Lipoic acid is a coenzyme that regulates carbohydrate and lipid metabolism and has a tonic effect. It has a strong antioxidant effect, has a hepatoprotective effect, helps to reduce blood sugar levels.

It is produced in small quantities by the human body, and is also found in red meat, carrots, spinach, broccoli, beets, yeast, potatoes. Alpha lipoic acid stimulates the metabolism of cholesterol, reduces the concentration of glucose in the blood, increases glycogen in the liver, and improves the trophism of neurons.

Alpha Lipoic acid has a hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic and hypocholesterolemic effect, improves liver function, and reduces the effect of various toxins on it, including alcohol.

They protect the cell from reactive radicals arising from intermediate metabolism or the decay of exogenous foreign substances, and from heavy metals.

It is produced in the form of coated capsules containing from 12 mg to 600 mg of acid, and a concentrate for solution preparation (injections / infusions).

Indications for use

What is Lipoic Acid for? According to the instructions, the drug is used in the following cases:

• diabetic polyneuropathy;
• alcoholic polyneuropathy;
• fatty degeneration of the liver;
• cirrhosis of the liver;
• chronic hepatitis;
• hepatitis A;
• intoxication (including heavy metal salts);
• poisoning with a pale toadstool;
• hyperlipidemia (including with the development of coronary atherosclerosis - treatment and prevention).

For weight loss, Lipoic acid is used as part of biologically active additives, is part of various medicines and antioxidant complexes. The best weight loss results were recorded when combined with Carnitine and B vitamins.

Instructions for the use of Lipoic acid, dosages

Intravenously injected at 300-600 mg per day (1-2 ampoules of 10 ml + 1 ampoule of 20 ml of a 3% solution). The duration of treatment is 2-4 weeks.

After intravenous administration, maintenance therapy with tablets is continued. The daily dose of maintenance therapy is 300-600 mg per day.

Lipoic Acid Tablets

The drug is taken orally on an empty stomach (half an hour before meals) with water.

According to the instructions for the use of Lipoic acid, the dosage of the tablets depends on the indications:

For the treatment of liver diseases and intoxication - 50 mg up to 4 times a day. Children over 6 years old up to 3 times a day. The course is up to 1 month.

For the treatment of alcoholic and diabetic neuropathy - from 300 to 600 mg per day, as prescribed by a doctor. It is recommended to start treatment with intravenous administration, then switch to tablets.

Side effects

The instruction warns of the possibility of developing the following side effects when prescribing Lipoic acid:

• From the gastrointestinal tract: attacks of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heartburn (when ingested).
• Allergic manifestations: itching, urticaria, skin rash, anaphylactic shock.
• Other: hypoglycemia (impaired glucose metabolism), headache, difficulty or short-term holding of breath (with rapid intravenous administration), diplopia, convulsions, increased intracranial pressure, pinpoint hemorrhages in the mucous membranes and skin, as well as a tendency to bleeding (due to dysfunction platelets).

Contraindications

It is contraindicated to prescribe Lipoic acid in the following cases:

• Pregnancy and lactation (breastfeeding);
• Children under 6 years of age (up to 18 years of age in the treatment of diabetic and alcoholic polyneuropathy);
• Hypersensitivity to the drug.

The entire period of treatment, especially at the beginning, in patients with diabetes mellitus, it is necessary to regularly monitor the concentration of glucose in the blood.

Overdose

Overdose symptoms are epigastric pain, nausea, diarrhea, headache, allergic reactions, anaphylactic shock.

Treatment is symptomatic.

Lipoic acid analogs, price in pharmacies

If necessary, you can replace Lipoic acid with an analogue for the active substance - these are drugs:

1. Alpha lipoic acid;
2. Lipamide tablets;
3. Lipothioxone;
4. Neurolipon;

General characteristics. Composition:

Active substance: Lipoic acid (thioctic acid) -12 mg and 25 mg Excipients: sugar (sucrose), glucose (dextrose), potato starch, calcium stearate 1-water (calcium stearate monohydrate), stearic acid, talc (magnesium hydrosilicate) ... Coating excipients: aerosil (colloidal silicon dioxide), beeswax, titanium dioxide, basic magnesium carbonate (magnesium hydroxycarbonate), vaseline oil, low molecular weight medical polyvinylpyrrolidone (povidone), sugar (sucrose), talc (magnesium hydrosilicate), quin yellow dye -104.

Pharmacological properties:

Lipoic acid is a coenzyme involved in the oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvic acid and alpha-keto acids and plays an important role in the body's energy balance. By the nature of its biochemical action, thioctic acid is similar to vitamins of group B. It participates in the regulation of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, has a lipotropic effect, affects cholesterol metabolism, improves liver function, has a detoxifying effect in case of poisoning with heavy metal salts and other intoxications.

Indications for use:

Important! Check out the treatment

Method of administration and dosage:

Inside after eating. Adults - 50 mg 3-4 times a day. Children over 6 years old - 12-24 mg 2-3 times a day. The duration of treatment is 20-30 days. If necessary, according to the doctor's prescription, a second course of treatment is carried out after 1 month.

Application features:

During the treatment period, regular monitoring of glucose concentration is necessary (especially at the beginning of therapy) in patients with diabetes mellitus; you should refrain from drinking alcohol.

Side effects:

Interaction with other medicinal products:

Strengthens the anti-inflammatory effect of glucocorticosteroids. Reduces the effectiveness of cisplatin. Enhances the action of insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents. Binds metals, therefore, should not be taken simultaneously with preparations containing metal ions (preparations of iron, calcium magnesium); the interval between doses should be at least 2 hours. Ethanol and its metabolites weaken the effect of lipoic acid.

Contraindications:

Hypersensitivity, lactation period, children (up to 6 years). With caution - pregnancy.

Storage conditions:

In a dry, dark place at a temperature not exceeding 25 ° C. Keep out of the reach of children.

Vacation conditions:

On prescription

Packaging:

Film-coated tablets 12 mg and 25 mg. 10 tablets in a blister strip packaging. 50, 100 tablets in glass jars or polymer cans. Each jar or 5 blister packs, together with instructions for use, are placed in a pack.

