Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA) is the reduced form of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), a compound with antioxidant properties. The use of ALA for peripheral neuropathy, particularly diabetic neuropathy, is supported by several clinical trials and meta-analyses. DHLA itself is not typically administered directly but is formed in the body from ALA. The majority of studies have investigated the effects of ALA (usually as the racemic mixture or the R-enantiomer), which acts in part through its conversion to DHLA. Clinical evidence indicates that intravenous and oral ALA can lead to modest improvements in neuropathic symptoms such as pain, paresthesia, and numbness in people with diabetic neuropathy. The proposed mechanisms include reduction of oxidative stress, improvement of nerve blood flow, and regeneration of other antioxidants. Notably, randomized controlled trials such as the ALADIN and SYDNEY studies have demonstrated statistically significant, albeit moderate, benefits versus placebo over several weeks of treatment. While these findings primarily relate to ALA, the therapeutic effect is thought to be mediated in part by its conversion to DHLA in vivo. Direct studies on DHLA are limited, so the evidence rating is conservative. Overall, the use of ALA (and by extension its active metabolite DHLA) is supported by moderate-quality evidence for diabetic peripheral neuropathy, though direct evidence for DHLA is sparse, and more research is needed to clarify its independent effects.

More about Dihydrolipoic Acid
More about Peripheral Neuropathy

Other ingredients used for Peripheral Neuropathy

Other health conditions supported by Dihydrolipoic Acid

Products containing Dihydrolipoic Acid