Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Slin Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by LG Sciences

Capsule Category: Other Combinations
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Slin is a dietary supplement by LG Sciences with 4 active ingredients. Its ingredients are commonly taken for diabetic nerve pain (neuropathy), blood sugar support in diabetes, antioxidant support.Based on those ingredients, 738 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Cinnamon extract, Momordica charantia, Alpha Lipoic Acid. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Slin by LG Sciences

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Low disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Low

Most active ingredients don't disclose an individual amount — you can't tell how much of each you're getting.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 4 active ingredients.
  • “Insulin Potentiator Complex” is a proprietary blend — the label gives one combined amount (630 mg) without saying how much of each component you get.

Slin contains four active ingredients. Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that may help with nerve damage from diabetes and cholesterol levels.

Vanadyl sulfate is a form of vanadium, a trace mineral, thought to support blood sugar control. Cinnamon extract comes from cassia cinnamon and is traditionally used in herbal medicine.

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) is a plant used in traditional medicine for blood sugar support. The product also includes an Insulin Potentiator Complex — a proprietary blend whose individual components aren't listed on the label.

The remaining ingredients are inactive fillers and capsule materials.

Does it work?

Moderate evidence
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Moderate

Some clinical evidence supports this product's ingredients for its stated purpose, but it isn't conclusive.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: help anabolic effect of food and muscle growth.
  • We looked for evidence on: Athletic performance, Muscle strength, Diabetes, Impaired glucose tolerance (prediabetes), Metabolic syndrome, Dyslipidemia — and 4 related terms.
  • The strongest evidence on file: Alpha-lipoic Acid is rated "Possibly Effective" for Hyperlipidemia (Natural Medicines).
  • Also on file: Alpha-lipoic Acid is rated "Possibly Ineffective" for Diabetes.
  • Also on file: Vanadium is rated "Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate" for Athletic performance, Diabetes, Hyperlipidemia, Impaired glucose tolerance (prediabetes).

According to the evidence we hold, alpha-lipoic acid is possibly effective for diabetic nerve pain (neuropathy) and high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia). Vanadium is likely effective for vanadium deficiency, but evidence for diabetes, athletic performance, cancer, or cholesterol is insufficient.

Cinnamon extract and bitter melon both lack reliable evidence for the conditions listed — including diabetes, high cholesterol, and digestive issues. Because this product is marketed for blood sugar support, it's worth noting that strong evidence for most of its ingredients in that role is not established in the data we hold.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Alpha-lipoic Acid Vanadium Cassia Cinnamon Bitter Melon

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 4 of the 4 matched ingredients.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 4 of 4.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 4 of 4.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Alpha-lipoic acid is generally well tolerated but can lower blood sugar, so use it under medical guidance if you have diabetes. Common side effects include headache, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting.

Skin rash and itching have been reported. Avoid it during pregnancy and breastfeeding — there isn't enough safety data.

Vanadyl sulfate is well tolerated at dietary levels but may cause stomach upset (nausea, diarrhea, gas, belly discomfort) at supplement doses above the safe upper limit. Long-term high doses can damage the kidneys.

Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Cinnamon extract in food amounts is generally safe, but large supplement doses over time may harm the liver due to coumarin content; avoid high-dose supplements in pregnancy, though food amounts are likely fine.

Bitter melon is usually well tolerated as food but may cause stomach upset, dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, and diarrhea at supplement doses. Avoid during pregnancy (seeds and high doses have traditionally been considered harmful); breastfeeding safety isn't well established.

A rare case of kidney injury has been reported with long-term high-dose bitter melon.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Alpha-lipoic Acid Vanadium Cassia Cinnamon Bitter Melon

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 4 of the 4 matched ingredients can interact with medications — Vanadium, Alpha-lipoic Acid, Bitter Melon, Cassia Cinnamon.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs; cancer treatments; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 739 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before you take Slin, double-check with your pharmacist if you're on blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs like warfarin or aspirin — alpha-lipoic acid may increase bleeding risk (Moderate). If you take diabetes medications, all four active ingredients may lower your blood sugar further, raising the risk of dangerously low glucose — doses may need adjusting (Moderate).