Lipoic acid instructions for the use of the drug, the possibility of its use as a prophylactic agent, the rules of admission are more and more of interest to people undergoing intense information and emotional stress or employed in the field of physical labor. They have to protect their body cells from premature wear and tear, and they want to do it with the most natural compounds. Can the described medication help them in this?

Alpha Lipoic Acid is one of those rare medicines that are equally successfully used for therapeutic, prophylactic, slimming, and body sculpting, when combined with Alpha Carnitine.

Let's talk about this multifaceted tool in more detail. We will pay attention not only to the medical purpose of the drug, but also to what lipoic acid is good for for weight loss, how to take the remedy, and how effective it is.

General characteristics of the drug

Thioctic (α-lipoic) acid is the active component of the tablet preparation, and provides the therapeutic and lipolytic effect of the drug.

The instruction assigns lipoic acid to the category of "other drugs" used to treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and metabolic changes. Such a formulation most often raises the question: What is lipoic acid for?

Thioctic acid is produced by the human body as a regulator of fat-carbohydrate metabolism, activates the processes of fat utilization. It plays a protective role in relation to cells, primarily liver cells, protects them from the effects of heavy metals and free radicals. Thioctic acid is similar in effect to. Accordingly, it is able to influence the nervous system (it enhances the nutrition of neurons), in addition, the compound takes part in metabolic processes in the mitochondria of cells. It enhances the utilization of blood sugar (glucose) and increases the stores of glycogen in the liver, affects the metabolism of cholesterol. A detoxification effect from the use of the drug to reduce the harmful effects of toxic substances on the body has been noticed. With a lack of endogenous thioctic acid, it is necessary to replenish it from the outside.

The drug is available in tablets and in a solution for injection. In severe cases, it can even be administered intravenously (jet).

Based on the influence that thioctic acid has, it is easy to understand for what ailments it can help. And since not only illness can cause the intake of this remedy, the list of situations in which its use is effective is quite wide.

Indications for use

1. Poisoning.
2. Liver pathology.
3. Certain nervous diseases.

This medication provides invaluable support to the body in case of poisoning with pale toadstool and fly agaric, heavy metal salts and hypnotics.

As a maintenance therapy, thioctic acid can be prescribed for liver cirrhosis, liver failure even in acute form, chronic and viral hepatitis, fatty degeneration of the liver. And also with pancreatitis, including alcoholic, and with concomitant damage to the gallbladder. The drug has shown itself well in the treatment of polyneuropathies, primarily diabetic, and alcoholic polyneuropathy. The medication can be prescribed in the treatment of diabetes, to alleviate the course of cancer. And as a remedy that can reduce the "withdrawal effect" of hormone treatment.

Preventive measures and effectiveness in weight loss

Since lipoic acid has metabolic properties, it can be taken as a metabolic aid. Often it is this property of the drug, as well as its ability to increase muscle endurance, is used by athletes, taking it in combination with Levocarnitine, primarily by bodybuilders.

If men with bulky muscles need this compound, then what do women need Lipoic acid for? The answer is simple: to maintain a slim figure. This becomes possible due to three qualities of the drug:

• the ability to burn fat;
• normalize fat and carbohydrate metabolism;
• reduce appetite.

It is actively used by those who want to bring their figure to perfect condition. Of course, Lipoic acid is not a miracle pill for lazy people. Those who do not want to bother their body with fitness or other physical efforts will not be able to reduce their weight by taking only this remedy. The active substance of the medication only activates lipolytic processes, but cannot cope with its accumulations on its own. The instructions for use recommend combining the use of lipoic acid for weight loss with bringing your diet to a healthy and full value, and moderate physical activity.

Contraindications and side effects of the drug

You need to take the drug as directed by your doctor. In case of individual intolerance to its components, the use of this product is prohibited. Do not use it during pregnancy and lactation. This remedy is also not recommended for children under the age of 16.

It is better not to exceed the dosage indicated by the doctor, since you can overdose the drug and face such unpleasant consequences as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn and cephalalgia.

Interaction with other drugs

Thioctic acid In vitro interacts with metal ions, therefore drugs containing ionic complexes, for example, cisplatin, reduce their effect. The drug enhances the action of insulin.

It is recommended to separate the time between the intake of α-lipoic acid and preparations containing metals (for example, iron or magnesium). The same goes for dairy products. Alcohol intake is strongly discouraged for people taking thioctic acid preparations.

Ethanol and its decomposition products reduce the effectiveness of the drug.

If the drug is taken orally, then a single dose will be 600 mg. When administered intravenously, 300 mg to 600 mg per day can be administered. Usually, injections are given for 14-28 days, and then supportive treatment is prescribed. For these purposes, tablets are used. Usually, the drug is taken once a day in the morning, half an hour before the first meal, with water. Depending on the pathology, the dose can be adjusted by the doctor.

Taking medication for preventive purposes and as a fat burner has its own characteristics. Therefore, a legitimate question arises: how to take lipoic acid for weight loss?

For prophylaxis, 50 mg of active ingredient per day is enough for the human body. For the purpose of slimming the figure, it is better to consult a specialist before taking the medication. For lipoic acid, the instructions for use advise that the individual dosage will depend on:

1. From individual (height-weight) body parameters.
2. The presence of chronic diseases.
3. Load intensity.

The minimum daily dose is 25 mg of the active substance. The average daily dose for a healthy person who is not obese and leads an averagely active lifestyle is 50 mg. In addition to the dosage, it is important to consider a few more points: how many times to take the pills and when? Answering the question, how to take lipoic acid for weight loss, you need to focus on the time of admission. It is most effective to take the product at one of three time intervals of your choice:

• in the morning before meals;
• immediately after an active workout;
• in the evening, after eating.

Taking the medication should be combined with eating food containing plenty of carbohydrates, which will enhance the effect of taking it.

For example, after training, it is good to eat some dates with honey. If you combine taking the drug with breakfast, it is effective to eat buckwheat porridge.

We talked about such a useful compound as Alpha lipoic acid: instructions for use of the drug - the price is also of interest to you. We'll talk about this below. And about the opinion of the patients who tested the drug in action.

