lipoic acid

noun

li·​po·​ic acid lī-ˈpō-ik-  li- 

: any of several microbial growth factors

especially : a fatty acid C₈H₁₄O₂S₂ that is essential for the oxidation of alpha-keto acids (such as pyruvic acid) in metabolism

Examples of lipoic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Omega-3 fatty acids plus alpha-lipoic acid. — Megan Nunn, Verywell Health, 29 Apr. 2026

The milk thistle extract and alpha lipoic acid could make the supplement more effective. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 29 Jan. 2026

This included an omega-3 fatty acid called alpha lipoic acid (ALA), which offers anti-inflammatory effects. — Lauren O'Connor, Health, 31 Dec. 2025

After our first meeting, Kay texted me his hangover regimen, which consists of capsules of N-acetyl cysteine, alpha-lipoic acid, and a supplement called Hangheal Liver Detox. — Rebecca Mead, New Yorker, 8 Dec. 2025

Word History

Etymology

lip-, lipo-

First Known Use

circa 1951, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for lipoic acid

• antacid
• placid

Medical Definition

lipoic acid

noun

li·​po·​ic acid li-ˌpō-ik-  lī- 

: any of several microbial growth factors

especially : a crystalline compound C₈H₁₄O₂S₂ that is essential for the oxidation of alpha-keto acids (as pyruvic acid) in metabolism

called also protogen