 120 burning mouth syndrome patients found ALA plus gabapentin gave best pain relief, with 70% improved, outperforming either drug alone or placebo.
79.SupplementDEX Database: Burning mouth syndrome — Different therapeutic strategies for burning mouth syndrome: preliminary data2010
60-day RCT in 56 burning mouth syndrome patients found capsaicin, ALA, and lysozyme-lactoperoxidase all reduced symptoms more than boric acid control during treatment.
80.SupplementDEX Database: Burning mouth syndrome — Lack of efficacy of alpha-lipoic acid in burning mouth syndrome: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study2009
8-week double-blind RCT in 66 burning mouth syndrome patients given 400 mg ALA found about 30% response in all groups with no significant benefit of ALA over placebo on pain scales.
81.SupplementDEX Database: Burning mouth syndrome — Efficacy of alpha lipoic acid in burning mouth syndrome: a randomized, placebo-treatment study2009
8-week RCT in 60 burning mouth syndrome women given 800 mg/day ALA found no significant pain reduction versus placebo on VAS scores.
82.SupplementDEX Database: Burning mouth syndrome — Alpha lipoic acid in burning mouth syndrome--a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial2009
Cross-over RCT in 38 burning mouth syndrome patients found both ALA and placebo cycles reduced burning, with no significant difference between treatments.
83.SupplementDEX Database: Burning mouth syndrome — Burning mouth syndrome: the efficacy of lipoic acid on subgroups2004
Subgroup analysis over 2 months suggested ALA helped burning mouth syndrome patients without prior tranquillizer use more than those previously treated with psychotropics.
84.SupplementDEX Database: Burning mouth syndrome — Burning Mouth Syndrome: open trial of psychotherapy alone, medication with alpha-lipoic acid (thioctic acid), and combination therapy2004
Open study of 192 burning mouth syndrome patients found combination psychotherapy plus 600 mg/day ALA gave greater symptom control than either treatment alone or placebo.
85.SupplementDEX Database: Burning mouth syndrome — Burning mouth syndrome (BMS): double blind controlled study of alpha-lipoic acid (thioctic acid) therapy2002
Double-blind RCT in 60 burning mouth syndrome patients found alpha-lipoic acid improved symptoms versus placebo, with most gaining relief by 2 months and over 70% maintaining benefit at 1 year.
SupplementDEX Database · Carpal tunnel syndrome
5 references86.SupplementDEX Database: Carpal tunnel syndrome — Efficacy of intravenous alpha lipoic acid in the treatment of neuropatic pain due to carpal tunnel syndrome2023
Study of 115 carpal tunnel syndrome patients found IV then oral ALA plus splint/physiotherapy lowered pain and Boston scores more at 1 and 3 months than oral ALA alone or no drug.
87.SupplementDEX Database: Carpal tunnel syndrome — Clinical usefulness of nutraceutics with acetyl-L-carnitine, α-lipoic acid, phosphatidylserine, curcumin, C, E and B-group vitamins in patients awaiting for carpal tunnel release during COVID-19 pandemic: a randomized controlled open label prospective study2023
An open-label RCT in 147 mild-to-moderate carpal tunnel patients awaiting surgery found a nutraceutical blend with acetyl-L-carnitine improved pain and symptom scores after 60 days, but not hand function.
88.SupplementDEX Database: Carpal tunnel syndrome — The Use of Alfa-Lipoic Acid-R (ALA-R) in Patients with Mild-Moderate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Randomised Controlled Open Label Prospective Study2020
60-day open-label RCT in 134 mild-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome patients given 600 mg/day ALA-R found significant pain reduction versus control, though surgery remains standard care.
89.SupplementDEX Database: Carpal tunnel syndrome — Alpha-lipoic Acid After Median Nerve Decompression at the Carpal Tunnel: A Randomized Controlled Trial2017
40-day postoperative RCT in 64 carpal tunnel syndrome patients found ALA did not improve nerve conduction or Boston scores but significantly reduced pillar pain incidence versus placebo.