The cost of the drug and a brief overview of reviews

This is one of the cheapest medicines, you can find lipoic acid at a price of 27 rubles. For example, for preventive purposes, you can buy 12 mg lipoic acid tablets at a pharmacy price of about 34 rubles. Or Alpha lipoic acid at a pharmacy price of about 47 rubles, at a dosage of 50 mg.

But if you manage to buy Alpha Lipoic Acid at this price, then you are lucky. The ability to purchase this product at this exact price depends on the region. In some regions, you can freely buy this medication at a pharmacy. Other pharmacy chains are full of analogs that are much more expensive. Their price ranges from 600 to 1800 rubles. Alpha lipoic acid can be bought with a different trade name, for example, Berlition-300 at a price of 650 rubles. Alpha lipoic acid at a price of about 1,800 rubles is offered by sellers of pharmacy chains in the form of Thioctacid BV in a dose of 600 mg.

This is basic information about lipoic acid: instructions for use, the price of the product, and the possibilities of application. It remains to talk about the reviews for this drug.

Lipoic acid reviews are mostly positive. This applies to a drug that was used for prophylaxis and for treatment. Some patients were faced with the fact that their body reacted to the medication with an allergic reaction, few patients were faced with other side effects of the drug. Oddly enough, the main negative point for Alpha Lipoic Acid is the inaccessibility of its cheap version.

As for the medication, as a fat burner, lipoic acid for weight loss has the most controversial reviews. From laudatory responses to the statement of its complete inefficiency in this capacity. Of course, given the fact that the diet was not changed, and physical activity did not increase. Once again I would like to note that this tool is unlikely to help those who are in search of a "pill for the lazy".

And even if you find lipoic acid reviews for weight loss in the most excellent degrees. Girls will report that they ate and moved, as before and actively lost weight from some pills, you should not rely on such reviews. The drug is not capable of this.

On Lipoic acid, doctors' reviews are mostly positive, as a drug for adjuvant therapy. They recognize its unique properties and its ability to provide beneficial therapeutic effects in many diseases.

Video: Lipoic acid as a weight loss aid

Svetlana Markova

Beauty is like a precious stone: the simpler it is, the more precious!

Content

In cosmetology and medicine, several types of acids are known that have a beneficial effect on human health. For example, a drug such as lipoic acid (thioctic) is successfully used to normalize the body's metabolism, regulate lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, and control cholesterol levels. What is this substance, why is thioctic acid valuable for our health, how effective is it, and for what purpose is it used?

Medicinal properties of lipoic acid

In almost all organs of the human body, it is found as lipoic (thioctic) acid, but the kidneys, heart, liver contain it in greater quantities. This substance helps to reduce the toxic effects of any toxic substances, heavy metal salts. It improves liver function, protects it from damaging factors, has hepatoprotective, detoxifying properties. With a lack of thioctic (lipoic) acid in the body, preparations with its content are prescribed.

Interacting with the vital vitamins E, C, enhancing their properties, alpha-lipoic acid (another name for it) fights free radicals. It lowers the level of lipids, cholesterol and sugar in the blood, improves the nutrition of the nervous system, in some properties approaches the B vitamins, protects the body from ultraviolet rays, and regulates the activity of the thyroid gland. Thioctic (lipoic) acid is an active substance of the drug of the same name and acts as a compound that provides a therapeutic effect.

Indications for use

It is necessary to use thioctic (lipoic) acid in such cases as:

• diabetic, alcoholic polyneuropathy;
• violation of various types of sensitivity in the limb area;
• atherosclerosis of the vessels of the heart;
• liver disease (viral, toxic hepatitis, cirrhosis);
• treatment of any poisoning (for example, heavy metal salts);
• carrying out activities to improve vision;
• stimulation of the brain;
• the implementation of support for the thyroid gland.

How to take for weight loss?

The main properties of lipoic (thioctic) acid: strengthening and normalization of all processes occurring in the human body. This substance affects the suppression of hunger, promotes the consumption and destruction of fat stores to simple substances, which become energy, and accelerates metabolic processes. Therefore, it is used for weight loss. The daily norm for a healthy person is 25-50 mg of lipoic (thioctic) acid. For the purpose of losing weight, doctors recommend dividing the daily dose into three doses: before or after breakfast, physical activity, and dinner.

Higher doses of this substance are prescribed for people who have metabolic disorders, as well as high blood sugar levels. You can not combine taking the drug with iron-containing agents and alcohol. A dietitian should prescribe a lipoic (thioctic) acid for weight loss. Side effects of an overdose of this substance include:

• nausea;
• vomiting;
• allergic reactions;
• headache.

Carnitine and alpha lipoic acid in bodybuilding

Carnitine (L-carnitine) is an amino acid that activates fat metabolism in the human body. This substance, accumulating in muscles and promoting the breakdown of fats in muscle cells, provides muscle tissue with long-term energy. This is very important for intense strength training. Many carnitine supplements also contain alpha lipoic acid (ALA). It converts substances received by the body into energy, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and prevents the development of obesity.

ALA is a powerful antioxidant, helps to reduce the destruction of proteins and cells, and helps to recover faster after intense workouts. Carnitine is taken before exercise to help you exercise for longer without getting tired. Bodybuilding athletes also take alpha lipoic acid along with a substance called "" to effectively build muscle mass.

The use of dietary supplements leads to an improvement in heart function, a faster recovery of the body due to the normalization of metabolic processes in cells, and a decrease in subcutaneous fat. The maximum result of the use of drugs is achieved with a properly designed training program and a balanced diet. Both ALA and carnitine are non-doping, therefore, they are allowed to be used in sports nutrition without any restrictions.

ALA in cosmetics and cosmetology

ALA (alpha lipoic acid) is able to give the skin a healthy look, make it soft, smooth and beautiful in the shortest possible time. It is a natural substance, particles of which are present in every cell of the human body. ALA is similar to vitamin C in its action. Protection against free radicals is the main function of this substance.