Tell your pharmacist if you're on chemotherapy drugs (alkylating agents or antitumor antibiotics), thyroid hormone replacement, liver-toxic drugs, or the cancer drug pazopanib — alpha-lipoic acid and cinnamon may reduce their effectiveness, while bitter melon may raise pazopanib levels (all Moderate). No interactions are documented for the Insulin Potentiator Complex because its components aren't individually listed.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFormula with limited ingredient disclosure with some supporting evidence for its stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Slin is aimed at people interested in natural blood sugar support, but the evidence for most of its ingredients is limited. Anyone taking blood thinners, diabetes medications, thyroid medication, chemotherapy, or the cancer drug pazopanib should talk with their pharmacist or doctor before starting — the interactions are real and could affect how your drugs work or your safety.

If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have diabetes, this product warrants a conversation with your healthcare provider first.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 4 of 4 active ingredients matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Nov 25, 2011.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Slin, straight from the product label.

Brand LG Sciences
Barcode (UPC) 850593000518
Net contents 120 Capsule(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Nov 25, 2011
DSLD ID 1892
Product type Other Combinations
Supplement form Capsule
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years)
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Slin by LG Sciences, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
2 Capsule(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
4 Capsule(s)
Servings per container
120
UPC/BARCODE
850593000518
IngredientAmount% DV
Alpha Lipoic Acid125 mg--
Vanadyl Sulfate0 NP--
Cinnamon extract0 NP--
Insulin Potentiator Complex630 mg--
Momordica charantia0 NP--

Other ingredients: DiCalcium Phosphate Dihidrate, Magnesium Stearate, Gelatin, FD&C Red Dye #40, FD&C Blue Dye #1, Titanium Dioxide

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

DIRECTIONS: Take 2-4 caps prior to meals to help the anabolic effect of food.

Precautions

KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

Consult your physician before using this dietary supplement. Do not use this product if you are at risk or are being treated for high blood pressure, heart, kidney, thyroid, or psychiatric disease, difficulty in urinating, prostate enlargement, anxiety, depression, seizure disorder, or stroke. Consult your healthcare professional before use if you are taking antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, or any other prescription drugs. Discontinue use and consult your healthcare professional if dizziness, sleeplessness, tremors, nervousness, headache or heart palpitations occur. Consult your healthcare practitioner before beginning any weight loss program.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

**These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

General Statements

ADVANCED INSULIN POTENTIATOR

Brand IP Statement(s)

SLIN(TM) is the most advanced insulin potentiator on the market. INSULIN is used in elite bodybuilding circles to force more nutrients into muscle cells, thereby giving you increased growth. Unfortunately, INSULIN is illegal and dangerous if used improperly. SLIM(TM) is the safe, legal alternative that will give you similar results without side effects! Trust people at LG Sciences(TM) to bring the best quality, safety innovation in the industry.

FDA Statement of Identity

DIETARY SUPPLEMENT

See for yourself

Slin by LG Sciences label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Slin by LG Sciences

These are the 4 active ingredients this product is made of. Select any to open its full monograph.

Serving size2 Capsule(s) Dosage formCapsule Servings per container120 Amounts shown are per serving.

Most supplement products combine several ingredients, and a medication can interact with the product through any one of them. Each ingredient below shows whether it has known drug interactions.

Alpha Lipoic Acid

Interacts with
263 drugs
125 mg per serving

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant made naturally by the body and found in small amounts in foods. It is most studied for diabetic nerve pain,...

Alpha Lipoic Acid monograph & interactions

Insulin Potentiator Complex

630 mg per serving

Other (inactive) ingredients: DiCalcium Phosphate Dihidrate, Magnesium Stearate, Gelatin, FD&C Red Dye #40, FD&C Blue Dye #1, Titanium Dioxide. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Slin by LG Sciences Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Slin?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
738Drugs
738 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Slin with known interactions, here are the types of medications they can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Cinnamon extract2 drug types · 442 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, cassia cinnamon may have additive effects with antidiabetes drugs.
Cassia cinnamon may lower blood glucose levels, and have additive effects in patients treated with antidiabetic agents. Dose adjustments to diabetes medications might be necessary.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Hepatotoxic Drugs

Theoretically, large doses of cassia cinnamon might cause additive effects when used with hepatotoxic drugs.
There is some concern that ingesting large amounts of cassia cinnamon for an extended duration might cause hepatotoxicity in some people. Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, which can cause hepatotoxicity in animal models. In humans, very high doses of coumarin from 50-7000 mg/day can result in hepatotoxicity that resolves when coumarin use is discontinued. Lower amounts might also cause liver problems in sensitive people, such as those with liver disease or those taking potentially hepatotoxic agents.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Momordica charantia3 drug types · 282 drugs

