Formulation could Prove Key for ALA Bioavailability

Much research has been conducted on alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) for weight management, with previous clinical studies showing reductions in weight, body mass index, blood pressure, and food intake, among other related concerns.

Now, a team of South Korean researchers have concluded that ALA’s efficacy could be highly dependent on how the ingredient is delivered. In a study published last month in the German journal Die Pharmazie, researchers tested the affect of a daily dose of 800 mg of ALA on mice for four months, while monitoring food intake (for appetite suppression).

ALA was formulated using polymeric stabilizers, including hydroxypropyl cellulose, Pluronic F127, and polyvinylpyrrolidone.

The researchers noted that, compared to nanosuspension formulations, polymeric powders demonstrated “improved efficacy” in reducing food intake. These results suggest that such formulations could be candidates for replacing current ALA formulations for achieving appetite suppression.