In cosmetology, a cream is used, the component of which is lipoic (thioctic) acid. When using products containing this substance, the effect of vitamins E, A, C is enhanced, metabolism is accelerated, cells are renewed, getting rid of toxins and sugar. The most important thing is that ALA gives a rejuvenating effect, the skin of the face becomes taut, well-groomed, acne, dandruff disappear, accelerated adhesion and healing of microscopic wounds occurs.

You can buy ALA in powder or liquid form. When added to a cream or tonic, capsules with alpha lipoic acid are used immediately, they cannot be stored for a long time, otherwise they will lose their medicinal properties. It is necessary to store ALA and the means of which it is a component, in places protected from light. In cosmetology, the use of this substance leads to smoothing and tightening of the skin, restoring its natural color.

Application during pregnancy and lactation

Lipoic (thioctic) acid is successfully used to treat many diseases. Regardless of the medicinal properties, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, this remedy is prescribed with great care, and some sources generally recommend abandoning its use. Since opinions differ on the safety of thioctic acid for nursing and pregnant women, it is best to consult a doctor before using this drug.

Contraindications and side effects

Contraindications to the use of lipoic (thioctic) acid:

• children under 6 years of age (safety of use has not been proven);
• an allergic reaction to the drug and its components;
• hypersensitivity to thioctic (lipoic) acid;
• pregnancy;
• the period of breastfeeding.

Possible side effects:

• pinpoint hemorrhages;
• dysfunction of platelets;
• increased intracranial pressure;
• a sharp drop in blood sugar levels;
• double vision;
• convulsions;
• nausea, feeling of heaviness in the abdomen;
• allergic reactions;
• heartburn.

Lipoic acid (alpha-lipoic acid, thioctic acid, vitamin N) - properties, content in products, instructions for use of drugs, how to take for weight loss, analogues, reviews. Lipoic acid and carnitine

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The site provides background information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. A specialist consultation is required!

Lipoic acid is a biologically active substance that was previously considered vitamin-like, and now belongs to vitamins with medicinal properties. Lipoic acid is also called lipamide, thioctic acid, para-aminobenzoic acid, alpha lipoic acid, vitamin N or berlition... Moreover, the internationally accepted name for the substance is thioctic acid, but this name is not used in the overwhelming majority of cases, therefore it is necessary to know all its names in order to be free to navigate what is at stake. On the basis of this substance, drugs have already been created and successfully used, such as Berlition, Thioctacid, Lipoic acid, etc.

Let us consider the properties, indications and rules for the use of lipoic acid both from the standpoint of the active substance and from the point of view of medicinal preparations containing this compound as an active component. In this case, to designate lipoic acid as a drug, we will write its name with an uppercase (capital) letter, and to describe it as an active substance, we will indicate the name with a lowercase (small) letter.

Brief characteristics of lipoic acid

According to its physical properties, lipoic acid is a yellowish crystalline powder with a bitter taste and specific odor. The powder is highly soluble in alcohols and poorly in water. but sodium lipoic acid It dissolves well in water, and therefore it is it, and not pure thioctic acid, that is used as an active substance for the manufacture of medicines and dietary supplements.

Lipoic acid was first obtained and discovered in the middle of the 20th century, but it fell into the category of vitamin-like substances much later. So, in the course of research, it was found that lipoic acid is present in every cell of any organ or tissue, providing a powerful antioxidant effect that maintains a person's vitality at a high level. The antioxidant effect of this substance is universal, since it destroys all types and types of free radicals. Moreover, lipoic acid binds and removes toxic substances and heavy metals from the body, as well as normalizes the condition of the liver, preventing its severe damage in chronic diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis. Therefore, lipoic acid preparations are considered hepatoprotectors.

In addition, thioctic acid has insulin-like action, replacing insulin in case of its lack, due to which the cells receive a sufficient amount of glucose for their vital activity. In the presence of a sufficient amount of lipoic acid in the cells, they do not experience glucose starvation, since vitamin N promotes the penetration of glucose from the blood into the cells, thereby enhancing the effect of insulin. Due to the presence of glucose, all processes in cells proceed quickly and completely, since this simple substance provides the required amount of energy. It is because of the ability to enhance the effect of insulin and, moreover, to replace this hormone in case of its lack, that lipoic acid is used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

By normalizing the functioning of various organs and systems and providing all cells with energy lipoic acid effective in the treatment of neurological diseasesas it helps to restore tissue structure. So, when using lipoic acid, recovery from a stroke proceeds much faster and more completely, as a result of which the degree of paresis and deterioration of mental functions decreases.

Thanks to antioxidant effect lipoic acid helps to restore the structure of the nervous tissue, due to which the use of this substance improves memory, attention, concentration and vision.

Thus, it is obvious that lipoic acid is a natural metabolite formed during biochemical reactions and performs very important functions. These functions are monotonous, but they provide a fairly wide range of effects due to the fact that the action is in different organs and systems and is aimed at normalizing their work. In general, we can say that lipoic acid increases the activity and prolongs the performance of the human body for a long period of time.

Normally, thioctic acid enters the body from food products that are rich in this substance. In this respect, it is no different from other vitamins and minerals that a person needs for normal life. However, this substance is also synthesized in the human body, therefore, it is not indispensable, like vitamins. But with age and with various diseases, the ability of cells to synthesize lipoic acid decreases, as a result of which it is necessary to increase its supply from the outside with food.

Lipoic acid can be obtained not only from food, but also additionally in the form of dietary supplements and complex vitamins, which is perfect for the preventive use of this substance. For the treatment of various diseases, lipoic acid should be used in the form of drugs, in which it is contained in high doses.

In the body, lipoic acid accumulates in the greatest amount in the cells of the liver, kidneys and heart, since it is these structures that are at the maximum risk of damage and require a large amount of energy for normal and proper functioning.

Lipoic acid breakdown occurs at a temperature of 100 o C, therefore, moderate heat treatment of food during cooking does not reduce its content. However, frying food in oil at high temperatures can break down lipoic acid and thus reduce its content and intake. It should also be borne in mind that thioctic acid breaks down more easily and faster in a neutral and alkaline medium, but, on the contrary, turns out to be very stable in an acidic one. Accordingly, adding vinegar, citric acid, or other acids to food during cooking increases the stability of lipoic acid.

