From the Guidelines
Alpha lipoic acid with biotin is primarily used to support nerve health, manage blood sugar levels, and promote skin, hair, and nail health, with a recommended dosage of 300-600mg of alpha lipoic acid and 2-5mg of biotin daily, as supported by recent studies 1. The combination of alpha lipoic acid and biotin is often used to help manage diabetic neuropathy symptoms, as alpha lipoic acid may help reduce nerve pain and numbness while biotin supports overall nerve function. Some key points to consider when taking this supplement combination include:
- Alpha lipoic acid may lower blood sugar levels, so diabetics should monitor their glucose carefully 1.
- Biotin supplements can interfere with certain lab tests, so inform healthcare providers if you're taking this combination before undergoing blood work.
- The antioxidant properties of alpha lipoic acid can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, potentially improving insulin sensitivity in people with diabetes 1.
- Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, supports metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, and is essential for maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails 1. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications. Recent studies, such as the 2024 standards of care in diabetes, suggest that alpha lipoic acid may be effective in treating painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy 1. Overall, the combination of alpha lipoic acid and biotin can be a useful supplement for supporting nerve health and managing blood sugar levels, but it's crucial to follow the recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective use.
From the Research
Alpha Lipoic Acid and Biotin Uses
- Alpha lipoic acid is used in the prevention of diabetes complications, including diabetic neuropathy, nephropathy, cardiomyopathy, and erectile dysfunction 2, 3, 4
- It is also used to improve symptoms of peripheral diabetic neuropathy (PDN) when administered via parenteral supplementation over a 3-week period 3
- The combination of alpha lipoic acid, superoxide dismutase, vitamin B12, and carnitine has been shown to improve indices of peripheral neuropathy, including pain and quality of life perception 5
- Vitamin B12 and alpha lipoic acid are being explored as a possible treatment for diabetic mellitus/neuropathy, emphasizing markers of inflammation, lipid profile, and glucose metabolism 6
Combination with Biotin
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies on the use of alpha lipoic acid with biotin
- However, biotin is a B-complex vitamin that plays a crucial role in energy production and nerve function, which may complement the effects of alpha lipoic acid in diabetic neuropathy
Potential Benefits
- Alpha lipoic acid has been shown to have antioxidant properties, regenerating other antioxidants like vitamin E, vitamin C, Coenzyme Q10, and glutathione 2
- It may help improve neuropathic symptoms and deficits, particularly in pain amelioration and asymmetric dimethylarginine reductions 3, 4
- The combination of alpha lipoic acid with other nutrients may have synergistic effects in improving diabetic neuropathy symptoms and quality of life 5