Alpha-Lipoic Acid
600 mg · Daily
Robert
Founder, F*CK Getting Old — independent researcher, not a medical professional.
Last reviewed · 1 cited source
Evidence
- Human Studies
- 80
- Animal Studies
- 60
- Clinical Status
- Dietary Supplement
- Confidence
- Moderate
- Long-Term Safety
- Well-established for the approved diabetic neuropathy use outside the US; general supplement use has a solid short/medium-term safety record
What this score is: a measure of how much research exists and how far along it is (animal-only vs. human trials, research-stage vs. FDA approved) — not how safe, effective, or worth trying a compound is. A low score usually means “early stage” or “understudied,” not “bad.” A high score doesn’t mean “better” for your goals than a lower-scored one.
This is not my personal rating of the compound, not a recommendation, and not medical advice. It’s a general research synthesis for informational purposes only, not a live literature count. See the linked research and talk to a licensed clinician before making decisions based on it.
Mechanism
Alpha-lipoic acid is a mitochondrial cofactor and antioxidant, unusual for being both fat- and water-soluble. It is used as a prescription drug in some countries (notably Germany) for diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and studied more broadly for glucose metabolism and oxidative stress.
Common Protocols
- 300–600 mg daily, often split into two doses
- Take on an empty stomach for better absorption, though this can increase GI upset for some
Side Effects
- GI upset, especially on an empty stomach
- Can lower blood sugar — monitor if also on diabetes medication
- Rare skin rash
Interactions
- Can have additive effects with diabetes medications, raising hypoglycemia risk
- May affect thyroid hormone levels — monitor if on thyroid medication
Practical Details
- Cost
- $
- Typical Dose
- 600 mg
- Storage
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from light
Key Studies & Reviews
- Ziegler D et al. (2004). Treatment of symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy with the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid: a meta-analysis. Diabet Med. PMID 14984445.
Search the Research
Alpha-Lipoic Acid FAQ
What is the typical Alpha-Lipoic Acid dosage?
Commonly reported protocols: 300–600 mg daily, often split into two doses; Take on an empty stomach for better absorption, though this can increase GI upset for some. Our reference entry uses 600 mg, Daily. These reflect protocols reported in research and user communities, not a medical recommendation — dosing should be decided with a clinician.
What are the side effects of Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Reported side effects include: GI upset, especially on an empty stomach; Can lower blood sugar — monitor if also on diabetes medication; Rare skin rash.
Is Alpha-Lipoic Acid FDA approved?
Alpha-Lipoic Acid is sold as a dietary supplement. The FDA does not approve supplements for safety or effectiveness before they are sold, so third-party tested brands are worth seeking out.
How much research is there on Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Our evidence profile counts roughly 80 human and 60 animal studies, with moderate overall confidence. Long-term safety: Well-established for the approved diabetic neuropathy use outside the US; general supplement use has a solid short/medium-term safety record.
Does Alpha-Lipoic Acid interact with other drugs or supplements?
Can have additive effects with diabetes medications, raising hypoglycemia risk; May affect thyroid hormone levels — monitor if on thyroid medication.
Related compounds
Antioxidant studied for glucose metabolism and nerve-related discomfort