Antidiabetes Drugs

Taking bitter melon with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Bitter melon can lower blood glucose levels and might have additive effects when used with antidiabetes drugs. This might increase the risk of hypoglycemia in some patients. Monitor blood glucose levels closely.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of P-glycoprotein substrates.
Bitter melon might inhibit the p-glycoprotein (P-gp) intestinal pump and increase intracellular levels of P-gp substrates. In vitro research in intestinal cells shows that 1-monopalmitin, a constituent of bitter melon, increases levels of daunomycin, a P-gp substrate. Additionally, drinking bitter melon juice has been associated with a case of acute pancreatitis in a patient who had been taking pazopanib, a P-gp substrate, for 8 years. Researchers theorize that inhibition of P-gp led to increased levels of pazopanib, resulting in pazopanib-induced pancreatitis.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Pazopanib (Votrient)

Theoretically, bitter melon might increase levels of pazopanib, potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects.
In one case, a 65-year-old patient taking pazopanib for 8 years for renal cell carcinoma experienced signs and symptoms consistent with acute pancreatitis 4 days after drinking bitter melon juice at a dose of 100-150 mL daily. The patient's symptoms, amylase levels, and lipase levels improved upon discontinuation of bitter melon and pazopanib. Pazopanib treatment was re-initiated with no further evidence of pancreatitis. Researchers theorize that inhibition of P-glycoprotein by bitter melon led to increased levels of pazopanib, a P-glycoprotein substrate, resulting in pazopanib-induced pancreatitis.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D

Alpha Lipoic Acid5 drug types · 263 drugs

Alkylating Agents

Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of alpha-lipoic acid might alter the effectiveness of alkylating agents.
The use of antioxidants like alpha-lipoic acid during chemotherapy is controversial. There are concerns that antioxidants could reduce the activity of chemotherapy drugs that generate free radicals. However, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that might interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid have on chemotherapy. Advise patients to consult their oncologist before using alpha-lipoic acid.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, alpha-lipoic acid may have antiplatelet effects and may increase the risk of bleeding if used with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro, alpha-lipoic acid inhibits platelet aggregation.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antitumor Antibiotics

Theoretically, the antioxidant effects of alpha-lipoic acid might alter the effectiveness of antitumor antibiotics.
The use of antioxidants like alpha-lipoic acid during chemotherapy is controversial. There are concerns that antioxidants could reduce the activity of antitumor antibiotic drugs, which work by generating free radicals. However, some researchers theorize that antioxidants might make chemotherapy more effective by reducing oxidative stress that might interfere with apoptosis (cell death) of cancer cells. More evidence is needed to determine what effect, if any, antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid have on chemotherapy involving antitumor antibiotics. Advise patients to consult their oncologist before using alpha-lipoic acid.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Thyroid Hormone

Theoretically, alpha-lipoic acid might decrease the effects of thyroid hormone drugs.
Animal research suggests that co-administration of thyroxine with alpha-lipoic acid reduces conversion into the active T3 form.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking alpha-lipoic acid with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Although some small clinical studies have suggested that alpha-lipoic acid can lower blood glucose levels, larger clinical studies in patients with diabetes have shown no clinically meaningful effect. Additionally, co-administration of single doses of alpha-lipoic acid and glyburide or acarbose did not cause detectable drug interactions in healthy volunteers.

Likelihood Unlikely Evidence B

Vanadyl Sulfate2 drug types · 208 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro research shows that the sodium orthovanadate form of vanadium prolongs clotting time, likely through inhibition of thrombin and factor Xa.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, vanadium might increase the risk of hypoglycemia when taken with antidiabetes drugs.
A few very small clinical studies in patients with type 2 diabetes show that the vanadyl sulfate form of vanadium increases insulin sensitivity and might lower blood glucose levels.

Likelihood Probable Evidence B
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Slin, from the product label.

