Several studies demonstrate that individuals infected with HIV have a compromised antioxidant defense system. Blood antioxidants are decreased and peroxidation products of lipids and proteins are increased. These changes deplete glutathione levels and this often compromises cell-mediated immune function and progression of AIDS. Alpha lipoic acid supplementation increases vitamin C and glutathione. T-lymphocyte production and T helper/suppressor cell ratio are increased. Patients with compromised immune symptom performance may benefit by supplementation with alpha lipoic acid.

In patients with diabetic neuropathy resulting from antioxidant deficiency, lipoic acid improves blood flow to peripheral nerves, decreases lipid and protein peroxidation, and may stimulate the regeneration of nerve fibers. There is growing evidence that lipoic acid has beneficial effects in slowing atherosclerotic processes and the neurodegenerative effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Experimental studies in animal models show that a deficiency of lipoic acid results in reduced muscle mass, failure to thrive, brain atrophy and increased lactic acid production.

Lipoic acid is available in tablets and capsules. Because of its unique solubility properties it is easily absorbed and assimilated. It is generally available as a racemic mixture of D- and L- forms of alpha lipoic acid. Patients with diabetes or glucose intolerance are cautioned that supplementation may lower blood glucose levels and adjustments in anti-diabetic drug therapy may be necessary to avoid hypoglycemia. Doses of up to 600 mg/day have been tolerated well.