Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Mito Cocktail - Alpha Lipoic Acid

There is no cure for Mitochondrial Disease. The Foundation for Mitochondrial Medicine says the following:

"Currently there are no highly effective mitochondrial disease treatments. Though related symptoms, such as seizures or attention problems can be managed with various medications, the mitochondrial disease itself is unchanged. Unfortunately, supplements such as CoQ10 and L-Carnitine have little to no effect on most patients.

In 2009, FDA approval occurred for an EID (Emergency Intervention Drug) to treat a mitochondrial disease with the new drug from Edison Pharmaceuticals, EPI-743. This represents the first steps toward viable treatments and hopefully, the beginning of many more near-term advancements in mitochondrial medicine research."

I've met many Mito families who have asked what the various components of the Mito Cocktail are, and what does each one do or target?  Today, I wanted to write about Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA).  Our compounding pharmacy (America's Compounding Center) sent us the following information on ALA.

"Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA), also known as thioctic acid, is an antioxidant that is naturally produced by the body and helps convert glucose into energy. Dietary sources of ALA include red meat, liver, broccoli, spinach, and yeast. ALA deficiency is rare, as healthy patients produce enough themselves, but certain genetic and metabolic disorders can lead to a deficiency, including patients with mitochondrial Disease. Because of its effects on glucose, ALA has been studied to improve circulation, prevent nerve damage, and improve blood glucose control in patients with diabetes. ALA may also improve mental function in patients with dementia because of its antioxidant effects. The UMDF recommends taking 60-200 mg of ALA three times daily. Side effects associated with ALA supplementation include nausea, vomiting, rash and headache."

I'm hoping to get information on all the Mito Cocktail components on my blog soon. 

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