LG Sciences

See all LG Sciences products
Name
LG Sciences LLC
Street Address
7259 West Sahara, Suite 120
City
Las Vegas
State
NV
ZipCode
89117
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Slin by LG Sciences: Common Questions

Does Slin by LG Sciences interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Slin has a known interaction with 738 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Slin contains 4 active ingredients, and an interaction can come from any of them. We check every ingredient, combine the results into one list per medication, and show which ingredient and mechanism is responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Can I take Slin if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
No, not without talking to your doctor first. Alpha-lipoic acid and vanadyl sulfate lack enough safety data in pregnancy and breastfeeding, so they're best avoided. Bitter melon is traditionally avoided in pregnancy because high doses may harm the uterus, and safety in breastfeeding isn't established. Cinnamon extract in food amounts is likely safe, but high-dose supplement amounts should be avoided in pregnancy. Each ingredient raises concerns here.
Will Slin lower my blood sugar?
All four active ingredients in this product may lower blood glucose, so there's a real risk — especially if you already take diabetes medication. Some clinical studies show alpha-lipoic acid has only modest effects in actual diabetes patients, but the theoretical risk remains. If you have diabetes, your blood sugar should be monitored closely, and your medication dose may need adjusting. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting.
What are the most common side effects?
Alpha-lipoic acid commonly causes headache, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. Vanadyl sulfate and bitter melon both frequently cause stomach upset — nausea, diarrhea, gas, belly discomfort, and heartburn. Skin rash has been reported with alpha-lipoic acid and cinnamon extract. Most of these are mild, but stop and contact your pharmacist if they don't improve.
Is there strong evidence that Slin works for blood sugar control?
Not really. Alpha-lipoic acid is possibly effective for diabetic nerve pain, but evidence for blood sugar itself is weak — larger studies in actual diabetes patients show no meaningful effect. For vanadium, cinnamon, and bitter melon, the evidence for diabetes is insufficient. This product is marketed for blood sugar support, but the science backing that claim is thin.
Can I take Slin with my thyroid medication?
Not without checking with your pharmacist first. Alpha-lipoic acid may decrease how well thyroid hormone replacement works by blocking conversion to its active form. Your thyroid levels could drop, and you might need a dose adjustment. Your pharmacist can advise whether it's safe in your case.
What's in the Insulin Potentiator Complex?
The label lists it as a proprietary blend but doesn't break down its individual ingredients, so we can't tell you exactly what's in it or how it might interact with your medications. Ask the manufacturer or your pharmacist for the full ingredient list if you need that information.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Slin label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Slin's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 101 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Alpha-lipoic Acid 48 references
  1. Labriola D, Livingston R. Possible interactions between dietary antioxidants and chemotherapy. Oncology 1999;13:1003-8.
  2. Anon. Alpha-lipoic acid. Altern Med Rev 1998;3:308-10.
  3. Konrad T, Vicini P, Kusterer K, et al. Alpha-lipoic acid treatment decreases serum lactate and pyruvate concentrations and improves glucose effectiveness in lean and obese patients with Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care 1999;22:280-7. PubMed
  4. Ziegler D, Hanefeld M, Ruhnau KJ, et al. Treatment of symptomatic diabetic peripheral neuropathy with the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid: A 3-week, multicentre randomized controlled trial (ALADIN Study). Diabetologia 1995;38:1425-33.
  5. Gleiter CH, Schreeb KH, Freudenthaler S, et al. Lack of interaction between thioctic acid, glibenclamide and acarbose. Br J Clin Pharmacol 1999;48:819-25. PubMed
  6. Jacob S, Henriksen EJ, Tritschler HJ, et al. Improvement of insulin-stimulated glucose-disposal in type 2 diabetes after repeated parenteral administration of thioctic acid. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabet 1996;104:284-8. PubMed
  7. Jacob S, Henriksen EJ, Schiemann AL, et al. Enhancement of glucose disposal in patients with type 2 diabetes by alpha-lipoic acid. Arzneimittelforschung 1995;45:872-4.
