Name: China Manufacturer High Quality Good Service R-(+)-Lipoic Acid Sodium CAS 176110-81-9
Brand: Wuhan Fortuna Chemical Co., Ltd.

Specifications of R-(+)-Lipoic Acid Sodium CAS 176110-81-9

Items	Specifications	Results
Appearance	Off-white to light yellow powder	Conforms
Loss on drying	≤3.0%	0.9%
R-alpha lipoic acid	80.0%	85.5%
R-(+)-lipoic acid sodium	99.0%	99.9%

Parameters of R-(+)-Lipoic Acid Sodium CAS 176110-81-9

Product parameters
Cas number:	176110-81-9
Appearance:	Off-white to light yellow powder
Purity:	99%min
Package details:	1kg/foil bag; 25kg/drum
Brand:	Fortunachem

Sodium (R)-alpha-lipoate is the sodium salt of the naturally occurring R-form of alpha-lipoic acid (often abbreviated as NaRLA). To understand it, we must break down its name:

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA): A naturally occurring compound that acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body. It's both water and fat-soluble, allowing it to work throughout all cells.
The (R) and (S) Forms: Alpha-lipoic acid synthesized in a lab creates a 50/50 mixture of two mirror-image forms, called enantiomers: R-lipoic acid and S-lipoic acid. This mixture is known as "racemic" alpha-lipoic acid.
The (R)-form is the one that is identical to the lipoic acid produced naturally in the human body and found in food.
The (S)-form is not produced naturally and is believed to be less effective.
Sodium Salt: Bonding the R-lipoic acid to a sodium atom creates sodium (R)-alpha-lipoate. This form is much more soluble in water than the pure acid, leading to better absorption and higher bioavailability in the body.

In short, Sodium (R)-alpha-lipoate is a highly bioavailable form of the natural, active enantiomer of alpha-lipoic acid.

Key Properties and Significance

The primary importance of NaRLA lies in its enhanced bioavailability and potent biological activity.

1. Superior Bioavailability:
The sodium salt form dissolves more easily in the digestive tract than the acid form. Studies suggest that Sodium (R)-lipoate is absorbed up to 10-30 times more efficiently than the common racemic (50/50 R/S) alpha-lipoic acid supplements.

2. Potent Antioxidant:

Direct Free Radical Scavenger: It directly neutralizes a wide range of harmful free radicals.
Recycles Other Antioxidants: It has the unique ability to regenerate other key antioxidants in the body, such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, glutathione, and coenzyme Q10, back to their active states. This makes the entire antioxidant network more efficient.
Chelates Metals: It can bind (chelate) potentially toxic metal ions like mercury, arsenic, and iron, which can generate free radicals.

3. Insulin Sensitization:
ALA is well-known for its ability to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. It helps shuttle glucose into muscles independently of insulin. The (R)-form is specifically responsible for this activity. This is why it is extensively studied and used as a complementary therapy for diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage caused by diabetes).

4. Mitochondrial Function:
Lipoic acid is a essential cofactor for several key mitochondrial enzymes involved in energy (ATP) production. By supporting mitochondria, it enhances cellular energy metabolism.

Primary Applications and Uses

1. Dietary Supplements:
This is its most common application. It is marketed as a premium, high-potency form of ALA for:

Antioxidant Support: To combat oxidative stress and support overall health.
Blood Sugar Control: Used by individuals seeking to support healthy glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
Neuropathic Support: Particularly for the burning, pain, and numbness associated with diabetic neuropathy.
Liver Health: Supporting the body's natural detoxification pathways due to its role in recycling glutathione.
Cognitive Health: Its antioxidant properties may support brain health.

2. Clinical Research:
The (R)-form is the subject of ongoing scientific research for its potential benefits in:

Metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes
Neurological disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's, stroke)
Conditions involving high oxidative stress

3. Skincare:
Due to its potent antioxidant properties, it is sometimes included in high-end serums and creams to protect the skin from free radical damage and signs of aging.

Safety and Handling

Safety Profile: Sodium (R)-alpha-lipoate is generally considered safe for consumption at recommended dosages. It is well-tolerated.
Potential Side Effects: Some individuals may experience mild stomach upset or nausea, especially at high doses. Taking it with food can often mitigate this.
Important Consideration for Diabetics: Because it can significantly lower blood sugar, individuals with diabetes must monitor their blood glucose levels closely and consult a doctor before use, as medication adjustments may be necessary.

Summary

Sodium (R)-alpha-lipoate is a highly absorbable form of the natural and biologically active R-enantiomer of alpha-lipoic acid. It is considered a superior supplement due to its significantly enhanced bioavailability compared to standard racemic ALA. Its primary roles are as a powerful universal antioxidant, a recycler of other antioxidants, and an insulin sensitizer. It is primarily used to combat oxidative stress, support healthy blood sugar metabolism, and alleviate symptoms of diabetic neuropathy.