Can I take Alpha-lipoic acid 600 mg for multiple sclerosis?

Question

Hello doctor,

My niece, who is 14 years old, started experiencing double vision about a week ago. She recently had an MRI, and the neurologist mentioned it might be multiple sclerosis (MS). He pointed out several white spots (lesions) on her brain scan and stated that there is inflammation in her brain.

She’s been referred to an MS specialist in Philadelphia, but the earliest appointment isn’t for another two weeks.

In the meantime, is it safe for her to take any over-the-counter medications to help with the inflammation?
If so, which ones would you recommend, and what’s the appropriate dosage for her age?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Currently, there are no over-the-counter medications that effectively address inflammation associated with multiple sclerosis. Treatment typically involves high-dose corticosteroids, which require a prescription and careful medical supervision.

The good news is that this situation isn’t an emergency, so it is generally safe to wait for the upcoming appointment with the MS specialist.

In the meantime, your niece might benefit from taking Alpha-lipoic acid (600 mg twice daily), a supplement that may help reduce inflammation. It’s also a good idea to check her vitamin D levels; if they’re low, a vitamin D supplement could be beneficial.

I hope this helps.

Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions.

Thank you.