  8. Jacob S, Ruus P, Hermann R, et al. Oral administration of RAC-alpha-lipoic acid modulates insulin sensitivity in patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: a placebo-controlled, pilot trial. Free Rad Biol Med 1999;27:309-14.
  9. Segermann J, Hotze A, Ulrich H, Rao GS. Effect of alpha-lipoic acid on the peripheral conversion of thyroxine to triiodothyronine and on serum lipid-, protein- and glucose levels. Arzneimittelforschung 1991;41:1294-8.
  10. Beitner H. Randomized, placebo controlled, double-blind study on the clinical efficacy of a cream containing 5% alpha-lipoic acid related to photoaging of facial skin. Br J Dermatol 2003;149:841-9.
  11. Ziegler D, Nowak H, Kempler P, et al. Treatment of symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy with the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid: A meta-analysis. Diabet Med 2004;21:114-21.
  12. Prasad KN. Rationale for using high-dose multiple dietary antioxidants as an adjunct to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. J Nutr 2004;134:3182S-3S. PubMed
  13. Conklin KA. Cancer chemotherapy and antioxidants. J Nutr 2004;134:3201S-3204S. PubMed
  14. Vincent HK, Bourguignon CM, Vincent KR, Taylor AG. Effects of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation in peripheral arterial disease: a pilot study. J Alt Complement Med 2007;13:577-84. PubMed
  15. Furukawa N, Miyamura N, Nishida K, et al. Possible relevance of alpha lipoic acid contained in a health supplement in a case of insulin autoimmune syndrome. Diabetes Res Clin Pract 2007;75:366-7. PubMed
  16. Ziegler D., Ametov A., Barinov A., Dyck P. J., Gurieva I., Low P. A., Munzel U., Yakhno N., Raz I., Novosadova M., Maus J., Samigullin, R. Oral treatment with alpha-lipoic acid improves symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy: the SYDNEY 2 trial. Diabetes Car
  17. Gu X. M., Zhang S. S., Wu J. C., Tang Z. Y., Lu Z. Q., Li H., Liu C., Chen L., Ning, G. [Efficacy and safety of high-dose a-lipoic acid in the treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy]. Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi 2010;90(35):2473-2476.
  18. Porasuphatana S., Suddee S., Nartnampong A., Konsil J., Harnwong B., Santaweesuk A. Glycemic and oxidative status of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus following oral administration of alpha-lipoic acid: a randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled
  19. Ansar H., Mazloom Z., Kazemi F., Hejazi N. Effect of alpha-lipoic acid on blood glucose, insulin resistance and glutathione peroxidase of type 2 diabetic patients. Saudi Med J 2011;32(6):584-588. DOI
  20. de Oliveira A. M., Rondó P. H., Luzia L. A., D'Abronzo F. H., Illison V. K. The effects of lipoic acid and a-tocopherol supplementation on the lipid profile and insulin sensitivity of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, double-blind, pla
  21. Mazloom Z., Ansar H. The Effect of Alpha-Lipoic Acid on Blood Pressure in Type 2 Diabetics. Iranian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism 2009;11(3):245-250.
  22. Volchegorskii I. A., Rassokhina L. M., Koliadich M. I., Alekseev M. I. [Comparative study of alpha-lipoic acid and mexidol effects on affective status, cognitive functions and quality of life in diabetes mellitus patients]. Eksp Klin Farmakol 2011;74(11):
  23. Cavalcanti D. R., da Silveira F. R. Alpha lipoic acid in burning mouth syndrome--a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. J Oral Pathol Med 2009;38(3):254-261. PubMed
  24. Koh E. H., Lee W. J., Lee S. A., Kim E. H., Cho E. H., Jeong E., Kim D. W., Kim M. S., Park J. Y., Park K. G., Lee H. J., Lee I. K., Lim S., Jang H. C., Lee K. H., Lee K. U. Effects of alpha-lipoic Acid on body weight in obese subjects. Am J Med 2011;124( PubMed
  25. Bergqvist-Karlsson, A., Thelin, I., and Bergendorff, O. Contact dermatitis to alpha-lipoic acid in an anti-wrinkle cream. Contact Dermatitis 2006;55(1):56-57.
  26. Tang, J., Wingerchuk, D. M., Crum, B. A., Rubin, D. I., and Demaerschalk, B. M. Alpha-lipoic acid may improve symptomatic diabetic polyneuropathy. Neurologist. 2007;13(3):164-167. PubMed
  27. Hegazy SK, Tolba OA, Mostafa TM, Eid MA, El-Afify DR. Alpha-lipoic acid improves subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in asymptomatic patients with type 1 diabetes. Rev Diabet Stud 2013;10(1):58-67. PubMed
  28. Huang Z, Wan X, Liu J, et al. Short-term continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion combined with insulin sensitizers rosiglitazone, metformin, or antioxidant a-lipoic acid in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus. Diabetes Technol Ther 201