90.SupplementDEX Database: Carpal tunnel syndrome — Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome with alpha-lipoic acid2009
90-day controlled trial in 112 carpal tunnel syndrome patients found ALA plus GLA improved symptoms and electrophysiology more than B vitamins alone.
SupplementDEX Database · Cervical dysplasia
1 reference91.SupplementDEX Database: Cervical dysplasia — Effect of Alpha-Lipoic Acid Supplementation on Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions-Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial2022
3-month double-blind RCT in 100 women with low-grade SIL given 600 mg/day ALA found ALA significantly reduced cytologic abnormalities versus placebo.
92.SupplementDEX Database: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy — EFFECTIVENESS OF ALPHA-LIPOIC ACID AND IPIDACRINE HYDROCHLORIDE IN PREVENTION OF PACLITAXEL-INDUCED PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY ASSESSED BY ELECTRONEUROMYOGRAPHY OF SUPERFICIAL PERONEAL AND SURAL NERVES2022
RCT in 100 breast cancer patients on paclitaxel found ALA plus ipidacrine preserved sensory nerve action potential amplitudes better after 3 and 6 chemotherapy cycles.
93.SupplementDEX Database: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy — Role of alpha-lipoic acid in counteracting paclitaxel- and doxorubicin-induced toxicities: a randomized controlled trial in breast cancer patients2022
6-month RCT in 64 breast cancer patients given 600 mg/day ALA found less paclitaxel neuropathy and lower BNP, TNF-alpha, and MDA versus placebo during chemotherapy.
94.SupplementDEX Database: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy — Use of an alpha lipoic, methylsulfonylmethane and bromelain dietary supplement (Opera®) for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy management, a prospective study2017
Prospective study of 25 chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy patients on Opera supplement including ALA reported reduced pain and neuropathy scores, though RCT confirmation is needed.
95.SupplementDEX Database: Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy — Oral alpha-lipoic acid to prevent chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial2014
24-week RCT of oral ALA at 600 mg three times daily during platinum chemotherapy found no significant neuropathy prevention versus placebo, with high dropout.
96.SupplementDEX Database: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) — α-lipoic acid in patients with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease2020
6-month trial in 59 ADPKD patients given 1.6 g/day ALA improved metabolic, inflammatory, vascular, and depression scores versus controls.
SupplementDEX Database · Chronic pain
1 reference97.SupplementDEX Database: Chronic pain — Safety and efficacy of alpha-lipoic acid oral supplementation in the reduction of pain with unknown etiology: A monocentric, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial2021
2-month RCT in 141 adults with idiopathic pain given 400 or 800 mg/day ALA found ALA reduced pain scores safely without hypoglycemia or liver or kidney toxicity.
SupplementDEX Database · COVID-19
2 references98.SupplementDEX Database: COVID-19 — Persistent COVID-19 parosmia and olfactory loss post olfactory training: randomized clinical trial comparing central and peripheral-acting therapeutics2024
6-month RCT in 85 post-COVID olfactory dysfunction patients found umPEALUT plus olfactory training improved smell scores; ALA plus training did not beat training alone.
99.SupplementDEX Database: COVID-19 — Alpha-lipoic acid does not improve olfactory training results in olfactory loss due to COVID-19: a double-blind randomized trial2023
12-week double-blind RCT in 100 post-COVID smell-loss patients found ALA plus olfactory training did not improve smell outcomes beyond training plus placebo.
SupplementDEX Database · Diabetic nephropathy
4 references100.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic nephropathy — Effects of valsartan combined with α-lipoic acid on renal function in patients with diabetic nephropathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis2021
Meta-analysis of 11 diabetic nephropathy trials in 1294 patients found valsartan plus ALA reduced urinary albumin and oxidative stress markers more than monotherapy.
