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Antioxidant

R-ALA Cyclodextrin

Also known as: R-Alpha Lipoic Acid Cyclodextrin, Right-handed ALA Cyclodextrin, RLA Cyclodextrin, R-Lipoic Acid Cyclodextrin

C
Evidence

R-ALA (R-enantiomer of alpha-lipoic acid) complexed with cyclodextrin is designed to enhance bioavailability and stability of R-ALA, the more biologically active form of lipoic acid. R-ALA has antioxidant and mitochondrial support properties with evidence primarily from in vitro and animal studies.

Primary uses

  • Antioxidant support
  • Mitochondrial function
  • Blood glucose metabolism
  • Peripheral nerve health

How it works

  • Direct free radical scavenging and antioxidant activity
  • Cofactor for mitochondrial α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase and pyruvate dehydrogenase complexes
  • Regeneration of endogenous antioxidants (vitamins C and E, glutathione)
  • Cyclodextrin complexation enhances solubility and absorption

Dosage

Typical range
100-300 mg daily
Timing
With meals for consistency; some practitioners recommend morning dosing
With food
May be taken with or without food, though fat-soluble properties suggest food may aid absorption
Duration
Typical use 8-12 weeks for assessment of effects; long-term safety data limited
Special populations
Pregnancy/lactation: limited data, caution advised. Diabetics taking medications: monitor blood glucose due to potential synergistic effects.

Forms

  • Powder (cyclodextrin complex)· 70/100

Safety

Common side effects

  • Mild gastrointestinal upset
  • Headache (rare)
  • Skin rash (very rare)

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to lipoic acid or cyclodextrin
  • Caution in patients with thiamine deficiency (ALA may further reduce thiamine)

Evidence notes

R-ALA itself has moderate human evidence for peripheral neuropathy and glucose metabolism support, but most evidence is for racemic ALA. The cyclodextrin complex form lacks dedicated human clinical trials; bioavailability claims are based on pharmaceutical technology rationale rather than direct human validation.

Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.