Antioxidant
R-Alpha Lipoic Acid
Also known as: R-ALA, R-alpha-lipoic acid, right-handed alpha-lipoic acid, RLA
R-alpha lipoic acid is the biologically active S-enantiomer of alpha-lipoic acid, a mitochondrial cofactor with antioxidant and metabolic effects. It has stronger evidence for neuropathic pain and metabolic health compared to the racemic mixture, though human data remains limited.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every R-Alpha Lipoic Acid product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jarrow Formulas R-Alpha Lipoic Acid | 78 B+ | $0.50 |
| 2 | Natural Factors R-Lipoic Acid | 75 B+ | $0.48 |
| 3 | Country Life R-Lipoic Acid 100 mg | 70 B | $0.46 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much R-Alpha Lipoic Acid should I take?
The typical range is 300-600 mg daily. Typically requires 4-12 weeks of consistent use for neuropathy effects; can be used long-term
When should I take R-Alpha Lipoic Acid?
With or without food; divided doses may improve absorption. Can take with or without food, though food may slow absorption slightly.
Which form of R-Alpha Lipoic Acid is best?
Powder. Other forms in the catalog: Capsules, Tablets, Sodium R-lipoate (stabilized form).
Is R-Alpha Lipoic Acid safe?
Commonly reported: Mild nausea or GI upset, Rash (rare), Hypoglycemia risk in diabetics on medications.
Which R-Alpha Lipoic Acid supplement scores highest?
Jarrow Formulas R-Alpha Lipoic Acid, at 78/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Neuropathic pain support
- Blood sugar metabolism
- Antioxidant support
- Mitochondrial function
- Nerve health
How it works
- Mitochondrial electron transport cofactor
- Free radical scavenging
- Recycling of vitamins C and E
- AMPK activation
- Glucose transporter upregulation
Dosage
- Typical range
- 300-600 mg daily
- Timing
- With or without food; divided doses may improve absorption
- With food
- Can take with or without food, though food may slow absorption slightly
- Duration
- Typically requires 4-12 weeks of consistent use for neuropathy effects; can be used long-term
- Special populations
- Diabetic individuals should monitor blood glucose; may enhance insulin sensitivity
Forms
- Powder· 70/100
- Capsules· 70/100
- Tablets· 70/100
- Sodium R-lipoate (stabilized form)· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Mild nausea or GI upset
- Rash (rare)
- Hypoglycemia risk in diabetics on medications
Contraindications
- Thiamine (B1) deficiency risk with very high doses
- Use cautiously in hypoglycemia-prone individuals
- Caution in those with biotin deficiency
Products containing R-Alpha Lipoic Acid
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list R-Alpha Lipoic Acid on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Strong mechanistic rationale and good clinical evidence for diabetic neuropathy (especially IV formulations) and metabolic markers. R-enantiomer shows superior bioavailability and activity versus racemic ALA. Oral data less robust than IV but still supportive.
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
Related in Antioxidant
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.