Lipoic acid absorption depends on the composition of nutrients entering the body. So, the more carbohydrates are present in the diet, the less vitamin N is absorbed. Therefore, to ensure the absorption of lipoic acid, it is necessary to plan the diet in such a way that it contains a significant amount of fats and proteins. Lipoic acid is found in the greatest amount in the following foods:

• Bananas;
• Legumes (peas, beans, lentils, etc.);
• Beef;
• Beef liver;
• Mushrooms;
• Yeast;
• Cabbage of any kind;
• Leafy greens (spinach, lettuce, parsley, dill, basil, arugula, leushtyan (lovage), etc.);
• Milk and dairy products (sour cream, cream, butter, kefir, cheeses, cottage cheese, yogurt, etc.);
• Pepper;
• Kidneys;
• Wheat groats ("arnautka");
• A heart;
• Eggs.

Fruits and vegetables not on this list contain much less lipoic acid.

Vitamin N intake

Adult men and women need to consume 25-50 mg of lipoic acid per day, pregnant and lactating mothers - 75 mg, and children under 15 years old - 12.5 - 25 mg. In case of liver, kidney or heart diseases, the rate of lipoic acid consumption increases to 75 mg per day, regardless of the person's age, since it is consumed more intensively and faster.

Excess and deficiency of lipoic acid in the body

There are no pronounced, clearly identifiable and specific symptoms of lipoic acid deficiency in the body, since this substance is synthesized by the own cells of all tissues and organs, and therefore is constantly present at least in a minimal amount.

However, it was found that with insufficient use of lipoic acid, the following disorders develop:

• Neurological symptoms (dizziness, headaches, polyneuritis, neuropathy, etc.);
• Liver dysfunction with the formation of fatty hepatosis (fatty degeneration of the liver) and bile formation disorder;
• Atherosclerosis of the vessels;
• Metabolic acidosis;
• Muscle spasms;
• Myocardial dystrophy.

There is no excess lipoic acid, since any excess entering the body with food or dietary supplements is quickly eliminated without having any negative effect on organs and tissues.

In rare cases, lipoic acid hypervitaminosis may develop with prolonged use of drugs containing this substance. In this case, hypervitaminosis is manifested by the development of heartburn, increased acidity of gastric juice, pain in the epigastric region and allergic reactions.

Lipoic Acid and Alpha Lipoic Acid

Lipoic acid and alpha lipoic acid are different names for the same biologically active substance used for the manufacture of medicines and dietary supplements. In addition, Lipoic Acid and Alpha Lipoic Acid are also the names of two medications that contain vitamin N. Thus, it is clear that there is simply no difference between lipoic and alpha lipoic acid.

Properties and therapeutic action of thioctic acid

Lipoic acid has the following effects on the human body:

• Participates in the course of metabolic reactions (carbohydrate and fat metabolism);
• Participates in redox biochemical reactions in all cells;
• Supports the thyroid gland and prevents the development of iodine-deficient goiter;
• Provides protection against the negative effects of solar radiation;
• Participates in the production of energy in cells, being a necessary component for the synthesis of ATP (adenosine triphosphoric acid);
• Improves vision;
• It has neuroprotective and hepatoprotective effects, increasing the resistance of cells of the nervous system and liver to the adverse effects of various environmental factors;
• Normalizes blood cholesterol levels in atherosclerosis;
• Provides the growth of beneficial intestinal microflora;
• Has a powerful antioxidant effect;
• Has an insulin-like effect, ensuring the utilization of blood glucose by cells;
• Strengthens the immune system.

By severity antioxidant properties lipoic acid has been compared to vitamin C and tocopherol (vitamin E). In addition to its own antioxidant properties, thioctic acid enhances the action of other antioxidants and restores their activity when it decreases. Due to the antioxidant effect, cells of various organs and tissues are not damaged longer and perform their functions better, which, accordingly, has a positive effect on the work of the whole organism.

In addition, the antioxidant effect allows lipoic acid to protect the walls of blood vessels from damage, as a result of which cholesterol plaques do not form on them and blood clots do not attach. That is why vitamin N effectively prevents and is used in the complex therapy of vascular diseases (thrombophlebitis, phlebothrombosis, varicose veins, etc.).

Insulin-like action Lipoic acid lies in its ability to "get" glucose from the blood into the cells, where it is used for energy. The only hormone in the human body that is able to "bring" glucose into cells from the blood is insulin, and therefore, when it is lacking, a unique phenomenon occurs when there is a lot of sugar in the bloodstream, and the cells starve, since glucose does not enter them. Lipoic acid enhances the action of insulin and can even "replace" it if the latter is lacking. That is why lipoic acid is often used in the complex therapy of diabetes mellitus in Europe and the USA. In this case, lipoic acid reduces the risk of developing complications of diabetes (damage to the vessels of the kidneys, retina, neuropathy, trophic ulcers, etc.), and also allows you to reduce the dosage of insulin or other used hypoglycemic agents.

Plus, lipoic acid accelerates and supports the production of ATP in cells, which is a universal energy substrate necessary for the course of biochemical reactions with the expenditure of energy (for example, protein synthesis, etc.). The fact is that at the cellular level, for biochemical reactions, energy is used strictly in the form of ATP, and not in the form of fats or carbohydrates from food, and therefore the synthesis of a sufficient amount of this molecule is critically important for the normal functioning of the cellular structures of all organs and tissues.

The role of ATP in cells can be compared to gasoline, which is a necessary and common fuel for all cars. That is, for any energy-consuming reaction in the body to occur, it needs ATP to ensure this process (like gasoline to a car), and not any other molecule or substance. Therefore, in cells, various molecules of fats and carbohydrates are processed into ATP in order to provide energy for the necessary biochemical reactions.

Since lipoic acid maintains the synthesis of ATP at a sufficient level, it ensures the rapid and correct course of metabolic processes and cascades of biochemical reactions, during which cells of various organs and systems perform their specific functions.

