Evaluation of retinal structures in patients with diabetic neuropathy using alpha lipoic acid and neurotropic vitamins

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is rapidly increasing, and uncontrolled chronic hyperglycemia leads to microvascular complications. Diabetic neuropathy, characterized by nerve damage, is a common complication that negatively affects quality of life. Alpha-lipoic acid and neurotropic vitamins are known for their antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. In recent years, growing attention has been directed toward the potential effects of these compounds on retinal structures. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of alpha-lipoic acid and neurotropic vitamins on the retinal ganglion cell layer (GCL) and central retinal thickness (CRT) in patients with type 2 diabetes and diabetic neuropathy. In this retrospectively designed study, 79 patients with type 2 diabetes and diabetic neuropathy, selected from 1,150 outpatient records and with at least six months of follow-up data, were included. The patients were divided into three groups: those who received no treatment, those treated with alpha-lipoic acid alone, and those who received a combination of alpha-lipoic acid and neurotropic vitamins. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements obtained at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months were reviewed for all patients. The potential protective effects of alpha-lipoic acid and neurotropic vitamins on GCL and CRT were investigated. In the group receiving the combination therapy, a statistically significant structural preservation was observed in bilateral GCL and CRT values (p=0.0007 and p<0.001; p=0.047 and p=0.001, respectively). In conclusion, alpha-lipoic acid and neurotropic vitamins may contribute to the preservation of retinal structures in individuals with diabetes and may be considered a potential protective treatment for the retina in patients with diabetic retinopathy.