Alpha Lipoic Acid IV Ingredients Alpha Lipoic Acid Sodium Bicarbonate Indications ALA can be supportive in many conditions as an antioxidant but the following have been found to have the most support: General Immune Support Cancer Support Liver Support (hepatitis) Weight Loss Chronic Fatigue Fibromyalgia Diabetes Alzheimer’s and other brain conditions Neuropathy Age Management Precautions People may experience a feeling of warmth or mild discomfort when receiving an IV. It is common for patients to taste some of the vitamins, but for those who do not taste them, they are still getting the nutrition. Rare complications that can occur during intravenous therapies include phlebitis (inflammation of the vein) and fluid infiltration (leaking of fluid into the surrounding tissues). Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring fat and water-soluble antioxidant. It is considered a "universal antioxidant" since it functions as an antioxidant while also Page 1 NUTRIENT IV THERAPY Alpha Lipoic Acid IV helping to produce other important antioxidants such as glutathione and several vitamins. ALA is essential for cell metabolism through the mitochondria (power sources of cells). ALA contributes to cellular energy production by turning the nutrients from our food into energy. Researchers are looking into using it to help treat stroke and diseases that cause damage to the brain, like dementia. Since ALA can pass easily into the brain, it may help protect the brain and nerve tissue. Studies also support that ALA helps lower blood sugar levels. It improves insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar, helping diabetics by aiding in damaged nerves and arteries. ALA has been used for years to treat peripheral neuropathy in Germany. Its ability to eliminate free radicals may help people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, who have pain, burning, itching, tingling, and numbness in arms and legs from nerve damage. Intramuscular injections allow for higher doses of ALA to be administered, and some research found that higher oral doses may have an anti-cancer effect. ALA triggers mitochondrial respiration, which could contribute to cancer cell death, although the exact mechanism for this effect is not known – studies are promising.