If an insufficient amount of ATP is produced in the cells, then they cannot function normally, as a result of which the development of various disorders of the work of one or another organ (most of all suffering from a lack of ATP) occurs. Very often, various disorders of the nervous system, liver, kidneys and heart due to a lack of ATP develop against the background of diabetes mellitus or atherosclerosis, when the vessels are clogged, as a result of which the supply of nutrients to them is limited. But it is from the nutrients that the ATP necessary for the cells is formed. In such situations, neuropathies develop, in which a person feels numbness, tingling and other unpleasant symptoms along the course of a nerve that is in an area of \u200b\u200binsufficient blood supply.

Lipoic acid in such situations compensates for the deficiency of nutrients, ensuring the production of a sufficient amount of ATP, which allows you to eliminate these unpleasant symptoms. That is why vitamin N is used to treat Alzheimer's disease, as well as polyneuropathies of various origins, including alcoholic, diabetic, etc.

In addition, lipoic acid increases the oxygen uptake of the brain cells and thus improves the productivity and efficiency of mental work, as well as concentration.

Hepatoprotective action thioctic acid is to protect liver cells from damage by poisons and toxic substances circulating in the blood, as well as prevent fatty degeneration of the liver. That is why lipoic acid is included in the complex therapy of almost any liver disease. In addition, vitamin N stimulates the constant excretion of excess cholesterol in the bile, thereby preventing the formation of gallstones.

Lipoic acid is able to bind salts of heavy metals and remove them from the body, providing detoxifying action.

Due to its ability to strengthen the immune system, lipoic acid effectively prevents colds and infectious diseases.

In addition, lipoic acid is able to maintain the so-called aerobic threshold, or even increase it, which is very important for both athletes and people involved in amateur sports or fitness for weight loss or maintaining good physical shape. The fact is that there is a certain line at which, during intense aerobic exercise, glucose ceases to be broken down in the presence of oxygen, but begins to be processed in an oxygen-free environment (glycolysis begins), which leads to the accumulation of lactic acid in the muscles, which causes pain. With a low aerobic threshold, a person cannot exercise as much as he needs, and therefore lipoic acid, which increases this threshold, is necessary for athletes and visitors to fitness clubs.

Lipoic acid preparations

Currently, medicinal preparations with lipoic acid and dietary supplements (biologically active additives) are produced. Medicines are intended for the treatment of various diseases (primarily neuropathies, as well as diseases of the liver and blood vessels), and dietary supplements are recommended for prophylactic use by practically healthy people. The complex therapy of various diseases can include both drugs and dietary supplements containing lipoic acid.

Medicines containing lipoic acid are available in the form of capsules and tablets for oral administration, as well as in the form of solutions for injection. Supplements are available in tablets and capsules.

Medications

Currently, the following medicinal products are available on the domestic pharmaceutical market, containing lipoic acid as an active component:

• Berlition - tablets and concentrate for the preparation of a solution for intravenous administration;
• Lipamid - tablets;
• Lipoic acid - tablets and solution for intramuscular injection;
• Lipothioxone - a concentrate for the preparation of a solution for intravenous administration;
• Neurolipon - capsules and concentrate for the preparation of a solution for intravenous administration;
• Octolipen - capsules, tablets and concentrate for the preparation of a solution for intravenous administration;
• Tiogamma - tablets, solution and concentrate for infusion;
• Thioctacid 600 T - solution for intravenous administration;
• Thioctacid BV - tablets;
• Thioctic acid - tablets;
• Tiolepta - tablets and solution for infusion;
• Espa-Lipon - tablets and concentrate for the preparation of a solution for intravenous administration.

Supplements with lipoic acid

Currently, there are the following lipoic acid supplements on the pharmaceutical market:

• Antioxidant from NSP;
• Alpha Lipoic Acid from DHC
• Alpha Lipoic Acid from Solgar
• Alpha Normix;
• Alpha D3-Teva;
• Gastrofilin Plus;
• Microhydrin;
• Nutricoenzyme Q10 with Alpha Lipoic Acid from Solgar;
• Nature Bounty Alpha Lipoic Acid;
• Alpha Lipoic Acid by Now
• Alpha Lipoid Acid and L-Carnitine from KWS;
• Alpha Lipoic Acid by Doctor "s Best;
• Slim Lady;
• Turbo Slim Alpha Lipoic Acid & L-Carnitine;
• Liver Aid;
• Mega Protect 4 Life etc.

In addition, lipoic acid is contained in the following types of multivitamins Complivit and Alphabet, which are also classified as dietary supplements (like other vitamins):

• Alphabet Diabetes;
• Alphabet Effect;
• Complies with Diabetes;
• Complies the Shining;
• Complivit Trimester 1,2 and 3.

Lipoic Acid Tablets

Vitamins Complivit and Alphabet are produced in tablet form, as well as the following medicines:

• Berlition;
• Lipamide;
• Lipoic acid;
• Octolipene;
• Thiogamma;
• Thioctacid BV;
• Thioctic acid;
• Thiolepta;
• Espa Lipon.

Almost all dietary supplements containing lipoic acid are available in capsule form.

Indications for the use of drugs and dietary supplements with lipoic acid

Lipoic acid can be used prophylactically or as part of the complex therapy of various diseases. For prevention, it is recommended to take drugs and dietary supplements at the rate of 25-50 mg lipoic acid per day, which corresponds to the daily needs of the human body in this substance. As part of complex therapy, the dosage of lipoic acid is significantly higher and reaches 600 mg per day.

For therapeutic purposes lipoic acid preparations are used for the following conditions or diseases:

• Atherosclerosis of the vessels of the heart and brain;
• Botkin's disease;
• Chronic hepatitis;
• Cirrhosis of the liver;
• Fatty liver infiltration (steatosis, fatty hepatosis);
• Polyneuritis and neuropathy associated with diabetes, alcoholism, etc.;
• Intoxication of any origin, including alcoholic;
• Increase in muscle mass and aerobic threshold in athletes;
• Chronic fatigue syndrome;
• Increased fatigue;
• Decreased memory, attention and concentration;
• Alzheimer's disease;
• Myocardial dystrophy;
• Muscle degeneration;
• Diabetes;
• To improve vision, including with macular degeneration of the retina and open-angle glaucoma;
• Skin diseases (allergic dermatosis, psoriasis, eczema);
• Large pores and acne marks;
• Yellowish or dull skin tone;
• Blue circles under the eyes;

For preventive purposes lipoic acid preparations can be taken by both perfectly healthy people and those suffering from any of the above diseases (but in combination with other medications).