101.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic nephropathy — Effects of Alpha-lipoic Acid Supplementation on Human Diabetic Nephropathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis2021
Meta-analysis of ALA for diabetic nephropathy found inconsistent albumin outcomes and concluded available human evidence is limited and should be interpreted cautiously.
102.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic nephropathy — Curative Effects of Valsartan Alone or Combined with Alpha-lipoic Acid on Inflammatory Cytokines and Renal Function in Early-stage Diabetic Kidney Disease2019
RCT in 102 early diabetic kidney disease patients found valsartan plus ALA lowered inflammatory markers and renal indices more than valsartan alone after 14 days.
103.SupplementDEX Database: Diabetic nephropathy — Clinical Efficacy of Alprostadil Combined with α-lipoic Acid in the Treatment of Elderly Patients with Diabetic Nephropathy2017
14-day study in 62 elderly diabetic nephropathy patients found alprostadil plus ALA lowered CysC, UAER, and inflammatory markers more than alprostadil alone.
SupplementDEX Database · Dry eye
1 reference104.SupplementDEX Database: Dry eye — Effects of the Topical Use of the Natural Antioxidant Alpha-Lipoic Acid on the Ocular Surface of Diabetic Patients with Dry Eye Symptoms2022
In 70 diabetic dry-eye patients, 2 months of topical 0.1% alpha-lipoic acid with HPMC improved tear break-up time, OSDI, corneal staining, and tear morphology more than HPMC alone.
SupplementDEX Database · Dysmenorrhea
1 reference105.SupplementDEX Database: Dysmenorrhea — Effect of alpha-lipoic acid at the combination with mefenamic acid in girls with primary dysmenorrhea: randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial2019
In 100 women with primary dysmenorrhea, alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day alone reduced menstrual pain more than mefenamic acid 250 mg/day, and the combination was most effective.
106.SupplementDEX Database: Erectile dysfunction (ED) — Positive effects of dietary supplementation with nutraceuticals on male subclinical hypogonadism: a pilot study2023
In 15 overweight men with subclinical hypogonadism, a nutraceutical containing myoinositol, alpha-lipoic acid, and folic acid added to lifestyle changes for 3 months improved BMI, insulin sensitivity, and testosterone versus baseline.
107.SupplementDEX Database: Erectile dysfunction (ED) — Study on the clinical value of alprostadil combined with α-lipoic acid in treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with erectile dysfunction2016
In 76 type 2 diabetes men with erectile dysfunction, 2 weeks of IV alprostadil plus alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day improved IIEF-5, erection hardness, and brachial flow-mediated dilation more than tadalafil 5 mg nightly (95% vs 81% effective).
SupplementDEX Database · Fibromyalgia
2 references108.SupplementDEX Database: Fibromyalgia — Combination analgesic development for enhanced clinical efficacy (the CADENCE trial): a double-blind, controlled trial of an alpha-lipoic acid-pregabalin combination for fibromyalgia pain2023
The CADENCE crossover trial in fibromyalgia found no significant difference in daily pain between alpha-lipoic acid, pregabalin, and their combination (4.9 vs 4.6 vs 4.5; p=0.54), though combination and pregabalin beat ALA alone on mood and sleep.
109.SupplementDEX Database: Fibromyalgia — Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial of alpha-lipoic acid for the treatment of fibromyalgia pain: the IMPALA trial2021
The IMPALA crossover trial in 27 fibromyalgia patients found no significant pain reduction with alpha-lipoic acid up to 1663 mg/day versus placebo; a post hoc analysis showed men but not women favored ALA.
SupplementDEX Database · Glaucoma
1 reference110.SupplementDEX Database: Glaucoma — Effect of an oral supplementation with a formula containing R-lipoic acid in glaucoma patients2020
In 30 glaucoma and control subjects given an antioxidant supplement with R-lipoic acid for 6 months, plasma antioxidant status rose and malondialdehyde fell in the POAG group, with improved Schirmer test and dry-eye symptoms.
