Question

I am a breastfeeding mother and i want to know if it is safe to use Lipoic Acid? Is Lipoic Acid safe for nursing mother and child? Does Lipoic Acid extracts into breast milk? Does Lipoic Acid has any long term or short term side effects on infants? Can Lipoic Acid influence milk supply or can Lipoic Acid decrease milk supply in lactating mothers?

Lipoic Acid lactation summary

Lipoic Acid usage has low risk in breastfeeding
  • DrLact safety Score for Lipoic Acid is 3 out of 8 which is considered Low Risk as per our analyses.
  • A safety Score of 3 indicates that usage of Lipoic Acid may cause some minor side effects in breastfed baby.
  • Our study of different scientific research indicates that Lipoic Acid may cause moderate to no side effects in lactating mother.
  • Most of scientific studies and research papers declaring usage of Lipoic Acid low risk in breastfeeding are based on normal dosage and may not hold true for higher dosage.
  • While using Lipoic Acid We suggest monitoring child for possible reactions. It is also important to understand that side effects vary largely based on age of breastfed child and time of medication in addition to dosage.
  • Score calculated using the DrLact safety Version 1.2 model, this score ranges from 0 to 8 and measures overall safety of drug in lactation. Scores are primarily calculated using publicly available case studies, research papers, other scientific journals and publically available data.

Answer by Dr. Ru: About Lipoic Acid usage in lactation

A fatty acid present in the body involved in metabolism which transforms glucose into energy. It is a powerful antioxidant which is synthesized in the body and also comes from external input (liver, meat, fish, green leafy vegetables, yeast). There is still no definitive scientific evidence for its usefulness in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy (Han 2012), hepatic dysfunction, certain encephalopathies, pain relief, glossodynia (Carbone 2009) and multiple sclerosis (Khalili 2014, Yadav 2010, Namaka 2008). It is generally well tolerated if the dosage and duration indicated in the manufacturer’s directions for use are not exceeded, but it can have adverse effects. Cases of autoimmune hypoglycemia syndrome (Michalopoulou 2015, Bresciani 2011, Uchigata 2007) have been attributed to its consumption, as has hepatic cholestasis (Ridruejo 2011), poisoning (Hadzik 2014, Karaarslan 2013) and seizures, especially in children (Tolunay 2015). Dermatitis has been reported due to contact with an anti-aging cream containing lipoic acid (Bergqvist 2006). Since the last update we have not found published data on its excretion in breast milk. It has been used to treat postpartum perineal pain without presenting problems during breastfeeding (Costantino 2015). Consumption in moderate doses following medical prescription would have little risk during breastfeeding. When used topically, do not apply to the nipple so as to avoid its ingestion by the infant.

Alternate Drugs for Aminoacids, Enzymes and other Alimentary tract and Metabolism products. ATC A09 & A16

Disclaimer: Information presented in this database is not meant as a substitute for professional judgment. You should consult your healthcare provider for breastfeeding advice related to your particular situation. We do not warrant or assume any liability or responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the information on this Site.