The Role of R-Alpha Lipoic Acid in the Treatment of Atherosclerotic Vascular Disease

The Role of R-alpha Lipoic Acid in the Treatment of Atherosclerotic Vascular Disease

The purpose of this study is to see if a dietary supplement, R-alpha lipoic acid, is able to reduce risk factors in people with documented heart disease and increased levels of inflammation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Documented congestive heart disease (CHD)(defined as at least one significant coronary stenosis > 50% on angiography, or history of documented myocardial infarction)
• Not diagnosed with unstable angina, uncontrolled hypertension, heart failure, recent myocardial infarction (within last six months)
• Not taking insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents, anti-inflammatory drugs other than aspirin, or hormone replacement therapy
• On stable doses for four weeks prior to entry of lipid-lowering therapy (statins), aspirin, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or other blood pressure medications. P
• No tobacco use within 3 months of the study
• No laboratory evidence of renal, hepatic, or hematological abnormalities
• Not currently taking vitamin or antioxidant supplements, including R-alpha lipoic acid, except standard multivitamin/mineral supplements containing not more than the Daily Value (DV) of the vitamins and minerals;
• Elevated levels of urinary and plasma F2-isoprostanes
• Elevated plasma levels of hs-CRP