SupplementDEX Database · Hemorrhoids
1 reference111.SupplementDEX Database: Hemorrhoids — Alpha Lipoic Acid Reduces Symptoms and Inflammation Biomarkers in Patients with Chronic Hemorrhoidal Illness2018
In 100 patients with grade II–III hemorrhoids, oral alpha-lipoic acid 200 mg/day for 12 weeks reduced pain, discomfort, and inflammatory markers versus no treatment in this open-label trial.
SupplementDEX Database · High blood pressure
2 references112.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — The effects of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) supplementation on blood pressure in adults: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials2023
A meta-analysis of 11 RCTs (674 adults) found alpha-lipoic acid supplementation significantly reduced systolic BP by 5.46 mmHg and diastolic BP, with effects at doses under 800 mg/day and durations up to 12 weeks.
113.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — The impact of lipoic acid on endothelial function and proteinuria in quinapril-treated diabetic patients with stage I hypertension: results from the QUALITY study2012
In 40 diabetic hypertensive patients on quinapril 40 mg/day, adding alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day for 8 weeks further reduced 24-hour urinary albumin 53% and improved flow-mediated dilation 116% versus quinapril alone.
SupplementDEX Database · Prediabetes
2 references114.SupplementDEX Database: Prediabetes — Safety and Efficacy of Alpha Lipoic Acid During 4 Years of Observation: A Retrospective, Clinical Trial in Healthy Subjects in Primary Prevention2020
A 4-year observational study in 322 adults found chronic alpha-lipoic acid 800–1200 mg/day improved fasting glucose and lipid profiles versus baseline, with effects strongest at 1200 mg/day and well tolerated across doses.
115.SupplementDEX Database: Prediabetes — Amelioration of lipid abnormalities by α-lipoic acid through antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects2011
In 13 of 22 obese adults with impaired glucose tolerance, 2 weeks of IV alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day improved insulin sensitivity 41% and lowered triglycerides, LDL, oxidized LDL, and inflammatory markers.
SupplementDEX Database · Male infertility
3 references116.SupplementDEX Database: Male infertility — Efficacy of Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplementation in Sperm Parameters: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials2025
A meta-analysis of 5 RCTs (250 infertile men) found alpha-lipoic acid improved sperm motility and reduced abnormal morphology over ~3 months but did not significantly change sperm concentration or pooled pregnancy rates.
117.SupplementDEX Database: Male infertility — Alpha-Lipoic Acid Ameliorates Sperm DNA Damage and Chromatin Integrity in Men with High DNA Damage: A Triple Blind Randomized Clinical Trial2022
In 63 infertile men with high sperm DNA fragmentation, 80 days of oral alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day significantly reduced DNA damage and chromatin defects and lowered seminal lipid peroxidation versus placebo.
118.SupplementDEX Database: Male infertility — Controlled, prospective, observational study on the efficiency and tolerability of a combination of potential Nrf2-inducing antioxidants and micronutrients as pre-treatment for ICSI in dyspermic patients with previous failure2017
In 59 dyspermic men pretreated 4 weeks with alpha-lipoic acid plus glutathione before ICSI, fertilization rate, embryo quality, implantation rate, and clinical pregnancy rose significantly versus prior IVF attempts.
SupplementDEX Database · Metabolic syndrome
1 reference119.SupplementDEX Database: Metabolic syndrome — Effects of alpha lipoic acid supplementation on serum lipid profile in patients with metabolic syndrome: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial2022
In 46 metabolic syndrome patients, 600 mg alpha-lipoic acid daily for 12 weeks significantly reduced triglycerides and total cholesterol versus placebo, without significant LDL or HDL changes.
SupplementDEX Database · Migraine headache
3 references120.SupplementDEX Database: Migraine headache — Effects of selected dietary supplements on migraine prophylaxis: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials2025
A meta-analysis of 22 migraine trials found alpha-lipoic acid reduced attack frequency by 1.24 and severity by 0.38 versus control, among several supplements showing prophylactic benefit.
