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Date of Award
Spring 2025
Degree Name
Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)
Department
Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences
First Advisor
Kaitlyn Gamber MMS, PA-C
Abstract
In 2021, approximately 5.3% of the U.S. population experienced diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). DPN results from uncontrolled glycemic control, causing peripheral nerve dysfunction, including pain, paresthesia, weakness, and infection due to metabolic stress, microvascular damage, and axonal degeneration. While medical organizations recommend symptomatic management with anticonvulsants, TCAs, SNRIs, and gabapentinoids, studies show only 1 in 3 patients are satisfied with treatment outcomes. Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is an endogenously synthesized molecule with a role in cellular redox modulation, glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, advanced glycation end-product formation, and inflammatory markers. Though ALA has not been highly investigated in the management of DPN, current medical organizations acknowledge its potential medical benefits in the future. This paper summarizes the results of completed clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy of ALA as a monotherapy. Numerous trials found statistically significant improvement in the quality of pain, daily living, and quantitative objective testing that would support its use in managing DPN. Additionally, ALAs minimal drug interactions and favorable side effect profile along with its low cost offer a more accessible option compared to other first-line treatments. Although further clinical trials are essential to establish ALA's efficacy, continued research, could help evolve ALA into a first- or second-line option for the millions affected by this condition.
Recommended Citation
Ensmenger, Patrick J., "Alpha Lipoic Acid: A Review and Comparison to Current Treatment Guidelines of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy" (2025). Capstone Showcase. 1.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2025/pa/1
Additional Files
Alpha Lipoic Acid A Review and Comparison to Current Treatment Guidelines of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy.docx (225 kB)Alpha Lipoic Acid: A Review and Comparison to Current Treatment Guidelines of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy
In 2021, approximately 5.3% of the U.S. population experienced diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). DPN results from uncontrolled glycemic control, causing peripheral nerve dysfunction, including pain, paresthesia, weakness, and infection due to metabolic stress, microvascular damage, and axonal degeneration. While medical organizations recommend symptomatic management with anticonvulsants, TCAs, SNRIs, and gabapentinoids, studies show only 1 in 3 patients are satisfied with treatment outcomes. Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is an endogenously synthesized molecule with a role in cellular redox modulation, glycemic control, insulin sensitivity, advanced glycation end-product formation, and inflammatory markers. Though ALA has not been highly investigated in the management of DPN, current medical organizations acknowledge its potential medical benefits in the future. This paper summarizes the results of completed clinical trials that evaluated the efficacy of ALA as a monotherapy. Numerous trials found statistically significant improvement in the quality of pain, daily living, and quantitative objective testing that would support its use in managing DPN. Additionally, ALAs minimal drug interactions and favorable side effect profile along with its low cost offer a more accessible option compared to other first-line treatments. Although further clinical trials are essential to establish ALA's efficacy, continued research, could help evolve ALA into a first- or second-line option for the millions affected by this condition.