Peripheral neuropathy is a common condition that frequently involves the nerves in the extremities – particularly the feet. Although most people think of peripheral neuropathy as being a disease of diabetics, this condition can have a variety of causes including autoimmune disease, metabolic problems, exposure to toxins and medications, alcoholism, kidney disease, and nutritional deficiencies. Although some people with peripheral neuropathy get relief from correcting the underlying cause – such as nutritional deficiency – others experience chronic problems with tingling of the feet and neuropathic foot pain. In some cases, the pain can be severe enough to require prescription strength pain medications.

Fortunately, there are prescription medications to reduce the symptoms experienced by those with debilitating peripheral neuropathy symptoms, but many of these drugs act on the central nervous system and have significant side effects. Some studies show that supplementing with B vitamins can help those with peripheral neuropathy, but B vitamin supplementation may not work for everyone in the absence of a deficiency. One supplement that’s shown some promise for treating the tingling of the feet and neuropathic foot pain experienced with peripheral neuropathy is alpha lipoic acid.

Alpha Lipoic Acid: What Is It?

Alpha lipoic acid is a cofactor involved in a variety of reactions in the body. It’s also a popular dietary supplement primarily because of its antioxidant benefits. It initially became popular in the 1970’s after people who had serious liver damage experienced recovery of their liver function after taking alpha lipoic acid. Some health care professionals recommend alpha lipoic acid for diabetics since it stimulates glucose uptake by cells, although this effect is seen in cell culture and the degree to which it affects blood sugar levels in humans is less clear.  

Does Alpha Lipoic Acid Help People with Peripheral Neuropathy?

There is some evidence that alpha lipoic acid helps with the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Alpha lipoic acid is often given to peripheral neuropathy patients in Europe via I.V. to relieve the tingling feet and neuropathic food pain seen with this condition. Several European and American studies have shown that giving between 200 and 600 mg. of alpha lipoic acid for three weeks followed by oral supplements significantly decreased peripheral neuropathy symptoms. An ongoing study is looking at whether alpha lipoic acid can reduce the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy that some people experience after cancer chemotherapy. Unfortunately, most studies have focused on I.V. alpha lipoic acid therapy. It’s less clear whether simple oral therapy is effective for people with peripheral neuropathy. To get the same benefits, larger doses and longer treatment times may be needed.

Are There Risks to Taking Alpha Lipoic Acid for Peripheral Neuropathy?

Because alpha lipoic acid can lower blood sugars, it may lead to hypoglycemic symptoms. Due to its blood sugar lowering effect, it should only be used by diabetics while under the care of a doctor. Other potential side effects include mild stomach upset, dizziness, skin rash, muscle cramps, and a tingling sensation. Overall, it appears to be safe when used as a supplement.

Alpha Lipoic Acid for Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathy: The Bottom Line

Supplementing with alpha lipoic acid seems to hold some promise for treating the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, but should only be used while under a doctor’s care – particularly if you’re diabetic. According to a study published in the journal Diabetes Care, a dose of 600 mg. per day seems to be the optimal dose. As always, talk to your doctor before starting treatment.