Last reviewed · How we verify
Alpha-lipoic acid
Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that regenerates other antioxidants and modulates cellular energy metabolism by acting as a cofactor for mitochondrial enzyme complexes.
Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that regenerates other antioxidants and modulates cellular energy metabolism by acting as a cofactor for mitochondrial enzyme complexes. Used for Diabetic peripheral neuropathy, Diabetic complications, Oxidative stress-related conditions.
At a glance
| Generic name | Alpha-lipoic acid |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Thioctic acid, lipoic acid, Thioctic Acid |
| Sponsor | Nucleo De Pesquisa E Desenvolvimento De Medicamentos Da Universidade Federal Do Ceara |
| Drug class | Antioxidant / Mitochondrial cofactor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Metabolic / Endocrinology |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) functions as a cofactor for pyruvate dehydrogenase and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase complexes in mitochondrial energy production. It also acts as a free radical scavenger and can regenerate endogenous antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, glutathione, and coenzyme Q10, thereby reducing oxidative stress in tissues.
Approved indications
- Diabetic peripheral neuropathy
- Diabetic complications
- Oxidative stress-related conditions
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Rash
Key clinical trials
- Trial of the Combination of Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Mirabegron in Women and in Men With Obesity (PHASE2)
- Alpha Lipoic Acid to Decrease Pain and Side Effects in Concurrent Treatment of HNSCC (PHASE1)
- Examining the Impact of Exercise Training on Vascular Dysfunction in Individuals With Mental Health Disorders - Study 1 (NA)
- Alpha Lipoic Acid Plus Coenzyme Q10 Versus Coenzyme Q10 Alone in Asthenozoospermia (NA)
- Effect of Low-Dose Versus High-Dose Alpha-Lipoic Acid on Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Clinical Outcomes in Acute Exacerbations of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (PHASE3)
- Alpha Lipoic Acid in Pediatrics on Hemodialysis (PHASE3)
- Hunger Perception and Weight-Related Outcomes Following Use of a Leptin-Supporting Dietary Supplement (NA)
- Efficacy and Safety of N-Acetylcysteine Versus Alpha-Lipoic Acid in Colistin-Induced Nephrotoxicity (PHASE2, PHASE3)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape: