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Alpha-Lipoic Acid

PRIMARY FUNCTION

Potent antioxidant and metabolic cofactor supporting cellular energy, liver health, vision, and neuroprotection.

HOW IT SUPPORTS PET HEALTH

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring compound and coenzyme essential for mitochondrial energy production. It acts as a universal antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals in both water- and fat-soluble environments. In dogs, ALA supplementation has been shown to increase glutathione levels, protect cells from oxidative stress, support healthy liver function, and maintain normal glucose metabolism. ALA also recycles other antioxidants such as vitamin C and E, amplifying the body’s overall antioxidant defense system. Additionally, ALA may help protect the nervous system and support cognitive function, especially in senior pets.

FUNCTIONAL OVERVIEW

ALA functions as a cofactor in mitochondrial metabolism, facilitating the conversion of nutrients into cellular energy (ATP). Its antioxidant action helps protect tissues from oxidative damage and supports the regeneration of endogenous antioxidants like glutathione. ALA also plays a role in maintaining normal insulin sensitivity and glucose utilization, and may help protect the lens of the eye from oxidative changes associated with cataracts.

COMMON VETERINARY USES
Species Studied
  • Dogs
  • Cats (with caution—see Contraindications & Sensitivities)
Primary Benefits for Pets
  • Antioxidant Support: Increases glutathione levels and protects against oxidative stress.
  • Liver Health: Supports detoxification and protects the liver from toxins.
  • Vision Support: Helps protect the lens from oxidative damage and supports eye health.
  • Neuroprotection: May help protect the nervous system and support cognitive function.
  • Metabolic Balance: Supports normal glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
Veterinary Use Cases
  • Supporting antioxidant defenses in aging or chronically ill dogs.
  • Managing diabetic dogs or those with metabolic syndrome.
  • Supporting liver health in pets with hepatic stress or exposure to toxins.
  • Protecting vision in dogs at risk for cataracts.
  • Providing neuroprotection in senior pets or those with cognitive decline.
CONTRAINDICATIONS & SENSITIVITIES

ALA is generally well tolerated in dogs at recommended doses (2.7–4.94 mg/kg body weight/day). However, cats are significantly more sensitive to ALA toxicity, with toxic effects occurring at much lower doses than in dogs. Signs of toxicity in pets, especially cats, include vomiting, ataxia, tremors, seizures, hypoglycemia, and liver or kidney damage. Never administer ALA to cats without direct veterinary supervision, and always store ALA supplements safely out of reach of pets.

INGREDIENT SOURCING & QUALITY STANDARDS

Alpha-lipoic acid used in veterinary supplements is synthesized to high purity standards and tested for potency and absence of contaminants. Dosing should be carefully calculated based on species and body weight, and supplements should be manufactured under GMP or equivalent quality standards.

RESEARCH AT A GLANCE
  1. Antioxidant and Glutathione Support: Clinical trials in dogs show that ALA supplementation increases intracellular glutathione and enhances antioxidant capacity, with no adverse effects at appropriate doses. URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7912130/
  2. Safety and Toxicity: Reviews confirm ALA is safe and effective for dogs at 2.7–4.94 mg/kg/day, but cats are extremely sensitive and can develop toxicity at much lower doses. URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8158713/
  3. Toxicity and Emergency Management: Veterinary toxicology sources emphasize the risk of ALA toxicity in cats (and at high doses in dogs), with symptoms including vomiting, hypoglycemia, ataxia, tremors, seizures, and organ damage. Prompt veterinary intervention is critical if accidental ingestion occurs. URL: https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/toxicoses-from-dietary-and-herbal-supplements/toxicoses-in-animals-from-human-dietary-and-herbal-supplements
TRADITIONAL APPLICATIONS

Alpha-lipoic acid is not a traditional herbal remedy, but its use as a metabolic and antioxidant supplement is well established in modern veterinary and human medicine for supporting cellular health, detoxification, and metabolic balance.

DISCLAIMER

This ingredient overview is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new supplements or making changes to your pet’s healthcare regimen.