Alpha Lipoic Acid for Neuropathy, Nerve Damage and Pain Review

The effectiveness of Alpha lipoic acid for neuropathy has been well-researched. Neuropathy refers to general dysfunction of the nerve and may be the result of nerve damage, impaired signal transmission, or decreased blood flow to the nerves.

Alpha lipoic acid, or ALA, is a fatty acid in mitochondria that exhibits antioxidant properties. This fatty acid is involved in energy production in cells and also affects the function of vitamins C and E in the body.

Alpha lipoic acid is produced in the body and can also be obtained through dietary sources, such as red meat, spinach, yeast and broccoli. This fatty acid helps reduce damage to cells caused by harmful substances called free radicals, which is associated with a number of health benefits.

The ability to limit damage caused by free radicals has led to the use of alpha lipoic acid for neuropathy. This fatty acid supplement has been used to manage peripheral neuropathy in Germany for many years, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. [1]

Alpha Lipoic Acid

Anti-Oxidant Supplement

Anti- Oxidant

Blood Sugar

Anti- Aging

How It Works:

• Neutralizes free radicals & oxidative damage
• Regulate blood glucoses levels
• Supports mitochondrial energy metabolism

Dosage:

Between 300 - 1,200 mg per day

Safety:

Generally Well Tolerated

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Causes and Symptoms of Neuropathy

Neuropathy refers to nerve damage that can occur with several conditions, such as diabetes, autoimmune disease, infections, trauma, medications and inherited disorders, according to the Mayo Clinic. [2]

Peripheral neuropathy affects the nerves in the peripheral nervous system, such as nerves in the hands and feet. Diabetic neuropathy occurs when high blood sugar levels damage nerve fibers in those with diabetes.

Peripheral neuropathy affects roughly 20 million people in the U.S., according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. [3]

About half of people in the U.S. with diabetes have some type of neuropathy, according to the American Diabetes Association. [4] Different types of neuropathy that affect people with diabetes include peripheral neuropathy, autonomic neuropathy and compression neuropathy.

Symptoms of neuropathy differ depending on the type an individual has. Some symptoms include tingling and numbness in the affected parts of the body, a burning sensation, throbbing or sharp pain, increased sensitivity to touch, muscle weakness and a loss of coordination.

Neuropathy can affect one nerve, two or more nerves in more than one area or several nerves.

Some of the most common types of neuropathy include:

• Peripheral Neuropathy
• Proximal Neuropathy
• Cranial Neuropathy
• Optic Neuropathy
• Auditory Neuropathy
• Autonomic Neuropathy
• Focal Neuropathy
• Autoimmune Neuropathy
• Diabetic Neuropathy
• Post-Herpetic Neuropathy
• Alcoholic Neuropathy
• Idiopathic Neuropathy

Effects of Alpha Lipoic Acid for Neuropathy

Alpha lipoic acid’s ability to reduce cell damage caused by free radicals might help manage nerve damage in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. [1]

Alpha lipoic acid is considered possibly effective for peripheral neuropathy in diabetic patients, according to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database.

Oral or intravenous use of alpha lipoic acid seemed to improve certain symptoms, including numbness, burning and pain in the feet and legs. [5]

A 2010 study published in the Netherlands Journal of Medicine showed that alpha lipoic acid given orally or intravenously in doses of 600 MG per day reduced neuropathic symptoms in diabetic patients by 50 percent. [6]

Alpha lipoic acid might also be effective at helping those with autonomic neuropathy, a condition in which damage occurs to nerves in internal organs.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, one study showed that patients with cardiac autonomic neuropathy reported fewer symptoms after taking 800 MG per dose. [1]

How to Take Alpha Lipoic Acid for Neuropathy

There is no standard dosage protocol of alpha lipoic acid for neuropathy.

According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, oral forms of alpa lipoic acid ranging from 600 MG to 1,800 MG in divided doses have been given to subjects in clinical trials for 19 days to four years.

Doses of up to 1,800 MG have been given to subjects with neuropathy for up to two years after undergoing intravenous treatment. [5]

Alpha lipoic acid is available in different forms for oral supplementation, including capsules, powder, softgels and tablets. Doses on these products vary. Some offer 250 MG per dose, while others offer 600 MG per dose.

Those who are considering taking alpha lipoic acid for neuropathy pain or other symptoms should consult their doctor first. Dosage recommendations vary depending on different factors, such as age, health and underlying medical conditions.

Consumers can purchase alpha lipoic acid supplements from online retailers, including Amazon, Vitamin Shoppe and GNC. These products are also available at local stores that sell supplements and other wellness products.

Side Effects of Alpha Lipoic Acid Pills

Using Alpha lipoic acid for neuropathy is generally considered well-tolerated. Side effects that occur in some individuals are typically mild and include vomiting, nausea and vertigo.

However, the NMCD states that these side effects, which have been reported in clinical trials, occur more often with doses of 600 MG or more, such as 1,200 MG and 1,800 MG. [5]

Those who take drugs for diabetes should not take alpha lipoic acid supplements without talking to their doctor. These supplements have the potential to interact with these drugs and cause blood sugar levels to decrease rapidly.

Certain herbs and supplements might also have similar hypoglycemic effects when taken with ALA, such as fenugreek, Panax ginseng, psyllium and garlic.

Alpha lipoic acid supplements also have the potential to interact with thyroid hormones and chemotherapy. These supplements might decrease the effects of these drugs.

Those who take thyroid hormones or chemotherapy drugs should consult their doctor before using this dietary supplement for peripheral neuropathy or other types of neuropathy.

There is not enough information on the safety of alpha lipoic acid supplements for pregnancy or lactation. Women who are pregnant or nursing should avoid using is product, according to the NMCD. [5]

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