Comparative Characteristics of Dosage Forms of α-Lipoic Acid

α-Lipoic acid is a fatty acid, which in its physiological effect is on a par with vitamins and minerals, is a vitamin-like substance (vitamin N). A review of clinical trials of the effectiveness of α-lipoic acid in evidence-based diseases is presented. It is proved that the main indication for the use of α-lipoic acid is diabetes mellitus and complications associated with impaired glucose metabolism, including neuropathy, comprising children and adolescents. In addition, α-lipoic acid can be used for medicinal purposes and for a number of other diseases. α-Lipoic acid is an active substance with “critical bioavailability”: when introduced into the interior, its inter- and intra-individual plasma levels can vary significantly. Therefore, the therapeutic effectiveness of lipoic acid preparations largely depends on its form. A comparative characteristic of solid dosage forms of α-lipoic acid according to pharmacokinetic and clinical indicators is given. It was shown that the pharmacokinetic indices of the solid forms of α-lipoic acid practically do not differ, and the bioavailability of all forms is in the range of 30-60%. The advantages (for manufacturers and consumers / patients) and the disadvantages of α-lipoic acid drugs in solid forms - capsules and tablets are shown. Results proving the best therapeutic effect of α-lipoic acid in micellar form are presented