Alpha Lipoic Acid and Q10 use in Dysautonomia

[mtgardner]

Has anyone had experience with using Alpha Lipoic Acid and or Q10  supplements as part of their tx ?  I read on one of  Mayo's sites that there have been no studies but that it might be possibly helpful. Supposedly the Alpha Lipoic Acid can effect thyroid function.  Not sure in what way up or down, so  for sure it would need to be done under medical supervision.  Not sure if using Q10 has negative side effects.  Marie

[mtgardner]

Thanks for the feedback.  It seems glucose levels are lowered by Lipoic Acid as well.  Seems like there is a lot to look at on supplements before considering them.  

[enzymelover]

  I wish I could say yes, as Lipoic Acid and CoQ10 were both prescribed for my son (after i got back his metabolic function test). Lipoic Acid smells horrible, so my son wouldn't take it, or use the skin cream. I didn't know it could affect thyroid function, it was prescribed for carbohydrate metabolism.
He has been taking a little CoQ10 for awhile, based on an elevation of hydroxymethylglutarate on his test. (This is a metabolite of CoQ10 synthesis). However, it is the dry, tablet form (tasty!), and supposedly, the oil form is better absorbed. I haven't noticed any positive effects that i can attribute to the CoQ10, but then, he has so many things wrong with him, only another test for this metabolite, showing a lower level of excretion, will tell me if it is working.

CoQ10 is said to be a superior antioxidant, with no negative affects, however, I did read that in cases of hypoxia, or low oxygen conditions, it can stop acting as an antioxidant, and start producing nasty free radicals. So, Idebenone, a synthetic form of CoQ10, is considered safer, and superior, in this situation.

Depending on your need, Idebenone might work better for you (and my son, though we have not tried this yet).
I occasionally take CoQ10, as a general health supplement.