Mixed Results in Using Lipoic Acid for Progressive Multiple Sclerosis Treatment
A recent study led by Oregon Health & Science University and the Portland VA Health Care System has shed light on the potential of lipoic acid as a treatment for progressive multiple sclerosis (MS). The findings, published in the journal Neurology, reveal both positive and negative aspects of this over-the-counter supplement.
The clinical trial, led by Dr. Rebecca Spain, involved 54 participants with primary and secondary progressive MS. Half of the participants took a daily 1,200-milligram dose of lipoic acid for two years, while the other half received a placebo. The primary outcome was measured by walking speed, a common indicator of MS progression.
Surprisingly, the study found that lipoic acid did not significantly improve walking speed, which was the primary clinical outcome. However, there was a notable finding in the secondary outcomes. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed that lipoic acid slowed the loss of gray matter in the brains of participants with progressive MS.
Dr. Spain explains, "While it didn't work clinically as hoped, the slowing of brain atrophy suggests we're on the right track. We need to explore better delivery methods for antioxidants like lipoic acid."
Multiple sclerosis affects the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers in the central nervous system, disrupting electrical signal transmission. Lipoic acid is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, potentially protecting damaged myelin and nerves. However, its effectiveness is limited by its inability to easily cross the blood-brain barrier.
The study builds upon previous research, including a mouse model and dose-finding studies, which initially showed promising results. However, the high dosage used in the trial led to side effects, such as a kidney condition triggered by certain medications, including lipoic acid.
Despite the mixed results, the study has sparked further research. The findings are being integrated into a larger project called Octopus, a multi-arm, multi-stage trial based in the UK. This project will test lipoic acid and metformin, another potential treatment, against a placebo in a larger participant group.
Dr. Spain is optimistic about the future of lipoic acid research, stating, "With the Octopus trial, we'll gain more insights into the value of lipoic acid for progressive MS patients."
The study was funded by various organizations, including the Department of Veterans Affairs, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, highlighting the collaborative nature of MS research.