Instructions for the use of lipoic acid

Rules for the use of vitamin N for therapeutic purposes

As part of complex therapy or as the main drug for neuropathies, diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, muscle and myocardial dystrophy, chronic fatigue syndrome and intoxication, lipoic acid preparations are used in high therapeutic dosages, that is, 300 - 600 mg per day.

With severe disease first, within 2 to 4 weeks, lipoic acid preparations are administered intravenously, after which they switch to taking in the form of tablets or capsules in a maintenance dosage (300 mg per day). With a relatively mild and controlled course of the disease you can immediately take vitamin N preparations in the form of tablets or capsules. Intravenous administration of thioctic acid is used for atherosclerosis and liver disease only if a person cannot take pills.

Intravenously injected at 300 - 600 mg of lipoic acid per day, which corresponds to 1 - 2 ampoules of the solution. For intravenous injection, the contents of the ampoules are diluted in saline and administered by infusion (in the form of a "dropper"). Moreover, the entire daily dose of lipoic acid is administered during one infusion.

Because lipoic acid solutions are sensitive to light, they are prepared just prior to infusion. While the solution is "dripping", wrap the bottle with foil or other opaque material. Lipoic acid solutions in foil-wrapped containers can be stored for up to 6 hours.

Lipoic acid tablets or capsules should be taken half an hour before meals with a small amount of still water (half a glass is enough). The tablet or capsule must be swallowed whole without biting, chewing or crushing in any other way. The daily dosage is 300 - 600 mg for various diseases and conditions, and is completely taken at a time.

The duration of therapy with lipoic acid preparations is usually 2 to 4 weeks, after which it is possible to take the drug in a maintenance dosage for 1 to 2 months - 300 mg once a day. However, in severe cases of the disease or severe symptoms of neuropathy, it is recommended to take 600 mg of lipoic acid per day for 2 to 4 weeks, after which, for several months, drink 300 mg per day.

With atherosclerosis and liver disease lipoic acid preparations are optimally taken at 200 - 600 mg per day for several weeks. The duration of therapy is determined by the rate of normalization of tests reflecting the state of the liver, such as the activity of AST, ALT, the concentration of bilirubin, cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides (TG).

It is recommended to repeat courses of therapy with lipoic acid preparations periodically, maintaining an interval between them lasting at least 3 - 5 weeks.

To eliminate intoxication and with steatosis (fatty liver hepatosis) adults are recommended to take lipoic acid preparations in a prophylactic dosage, that is, 50 mg 3-4 times a day. Children over 6 years of age with steatosis or intoxication are recommended to take 12 - 25 mg of lipoic acid preparations 2 - 3 times a day. The duration of therapy is determined by the rate of normalization of the condition, but not more than one month.

How to take lipoic acid for prevention

For prophylaxis, it is recommended to take drugs or dietary supplements with lipoic acid in a dosage of 12 - 25 mg 2 - 3 times a day. An increase in the prophylactic dosage up to 100 mg per day is allowed. The tablets or capsules should be taken after meals with a little still water.

The duration of prophylactic administration of drugs and dietary supplements of lipoic acid is 20 - 30 days. Such prophylactic courses can be repeated, but an interval of at least one month should be maintained between two subsequent doses of lipoic acid.

In addition to the indicated prophylactic intake of thioctic acid preparations by practically healthy people, we will consider the option of using it by athletes who want to build muscle mass or increase the aerobic threshold. With the speed-power nature of the load, you should take 100-200 mg of lipoic acid per day for 2 to 3 weeks. If exercises are performed to develop endurance (to increase the aerobic threshold), then lipoic acid should be taken at 400-500 mg per day for 2 to 3 weeks. During the periods of competitions or training camps, you can increase the dosage up to 500 - 600 mg per day.

Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Due to the lack of clear and reliable data on the safety of lipoic acid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is recommended to abandon the use of drugs and dietary supplements containing this substance during the indicated periods of a woman's life. Although, theoretically, lipoic acid is a harmless substance both for a pregnant and lactating mother and for a child, therefore, if necessary, you can go on taking medications containing this substance, but do this strictly under the supervision of a doctor.

special instructions

At the beginning of lipoic acid use with neurological diseases an increase in unpleasant symptoms is possible, since there is an intensive process of restoration of the nerve fiber.

Alcohol significantly reduces the effectiveness of treatment and prevention with lipoic acid preparations. In addition, a large amount of alcohol can provoke a sharp deterioration in a person's condition.

When using lipoic acid with diabetes it is necessary to constantly monitor the level of glucose in the blood and, in accordance with it, adjust the dosage of hypoglycemic drugs.

After intravenous injection lipoic acid, a specific smell of urine may appear, which does not have any important significance, or an allergic reaction may develop, proceeding in the form of itching and malaise. If, in response to the administration of a lipoic acid solution, an allergy develops, then such use of the drug should be discontinued and switched to taking tablets or capsules.

Intravenous injection too fast lipoic acid solutions can provoke heaviness in the head, convulsions and double vision, which pass on their own and do not require discontinuation of the drug.

Any dairy product should be consumed 4 to 5 hours after taking or injecting lipoic acid, as it impairs the absorption of calcium and other ions.

Overdose

Lipoic acid overdose is possible when more than 10,000 mg is taken in one day. The risk of developing an overdose of vitamin N increases significantly with the simultaneous use of alcohol and, accordingly, such can occur when taking a dosage of less than 10,000 mg per day.

Lipoic acid overdose is manifested by seizures, lactic acidosis, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), bleeding, nausea, vomiting, headaches, anxiety, blurred consciousness, and blood clotting disorders. With a milder course of overdose, only nausea, vomiting and headaches may occur. However, in case of any lipoic acid overdose, a person should be hospitalized, gastric lavage should be performed, a sorbent should be given (for example, activated carbon, Polyphepan, Polysorb, etc.) and the normal functioning of vital organs should be maintained.