  29. Sarezky D, Raquib AR, Dunaief JL, Kim BJ. Tolerability in the elderly population of high-dose alpha lipoic acid: a potential antioxidant therapy for the eye. Clin Ophthalmol. 2016 Sep 29;10:1899-1903. PubMed
  30. Boriani F, Granchi D, Roatti G, Merlini L, Sabattini T, Baldini N. Alpha-lipoic acid after median nerve decompression at the carpal tunnel: a randomized controlled trial. J Hand Surg Am. 2017 Apr;42(4):236-42. PubMed
  31. Karkabounas S, Papadopoulos N, Anastasiadou C, et al. Effects of a-lipoic Acid, carnosine, and thiamine supplementation in obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized, double-blind study. J Med Food. 2018;21(12):1197-1203.
  32. Murray GL, Colombo J. (r)Alpha lipoic acid is a safe, effective pharmacologic therapy of chronic orthostatic hypotension associated with low sympathetic tone. Int J Angiol. 2019;28(3):188-193. PubMed
  33. Bobe G, Michels AJ, Zhang WJ, et al. A randomized controlled trial of long-term (R)-α-lipoic acid supplementation promotes weight loss in overweight or obese adults without altering baseline elevated plasma triglyceride concentrations. J Nutr. 2020:
  34. Passiatore M, Perna A, De-Vitis R, Taccardo G. The use of alfa-lipoic acid-R (ALA-R) in patients with mild-moderate carpal tunnel syndrome: A randomised controlled open label prospective study. Malays Orthop J. 2020;14(1):1-6. PubMed
  35. El-Nahas MR, Elkannishy G, Abdelhafez H, Elkhamisy ET, El-Sehrawy AA. Oral alpha lipoic acid treatment for symptomatic diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled study. Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets. 2020. PubMed
  36. Kim BJ, Hunter A, Brucker AJ, et al. Orally administered alpha lipoic acid as a treatment for geographic atrophy: A randomized clinical trial. Ophthalmol Retina. 2020;4(9):889-898. PubMed
  37. Derosa G, D'Angelo A, Preti P, Maffioli P. Safety and efficacy of alpha lipoic acid during 4 years of observation: A retrospective, clinical trial in healthy subjects in primary prevention. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2020;14:5367-5374.
  38. Sun Y, Guan X, Wang H, et al. Randomized clinical trial of combined therapy with oral a-lipoic acid and NB-UVB for nonsegmental stable vitiligo. Dermatol Ther. 2021;34(1):e14610.
  39. Gilron I, Robb S, Tu D, et al. Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial of alpha-lipoic acid for the treatment of fibromyalgia pain: the IMPALA trial. Pain. 2021;162(2):561-568. PubMed
  40. Gullo D, Evans JL, Sortino G, Goldfine ID, Vigneri R. Insulin autoimmune syndrome (Hirata Disease) in European Caucasians taking a-lipoic acid. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). 2014;81(2):204-9.
  41. Yukina M, Nuralieva N, Solovyev M, Troshina E, Vasilyev E. Insulin autoimmune syndrome. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab Case Rep. 2020;2020:19-0159. PubMed
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  45. Jibril AT, Jayedi A, Shab-Bidar S. Efficacy and safety of oral alpha-lipoic acid supplementation for type 2 diabetes management: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized trials. Endocr Connect 2022;11(10):e220322. PubMed
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  47. Velasco-Amador JP, Prados-Carmona Á, Navarro-Triviño FJ. Contact urticaria syndrome caused by alpha-lipoic acid in a master formula for vulvar lichen sclerosus. Contact Dermatitis 2023;89(2):136-137. PubMed
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Vanadium 15 references
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Cassia Cinnamon 20 references
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  19. Bernaola J, Valverde-Monge M, Otal-Buesa M, Cullen D, Heras-Mendaza F. Cinnamon allergic contact cheilitis. Contact Dermatitis 2023;88(5):418-419. PubMed
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Bitter Melon 18 references
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  2. Welihinda J, et al. Effect of Momordica charantia on the glucose tolerance in maturity onset diabetes. J Ethnopharmacol 1986;17:277-82. PubMed
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  17. Chattopadhyay K, Wang H, Kaur J, et al. Effectiveness and Safety of Ayurvedic Medicines in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Management: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13:821810. Published 2022 Jun 8. PubMed
  18. Kim B, Lee HS, Kim HJ, et al. Momordica charantia (bitter melon) efficacy and safety on glucose metabolism in Korean prediabetes participants: a 12-week, randomized clinical study. Food Sci Biotechnol 2022;32(5):697-704. PubMed

See these in context on the Bitter Melon monograph →

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DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

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