121.SupplementDEX Database: Migraine headache — Evaluation of Safety and Efficacy of Add-on Alpha-Lipoic Acid on Migraine Prophylaxis in an Adolescent Population: A Randomized Controlled Trial2023
In adolescents with migraine, 12 weeks of add-on alpha-lipoic acid with flunarizine reduced monthly headache days by 7.7, raised responder rate to 80% vs 33%, and lowered serum CGRP versus flunarizine alone.
122.SupplementDEX Database: Migraine headache — Alpha-Lipoic Acid Shows Promise to Improve Migraine in Patients with Insulin Resistance: A 6-Month Exploratory Study2017
An exploratory study of 32 migraineurs with insulin resistance taking alpha-lipoic acid 400 mg twice daily for 6 months reported attack rates fell from ~11 to ~5 per month and treatment days decreased, without changes in insulin sensitivity indices.
123.SupplementDEX Database: Muscle mass & strength — The effects of alpha lipoic acid on muscle strength recovery after a single and a short-term chronic supplementation - a study in healthy well-trained individuals after intensive resistance and endurance training2020
In 17 trained athletes, short-term alpha-lipoic acid during intensive training reduced muscle damage markers and preserved back-squat performance versus placebo, without clear antioxidant effects.
SupplementDEX Database · Neck pain
1 reference124.SupplementDEX Database: Neck pain — α-Lipoic acid and superoxide dismutase in the management of chronic neck pain: a prospective randomized study2014
In 96 chronic neck pain patients, alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg plus SOD 140 IU daily with physiotherapy for 60 days gave greater VAS and questionnaire improvement at 60 days than physiotherapy alone.
125.SupplementDEX Database: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) — Clinical effectiveness of α-lipoic acid, myo-inositol and propolis supplementation on metabolic profiles and liver function in obese patients with NAFLD: A randomized controlled clinical trial2023
In 92 obese NAFLD patients over 8 weeks, alpha-lipoic acid supplementation ranked second after myo-inositol for reducing liver steatosis (NNT 2.2), though lipid and glycemic benefits varied by group.
126.SupplementDEX Database: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) — Oral α-lipoic acid supplementation in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: effects on adipokines and liver histology features2019
In 50 NAFLD patients, oral alpha-lipoic acid 1200 mg/day for 12 weeks improved insulin sensitivity, adiponectin, leptin, and liver steatosis versus placebo, without anthropometric or liver enzyme differences between groups.
127.SupplementDEX Database: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) — The effect of alpha-lipoic acid on inflammatory markers and body composition in obese patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial2019
In 45 obese NAFLD patients, alpha-lipoic acid 1200 mg/day plus vitamin E for 12 weeks raised adiponectin and lowered IL-6 versus placebo, but both groups improved steatosis grade similarly.
SupplementDEX Database · Oral health
1 reference128.SupplementDEX Database: Oral health — Effect of a multinutrient supplement as an adjunct to nonsurgical treatment of periodontitis: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial2024
In 42 periodontitis patients, a 2-month multinutrient supplement including alpha-lipoic acid as add-on to scaling showed some additional probing depth and bleeding-on-probing benefit versus placebo.
129.SupplementDEX Database: Orthostatic hypotension — (r)Alpha Lipoic Acid Is a Safe, Effective Pharmacologic Therapy of Chronic Orthostatic Hypotension Associated with Low Sympathetic Tone2019
In 89 patients with neurogenic orthostatic hypotension or intolerance, oral alpha-lipoic acid improved standing blood pressure responses in 66–67% over ~2 years of follow-up, with nausea in 5%.
SupplementDEX Database · Osteoarthritis
1 reference130.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoarthritis — Exploring the Efficacy of Alpha-Lipoic Acid in Comorbid Osteoarthritis and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus2024
In 37 patients with osteoarthritis plus type 2 diabetes, alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day for 6 weeks significantly improved WOMAC pain, Lequesne, and AIMS-P scores versus control.
