Alpha-Lipoic Acid
R- or R/S-alpha-lipoic acid. Dietary Supplement, antioxidant.
This page describes what Alpha-Lipoic Acid is and its known risks. It is not medical advice and not a guide to using it. Many of these substances are prescription-only or illegal to use without a prescription. Speak to a doctor.
- Class
- Dietary Supplement
- Legal status
- Over-the-counter (unrestricted)
- Half-life
- ~30 minutes
- Liver strain
- None at typical doses
- Kidney strain
- None at typical doses
- Converts to estrogen
- None
- Suppresses natural hormones
- Not typically
Medical uses
- Diabetic nerve pain (prescription in some countries)
What it does in the body
Metabolic
- May improve insulin sensitivity
Neurological
- Used for diabetic nerve symptoms
Forms, half-life and detection
| Form | Half-life | Reported detection window |
|---|---|---|
| Oral (capsule) | ~30 minutes | N/A (not a banned substance) |
Side effects and health risks
Gastrointestinal
- Nausea
Metabolic
- Low blood sugar with diabetes medication
Related compounds
Questions
What is the half-life of Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
About ~30 minutes. Half-life is the time for the level in the blood to fall by half.
How long is Alpha-Lipoic Acid detectable?
Testing windows of N/A (not a banned substance) are reported, depending on the test and the person.
Is Alpha-Lipoic Acid legal?
Over-the-counter (unrestricted). Laws differ by country and change; check the rules where you live.
What blood tests matter with Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Ask a doctor which tests suit you.
What are the side effects of Alpha-Lipoic Acid?
Gastrointestinal: nausea. Metabolic: low blood sugar with diabetes medication.
For information only, not medical advice. MyoStats is a tracking tool used at your own discretion. Speak to a doctor before changing your training, diet, medication or anything you take.