The Effectiveness of Oral Alpha-Lipoic Acid in Improving Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms in Type 2 Diabetes Patients
الكلمات المفتاحية:
Type 2 Diabetes، Alpha-Lipoic Acid، Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument، DN4 scaleالملخص
Background and Objectives: Nearly half of patients with diabetes are affected by diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) during their lifetime. The potential neuroprotective effects of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) have generated interest, as in diabetic patients these may enhance microcirculation and nerve function, offering a promising therapeutic option. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of oral ALA supplementation in improving symptoms of DPN.
Methods: A quasi-experimental study was carried out at Layla Qasem Specialized Diabetic Centers in Erbil, Iraq, between February 1 and June 30, 2024. A total of 100 patients with type 2 diabetes and confirmed DPN were enrolled (50 in the intervention group and 50 controls). The intervention group received 600 mg of ALA twice daily, while the control group opted not to take the treatment. Data were collected using structured interviews, neurological evaluation with the Michigan Neuropathy Screening Instrument (MNSI: history and physical examination), and the Douleur Neuropathique 4 (DN4) scale for neuropathic pain. Body mass index (BMI) and HbA1c were also measured.
Results: The intervention group showed marked improvement compared with controls: MNSI history (87.5% vs. 40.7%), MNSI physical exam (27.6% vs. 2%), and DN4 scale (70.2% vs. 14%). Glycemic control also improved, with mean fasting blood glucose reduced by 59.06 mg/dL and HbA1c decreased by 1.31% in the intervention group relative to controls.
Conclusion: Supplementation with ALA at 600 mg twice daily significantly alleviated neuropathic symptoms and improved glycemic parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes and peripheral neuropathy.
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