Combination of alpha lipoic acid and superoxide dismutase leads to physiological and symptomatic improvements in diabetic neuropathy

Abstract

Background and Objective: The management of diabetic neuropathy is still a challenge for physicians. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a new combination of alpha lipoic acid and superoxide dismutase for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. Methods: The setting of this study was ambulatory (outpatient) care. A prospective, non-randomized, open-label study was conducted in 50 patients with diabetes mellitus and with a deficit in both motor and sensory nerve conduction. Treatment was with a new combination of alpha lipoic acid and superoxide dismutase (ALA600SOD®) for 4 months. Electroneurographic parameters and perceived pain were assessed at baseline and after treatment. Results: After 4 months of treatment, patients significantly (p < 0.001) improved their electroneurographic parameters and their perception of pain. Best improvements were observed in sensory nerve conduction. Conclusion: The combination of two powerful antioxidant agents leads to improvement in both subjective and objective parameters in patients with diabetic neuropathy. New profitable directions for investigations are opened for a non-invasive treatment of diabetic neuropathy in the future. © 2012 Adis Data Information BV. All rights reserved.