Impact on the ability to control mechanisms

Lipoic acid does not affect the functions of the central nervous system, and in some cases even improves them, therefore, while taking medications and dietary supplements containing this substance, you can engage in any activity that requires a high speed of reactions and concentration of attention.

Interaction with other medications

The effects of lipoic acid are enhanced when combined with B vitamins and L-carnitine. And lipoic acid itself enhances the effect of insulin and hypoglycemic drugs (for example, Glibenclamide, Gliclazide, Metformin, etc.).

Alcohol reduces the severity of the therapeutic effect of lipoic acid and increases the risk of side effects or overdose.

Lipoic acid injection solutions are incompatible with glucose, fructose, Ringer's and other sugar solutions.

Lipoic acid reduces the severity of the action of Cisplastin and preparations containing metal compounds (for example, iron, magnesium, calcium, etc.). Reception of lipoic acid and these drugs should be spread in time for 4 - 5 hours.

Lipoic acid for weight loss

Lipoic acid alone does not promote weight loss, and the widespread belief that this substance helps to lose weight is based on its ability to lower blood sugar levels and stop hunger. That is, thanks to the intake of lipoic acid, a person does not feel hunger, as a result of which he can control the amount of food absorbed and, thereby, lose weight. In addition, stopping hunger makes it relatively easy to tolerate diets, which certainly lead to weight loss.

The normalization of blood sugar levels leads to an improvement in fat metabolism, which, of course, has a positive effect on the general well-being and condition, and can also contribute to weight loss.

In addition, the intake of thioctic acid leads to the complete conversion of the eaten carbohydrates into energy, thereby preventing the formation of new fat deposits. A similar effect can also only indirectly help a person lose weight. Lipoic acid also binds and removes toxic substances from the body, making the process of losing weight easier and faster.

Thus, it is clear that lipoic acid itself does not induce weight loss. But if you take lipoic acid as a supplement to a sensible diet and exercise, it will help you lose weight more quickly. For this purpose, thioctic acid is rational to use in the form of dietary supplements, which also often additionally contain L-carnitine or B vitamins, which enhance the effect of lipamide.

In order to reduce weight, lipoic acid should be taken 12 - 25 mg 2 - 3 times a day after meals, as well as before or after training. The maximum permissible dosage of lipoic acid that can be taken for weight loss is 100 mg per day. The duration of the course of using lipoic acid for weight loss is 2 to 3 weeks.

Lipoic acid and carnitine

Carnitine enhances the effect of lipoic acid, and therefore both of these substances are present in many dietary supplements at the same time. Most often, lipoic acid in combination with carnitine is used in dietary supplements that promote weight loss, as well as designed to increase endurance for people involved in sports.

Side effects and contraindications for use

• Hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to components of drugs or dietary supplements;
• Age under 6;
• Pregnancy;
• Breastfeeding period;
• Gastritis with increased acidity of gastric juice;
• Peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum in the acute stage.

Lipoic (alpha lipoic) acid - reviews

Most reviews of alpha lipoic acid (85 to 95%) are positive, due to the noticeable effects of the drug. Lipoic acid is often taken for the purpose of losing weight, and reviews regarding this aspect of use are in most cases also positive. So, in these reviews, it is noted that lipoic acid is good for women or men to shift weight, which is at the same level for a long time, despite diet or regular exercise. In addition, reviews indicate that lipoic acid accelerates weight loss, but subject to diet or exercise.

Also, lipoic acid is often taken to improve vision and, according to reviews, it works perfectly, since the veil and fog in front of the eyes disappears, all surrounding objects are seen clearly and clearly, the colors are juicy, bright and saturated. In addition, lipoic acid reduces eye fatigue under constant eye strain, such as working at a computer, monitors, paper, etc.

The third most common reason why people have taken lipoic acid is liver problems, for example, chronic diseases, opisthorchiasis, etc. In this case, lipoic acid normalizes general well-being, relieves pain in the right side, and also eliminates nausea and discomfort. after eating fatty and plentiful food. In addition to eliminating the symptoms of liver disease, thioctic acid improves the condition of the skin, which becomes smoother, firmer and lighter, and the yellowish tint and fatigue disappear.

Finally, many people take lipoic acid simply to improve their well-being, as a vitamin-like substance and a powerful antioxidant. In this case, the reviews indicate a variety of positive effects that appeared after taking vitamin N, such as:

• Energy appears, the feeling of fatigue decreases and efficiency increases;
• Mood improves;
• Bags under the eyes disappear;
• Liquid excretion improves and edema is eliminated;
• The concentration of attention and the speed of thinking increase (in this, the effect of lipoic acid is similar to Nootropil).

However, in addition to positive reviews about lipoic acid, there are also negative ones, usually due to the development of poorly tolerated side effects or the absence of the expected effect. So, among the side effects, people most often develop hypoglycemia, which provokes drowsiness, dizziness, headaches and a feeling of trembling limbs.

Price in pharmacies

The cost of different lipoic acid preparations varies. At present, the prices for drugs containing lipoic acid in pharmacies in Russian cities are as follows:

• Alpha lipoic acid from Solgar - capsules 707 - 808 rubles;
• Berlition - tablets - 720 - 850 rubles, ampoules - 510 - 956 rubles;
• Lipoic acid - tablets - 35 - 50 rubles;
• Neurolipon - ampoules - 171 - 312 rubles, capsules - 230 - 309 rubles;
• Octolipen - capsules - 284 - 372 rubles, tablets - 543 - 747 rubles, ampoules - 355 - 467 rubles;
• Tiogamma - tablets - 880 - 2000 rubles, ampoules - 217 - 2140 rubles;
• Thioctacid 600 T - ampoules - 1399 - 1642 rubles;
• Thioctacid BV - tablets - 1591 - 3179 rubles;
• Tiolepta - tablets - 299 - 930 rubles;
• Tiolipon - concentrate for preparation of solution for intravenous administration;
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