131.SupplementDEX Database: Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) — Effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation in peripheral arterial disease: a pilot study2007
In 28 PAD patients over 3 months, alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day increased initial claudication time 34% and reduced peak claudication pain 93% within group, though between-group differences were not significant.
132.SupplementDEX Database: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — The effect of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on anthropometric, glycemic, lipid, oxidative stress, and hormonal parameters in individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials2024
A meta-analysis of 7 PCOS RCTs found alpha-lipoic acid significantly lowered fasting blood sugar and HOMA-IR versus control, without consistent effects on BMI, lipids, or sex hormones.
133.SupplementDEX Database: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — Alpha lipoic acid administration improved both peripheral sensitivity to insulin and liver clearance of insulin reducing potential risk of diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in overweight/obese PCOS patients2024
In 32 overweight/obese PCOS women, 12 weeks of alpha-lipoic acid 400 mg/day improved insulin sensitivity and lowered ALT/AST, with greater hepatic insulin clearance in those with familial diabetes risk.
134.SupplementDEX Database: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — Long-term treatment with α-lipoic acid and myo-inositol positively affects clinical and metabolic features of polycystic ovary syndrome2020
In 44 PCOS women, 24 months of alpha-lipoic acid 800 mg plus myo-inositol 2000 mg/day normalized menstrual cycles and improved insulin response to OGTT without changing testosterone or ovarian volume.
135.SupplementDEX Database: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — Clinical and Metabolic Effects of Alpha-Lipoic Acid Associated with Two Different Doses of Myo-Inositol in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome2020
In 88 PCOS women given alpha-lipoic acid 800 mg/day plus myo-inositol 1000 or 2000 mg/day for 6 months, 71% had improved menstrual regularity; higher myo-inositol dose yielded better cycle normalization.
136.SupplementDEX Database: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — Differential insulin response to oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in overweight/obese polycystic ovary syndrome patients undergoing to myo-inositol (MYO), alpha lipoic acid (ALA), or combination of both2019
In 76 overweight/obese PCOS women over 12 weeks, myo-inositol, alpha-lipoic acid 400 mg/day, or both improved hormonal and metabolic profiles, with combination therapy effective regardless of familial diabetes.
SupplementDEX Database · Preterm labor
1 reference137.SupplementDEX Database: Preterm labor — Vaginal alpha-lipoic acid shows an anti-inflammatory effect on the cervix, preventing its shortening after primary tocolysis. A pilot, randomized, placebo-controlled study2017
In 37 women at 24–30 weeks after preterm labor, vaginal alpha-lipoic acid 400 mg daily for 30 days raised anti-inflammatory cytokines and stabilized cervical length while placebo group cervical length shortened.
SupplementDEX Database · Schizophrenia
6 references138.SupplementDEX Database: Schizophrenia — α-Lipoic Acid as Adjunctive Treatment for Schizophrenia: A Randomized Double-Blind Study2023
A 16-week double-blind trial in schizophrenia found adjunctive alpha-lipoic acid 100 mg/day did not improve cognition, psychopathology, or oxidative markers versus placebo and was associated with reduced blood cell counts.
139.SupplementDEX Database: Schizophrenia — Alpha Lipoic Acid for Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis2023
A systematic review and meta-analysis of alpha-lipoic acid in schizophrenia; the available abstract contains no extractable outcome data.
140.SupplementDEX Database: Schizophrenia — Effect of add-on alpha lipoic acid on psychopathology in patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia: a pilot randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial2022
In 20 treatment-resistant schizophrenia patients over 8 weeks, add-on alpha-lipoic acid significantly improved SANS negative symptom scores versus placebo, without SAPS or oxidative marker differences.
141.SupplementDEX Database: Schizophrenia — Metabolic and clinical effect of alpha-lipoic acid administration in schizophrenic subjects stabilized with atypical antipsychotics: A 12-week, open-label, uncontrolled study2022
In 15 schizophrenia patients on atypical antipsychotics, 12 weeks of alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day lowered blood glucose, liver enzymes, prolactin, and QTc but raised HbA1c, without lipid or weight changes.
142.SupplementDEX Database: Schizophrenia — α-Lipoic Acid as Adjunctive Treatment for Schizophrenia: An Open-Label Trial2017
An open-label pilot in 10 schizophrenia patients given alpha-lipoic acid 100 mg/day for 4 months reported 64% reduction in BPRS scores and improved cognition and lipid peroxidation.
143.SupplementDEX Database: Schizophrenia — A randomized, controlled trial of omega-3 fatty acids plus an antioxidant for relapse prevention after antipsychotic discontinuation in first-episode schizophrenia2014
In 33 first-episode schizophrenia patients tapered off antipsychotics, omega-3 plus alpha-lipoic acid 300 mg/day did not delay relapse versus placebo (90% vs 75% relapsed; mean time ~39 weeks both groups).
SupplementDEX Database · Sciatica
2 references144.SupplementDEX Database: Sciatica — Oxygen-Ozone Therapy Associated with Alpha Lipoic Acid Plus Palmitoylethanolamide and Myrrh versus Ozone Therapy in the Combined Treatment of Sciatic Pain Due to Herniated Discs: Observational Study on 318 Patients2022
In 318 sciatica patients with disc herniation, combined oral alpha-lipoic acid, palmitoylethanolamide, and myrrh with ozone therapy yielded similar complete pain remission (~77%) to ozone alone (~76%) at 60 days.
145.SupplementDEX Database: Sciatica — Thioctic acid and acetyl-L-carnitine in the treatment of sciatic pain caused by a herniated disc: a randomized, double-blind, comparative study2008
An RCT in 64 sciatica patients found thioctic acid 600 mg/day produced greater symptom score improvements and reduced analgesic need more than acetyl-L-carnitine 1180 mg/day after 60 days.
SupplementDEX Database · Tinnitus
1 reference146.SupplementDEX Database: Tinnitus — The Effect of Alpha-Lipoic Acid in the Treatment of Chronic Subjective Tinnitus through the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory Scores2023
In 50 tinnitus patients, alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg/day for 2 months improved THI functional and emotional subscales and loudness in metabolic-syndrome-related tinnitus (group A) but not in acoustic nerve lesion cases.
SupplementDEX Database · Vertigo
1 reference147.SupplementDEX Database: Vertigo — Prevention of Recurrent Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo: The Role of Combined Supplementation with Vitamin D and Antioxidants2022
In 128 high-recurrence BPPV patients, only those with low vitamin D receiving combined alpha-lipoic acid, carnosine, zinc, B vitamins, and vitamin D3 had significantly fewer relapses over 6 months.
SupplementDEX Database · Vitiligo
2 references148.SupplementDEX Database: Vitiligo — Randomized clinical trial of combined therapy with oral α-lipoic acid and NB-UVB for nonsegmental stable vitiligo2021
In a 6-month RCT, oral alpha-lipoic acid 300 mg/day plus NB-UVB did not improve vitiligo repigmentation beyond phototherapy alone across age and sex subgroups.
149.SupplementDEX Database: Vitiligo — Antioxidants and narrow band-UVB in the treatment of vitiligo: a double-blind placebo controlled trial2007
In 28 vitiligo patients, antioxidant supplementation including alpha-lipoic acid before and during NB-UVB for 6 months raised repigmentation above 75% in 50% vs 18% on placebo and improved oxidative markers in blood cells.
SupplementDEX Database · Wound healing
1 reference150.SupplementDEX Database: Wound healing — alpha-Lipoic acid supplementation inhibits oxidative damage, accelerating chronic wound healing in patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy2005
In chronic wound patients on hyperbaric oxygen, alpha-lipoic acid supplementation reduced lipid and DNA oxidation, lowered IL-6, and appeared to support wound healing as an adjuvant therapy.