alpha-lipoic acid/benfotiamine/chromium/folic acid/mecobalamin / vit b6

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

Action: 

alpha-lipoic acid: alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism. It helps convert glucose into energy and can improve insulin sensitivity. ALA also acts as a free radical scavenger, protecting cells from oxidative damage. 

benfotiamine: benfotiamine is known for improving cellular thiamine levels and reducing glycation, a process that can damage proteins and contribute to diabetic complications. 

chromium: chromium improves insulin’s ability to work, which helps control blood sugar levels by facilitating glucose uptake into cells. 

folic acid: folic acid, an essential B vitamin, plays a pivotal role in DNA synthesis, cellular division, and the creation of red blood cells. Its importance is particularly pronounced in safeguarding against neural tube defects in the developing fetus during pregnancy. 

mecobalamin: mecobalamin is a form of vitamin B12. It is essential for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and the production of red blood cells. mecobalamin is particularly important for maintaining healthy nerves. 

vitamin B6: vitamin B6 involved more than a hundred enzymatic reactions within the human body, including those related to protein metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and immune function.   

Spectrum: 

alpha-lipoic acid has a broad spectrum of actions, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic support. It is often used as a dietary supplement to support individuals with diabetes, neuropathy, and various conditions associated with oxidative stress. 

benfotiamine primarily acts as an advanced glycation end product (AGE) inhibitor and can help manage conditions related to diabetes and neuropathy. It is often used as a supplement to support overall nerve health and mitigate the complications of high blood sugar levels. 

chromium primarily acts as an insulin sensitizer and is a dietary supplement to support people with diabetes or individuals seeking to enhance their blood sugar management. 

folic acid primarily acts as a coenzyme in various metabolic pathways, supporting cell growth and repair. It is commonly used as a supplement during pregnancy and for individuals with certain genetic conditions or anemia. 

mecobalamin primarily acts as a cofactor in converting homocysteine to methionine and in various neurological processes. vitamin B6 is a coenzyme in various biochemical reactions, making it essential for overall health. It is used as a supplement to support nervous system function, immune health, and in cases of vitamin B6 deficiency. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Allergic sensitization 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning:  

None

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution:  

Allergic Reactions: People with established allergies or sensitivities to any of the elements in this combination must avoid using this combination. 

Medication Interactions: These supplements can interact with various medications, including  

alpha-lipoic acid: May interact with medications for diabetes, chemotherapy drugs, and thyroid medications. 

chromium: May interact with medications that affect blood sugar levels. 

folic acid: Interactions can occur with certain anticonvulsant medications, methotrexate, and some antibiotics. 

mecobalamin: May interact with medications such as metformin and certain antibiotics. 

vitamin B6: Interactions can occur with certain medications, including levodopa and antiepileptic drugs. 

Diabetes: alpha-lipoic acid, chromium, and some B vitamins can affect blood sugar levels. Individuals with diabetes should use these supplements with caution and under medical supervision. 

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: High doses of some of these supplements may not be safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult a healthcare provider for guidance. 

Kidney Problems: High doses of specific B vitamins, including vitamin B6, can harm individuals with kidney problems. Consult with a healthcare provider if you are facing issues with your kidneys. 

Neuropathy or Nerve Damage: While some supplements support nerve health, individuals with pre-existing neuropathy or nerve damage should consult a healthcare provider before using them. 

Gastrointestinal Problems: Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort when taking these supplements. If you have gastrointestinal issues, consult a healthcare provider. 

Hypersensitivity and Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be hypersensitive or allergic to one or more of these supplements. Therefore avoid using this combination.  

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: Excreted into human milk is unknown 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were a lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

alpha-lipoic acid is a potent antioxidant crucial in safeguarding cells against oxidative stress and potential harm. 

benfotiamine represents a synthetic variation of vitamin B1 (thiamine), boasting enhanced bioavailability. 

chromium is a crucial trace mineral that improves insulin’s ability to function in the body. 

folic acid is a B vitamin crucial in DNA synthesis and repair. 

mecobalamin is a form of vitamin B12 readily absorbed by the body. 

vitamin B6 is crucial in more than 100 enzymatic processes within the human body. 

Pharmacodynamics:  

alpha-lipoic acid  

It boosts glucose uptake in cells, enhances insulin sensitivity, and regulates blood sugar levels. 

alpha-lipolic acid can regenerate other antioxidants like vitamins C and E, extending their activity in the body. 

It may have neuroprotective properties and be beneficial for nerve health. 

benfotiamine 

benfotiamine supports nerve health and may alleviate symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. 

chromium 

chromium supplementation may benefit individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes. 

folic acid 

It is crucial in promoting cellular growth and division, especially during pregnancy, to mitigate neural tube defects. Additionally, folic acid is actively engaged in homocysteine metabolism, decreasing the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disorders. 

mecobalamin 

mecobalamin supplementation can help treat or prevent vitamin B12 deficiency, leading to anemia and neurological symptoms. 

vitamin B6  

vitamin B6 supports overall health, particularly nerve health and cognitive function. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption 

alpha-lipolic acid is well-absorbed in the small intestine. Its absorption may be enhanced when taken with food. 

benfotiamine is absorbed in the small intestine. 

chromium absorption can vary depending on its chemical form and dietary factors. It is generally absorbed in the small intestine. 

folic acid is taken up in the small intestine, specifically the duodenum.  

mecobalamin is a form of Vitamin B12 and is absorbed in the ileum, the lower part of the small intestine. 

vitamin B6, known as pyridoxine, is absorbed in the small intestine. 

Distribution 

Once absorbed, these substances are distributed through the bloodstream to various tissues and organs. Distribution may vary depending on individual factors and the body’s specific needs. 

Metabolism 

alpha-lipolic acid undergoes rapid metabolism in the liver and is converted into its active form, dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA). 

benfotiamine is metabolized in the liver into active thiamine derivatives. 

chromium is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine and does not undergo significant metabolism. 

folic acid transforms into a biologically active state, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), in the liver. 

mecobalamin does not require metabolic conversion and is directly available for cellular use. 

vitamin B6 is metabolized in the liver to its active coenzyme forms, pyridoxal phosphate (PLP) and pyridoxamine phosphate (PMP). 

Excretion and Elimination 

alpha-lipolic acid and its metabolite DHLA are excreted primarily in the urine. 

benfotiamine and its metabolites are eliminated through urine and feces. 

chromium is primarily excreted in the urine. 

Excess folic acid is excreted in urine. 

mecobalamin is excreted in urine, with a small portion eliminated in feces. 

vitamin B6 is excreted in urine. 

Adminstartion

Administration:  

The route of administration is oral. 

The specific dosages and the need for these supplements can vary depending on individual health conditions and goals.  

It’s always important to discuss with medical professional before starting any supplement. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: alpha-lipoic acid/benfotiamine/chromium / folic acid/mecobalamin / vit b6 

Why do we use alpha-lipoic acid/benfotiamine/chromium / folic acid/mecobalamin / vit b6?  

This combination medication is effective in  

diabetic neuropathy management, it can help improve nerve function, reduce pain, and support blood sugar control.  

This combination medication is effective in  

energy and metabolism Support. 

Combining them can help combat fatigue, improve energy levels, and promote overall metabolic health. 

The combination is effective in heart health management. This can help lower homocysteine levels, associated with an increased risk of heart disease. 

This combination is effective in brain and nervous system health. Combining them can support brain health and may be used in conditions like dementia or memory loss.  

The combination is effective in mood and mental Health management, may be used to support mood and mental well-being.