The "S" form is produced by the industry and is not particularly biologically active. Alpha-lipoic acid supplements consist of an "S&R" form in a 50/50 ratio. This means that an alpha-lipoic acid supplement contains 50% active "R" form. The human body normally produces and uses the "R" form of alpha-lipoic acid. The "R" form of alpha-lipoic acid significantly reduces inflammatory reactions and has been proven to be clearly more potent than the combined "R&S" form found in alpha-lipoic acid.
The Life Extension supplement contains the R form of alpha-lipoic acid, which has the highest bioavailability, stability, and potency. This R form of alpha-lipoic acid from Life Extension is 10 to 30 times more potent than other forms of alpha-lipoic acid and reaches its target within 10 to 20 minutes. Life Extension's Super R-Lipoic Acid is more stable within the body. Its increased stability is also the reason for its greater and faster absorption.