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Thioctic acid
Thioctic acid (alpha-lipoic acid) is an antioxidant that regenerates other antioxidants and improves mitochondrial energy metabolism.
Thioctic acid (alpha-lipoic acid) is an antioxidant that regenerates other antioxidants and improves mitochondrial energy metabolism. Used for Diabetic peripheral neuropathy, Diabetic autonomic neuropathy, Age-related cognitive decline.
At a glance
| Generic name | Thioctic acid |
|---|---|
| Also known as | alpha-lipocic acid |
| Sponsor | The Dana Foundation |
| Drug class | Antioxidant; mitochondrial cofactor |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Neurology; Endocrinology; Metabolic disorders |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Thioctic acid is a naturally occurring compound that acts as a cofactor for mitochondrial enzyme complexes involved in energy production. It functions as a potent antioxidant by scavenging free radicals and regenerating other antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, glutathione, and coenzyme Q10. This dual mechanism of improving cellular energy metabolism and reducing oxidative stress makes it useful in conditions characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative damage.
Approved indications
- Diabetic peripheral neuropathy
- Diabetic autonomic neuropathy
- Age-related cognitive decline
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Rash
- Headache
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:
- Thioctic acid CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Thioctic acid updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- The Dana Foundation portfolio CI