¿What is Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Alpha-Lipoic Acid is an antioxidant, and is widely used in prevention of various diseases. Its main function is to increase production of glutathione, which helps dissolve toxic substances in the liver. An antioxidant helps neutralize free radicals in our bodies and protects our cells from damage. A free radical is an unstable molecule that tries to steal electrons from other molecules, thus causing damage. Smoking, pollution, car exhaust, fried foods are some sources of free radicals.
¿What is the most important information I should know about Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Alpha-Lipoic Acid, also known as lipoic acid is a powerful, natural antioxidant slowly becoming recognized as having some unique properties in the therapy and prevention of a broad range of diseases. In addition to being a powerful antioxidant, Alpha-Lipoic Acid helps the body use glucose, hence Alpha-Lipoic Acid's potential role in improving blood sugar control. Alpha-Lipoic Acid reduces complications from a high sugar diet. Lipoic acid is readily absorbed from the diet or as a supplement. Alpha-Lipoic Acid has a variety of benefits, particularly for diabetics.
¿What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, dietary supplements should be taken only under the supervision of a knowledgeable healthcare provider. This is especially true for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Skin rash has been reported rarely from alpha-lipoic acid. Finally, because alpha-lipoic acid has been associated with improved blood sugar control, people with diabetes should follow their blood sugar levels carefully when taking this supplement in order to avoid hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Your doctor may decide that a reduction in dosage of insulin or oral blood sugar-lowering drugs is needed if you are taking this supplement.
¿How should I take Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Alpha-lipoic acid can be purchased in dosages ranging 30 mg to 100 mg tablets. Currently there are no established recommended doses for supplementation. For general antioxidant support, the recommended dose of ALA is 20 mg to 50 mg per day. Manufacturers of alpha-lipoic acid suggest one or two 50-mg capsules daily as a dietary supplement. Studies that have been successful in improving nerve function in diabetics have used 600 mg of alpha-lipoic acid per day in divided doses.
¿What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
¿What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
¿What should I avoid while taking Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
People with a vitamin B12 deficiency should avoid Alpha-Lipoic Acid as its use may cause a worsening of symptoms. Pregnant or lactating women, diabetics, hypoglycemics, and people with known medical conditions and/or taking drugs should consult with a licensed physician and/or pharmacist prior to taking dietary supplements. Double safety sealed with an outer shrink wrap film and an inner bottle freshness seal. Do not use if either seal is broken or missing. Store in a cool, dry place. Alpha-Lipoic Acid side effects Side effects with Alpha-Lipoic Acid are rare but can include skin rash and the potential of hypoglycemia in diabetic patients. People who may be deficient in vitamin B1 (such as alcoholics) should take vitamin B1 along with Alpha-Lipoic Acid supplements. Chronic administration of Alpha-Lipoic Acid in animals has interfered with the actions of the vitamin, biotin. Whether this has significance for humans remains unknown.
¿What other drugs will affect Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Because there is some evidence that Alpha-Lipoic Acid supplementation improves insulin-mediated glucose utilization, it is possible that LA supplementation could increase the risk of hypoglycemia in diabetic patients using insulin or oral antidiabetic agents. Consequently, blood glucose levels should be monitored closely when Alpha-Lipoic Acid supplementation is added to diabetes treatment regimens. Co-administration of a single oral dose of racemic LA (600 mg) and the oral antidiabetic agents, glyburide or acarbose, did not result in any significant drug interactions in one study of 24 healthy volunteers.
¿Where can I get more information?
- Your pharmacist has information about Alpha-Lipoic Acid written for health professionals that you may read.
