Alpha lipoic acid for Neuropathy

Both my husband and I take ALA, as per an incredible rheumatologist that we had (who retired, unfortunately for us!). We've been taking ALA for over 10-12 yrs now, and while we both still experience neuropathy (for our distinctive reasons), we cannot imagine --- and don't want to either!---what our lives would be like without the supplement. (We're both 75). Neither of us (especially me) do well with pain meds (like gabapentin, which for me induces hallucinations and inability to function) and will not take Cymbalta, Lyrica, etc, as has been the answer from several neurologists. Uh-uh! So we stick with ALA, religiously. Does it make neuropathic pain disappear? Of course not, but in combination with our diet choices, lifestyle changes, and inclusion of other specific supplements, both of us manage. There is NO "cure-all" on the market. We do not expect to ever be free from the nasties created by peripheral neuropathy, so we do the best we can for ourselves, accepting that some days are better than others, and granting ourselves the freedom to listen to our bodies, resting and even napping as needed.
I hope you can come to terms with what your body is going through, and that you can find what helps you best.

I’m a lucky guy. I have had PN for years. I have the tingling and numbness along with weakness in both legs but zero pain. I do take ALA . My ALA started after I developed type 2 diabetes. Best wishes to everyone out there.

Would you please relate the level of alpha lipoic acid you take and any other helpful supplements with amounts.

I too can’t take gabapentin or antidepressants and am struggling to stay with supplements. This would be so helpful. I take R-alpha lipoic acid at 600 mg, 2 grams of omega 3 fatty acids 500 mg of curcumin. Multivitamin and d3.

Thank you in advance.

I came across your posting and I want to re-try ALA but I am hesitant because last time I tried it I had to give it up due to it giving me stomach upset. Have you any advice.

Try taking the pill in the middle of your breakfast and again at supper time. Good luck

Always take any supplements with food!! Start with low dose of maybe 200-300 mg. If that upsets you, try another brand because it is a very helpful supplement. If you are OK with 200-300 mg, work up to 600 mg daily with a good meal. Some people take up to 1000mg a day, but R-Alpha Lipoic Acid can have side effects like insomnia and upset stomach, so I would personally stay at 600mg or a bit less. I have taken 600 mg (2x300mg pills) a day for two years without any issues.

What symptoms improved from taking Alpha liporic acid? How long did it take to show improvement? What is the cause of your neuropathy? Thanks for your reply!!

The consensus among the health websites appears to be that you should take it with an empty stomach.

Try to bear the discomfort for six months until you can make a sound decision in your case.

@circawdm Great point about taking ALA with food. I started with ALA 3 years ago and at first tried different times of the day with and without food. Slightly upset stomach with no food. I take 600 mg with breakfast and no issues. I don't see any decrease in numbness but does ALA slow progression? Don't know and will likely never know. Several neurologists suggested I use it.

I did a simple Google search and found this “ Some studies suggest that ALA can help with PN, especially when given intravenously (IV). However, other studies have found no significant difference between ALA and a placebo.”