What are the potential health benefits of Coenzyme Q10. How much CoQ10 should you take. Can you get CoQ10 naturally from foods. What are the risks and side effects of taking CoQ10 supplements.

What is Coenzyme Q10 and How Does It Work?

Coenzyme Q10, often abbreviated as CoQ10, is a vitamin-like substance naturally produced by the human body. It plays a crucial role in cellular energy production and acts as a powerful antioxidant. CoQ10 is found in highest concentrations in organs with high energy demands, such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and pancreas.

The “Q10” in its name refers to its specific chemical structure. This compound was first identified in 1957 and has since been the subject of extensive research due to its potential health benefits.

How does CoQ10 function in the body?

CoQ10 serves two primary functions:

1. Energy production: It is an essential component in the mitochondrial electron transport chain, which is responsible for generating cellular energy in the form of ATP.
2. Antioxidant protection: CoQ10 acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress.

Potential Health Benefits of Coenzyme Q10

While CoQ10 is naturally present in the body, supplementation may offer additional health benefits. Research has explored its potential in various medical conditions:

Cardiovascular Health

CoQ10 has shown promise in supporting heart health:

• Blood pressure management: Some evidence suggests that CoQ10 supplements may help lower blood pressure slightly.
• Heart failure: When combined with standard medications, CoQ10 might help improve symptoms and reduce future cardiac risks in heart failure patients, although evidence is mixed.
• Angina: CoQ10 supplementation may potentially alleviate chest pain associated with angina.

Neurological Conditions

CoQ10 has been studied for its potential neuroprotective effects:

• Migraine prevention: Preliminary research indicates that CoQ10 may help prevent migraines, though it may take several months to see effects.
• Parkinson’s disease: Some studies have explored CoQ10’s potential in slowing the progression of Parkinson’s disease, but more research is needed.
• Alzheimer’s disease: Early evidence suggests CoQ10 might slow, but not stop, the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, warranting further investigation.

Statin-Related Side Effects

Can CoQ10 help mitigate the side effects of statin medications? While still controversial, some preliminary evidence suggests that CoQ10 supplementation may help prevent or treat adverse effects of statin-type cholesterol drugs, such as muscle pain and liver problems.

CoQ10 Deficiency and Associated Conditions

While most healthy individuals have sufficient levels of CoQ10, certain factors can lead to deficiency:

What causes CoQ10 deficiency?

• Increasing age
• Certain medical conditions
• Statin use

CoQ10 deficiency, though rare, can manifest with symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, and seizures. Supplementation has shown to improve these symptoms effectively.

Conditions associated with low CoQ10 levels

• Heart failure
• High blood pressure
• Gum disease
• Blood infections
• Certain muscle diseases
• HIV infection

Dosage and Administration of CoQ10 Supplements

Determining the right dosage of CoQ10 can be challenging as there is no universally established ideal dose. How much CoQ10 should you take? The appropriate amount can vary based on individual health conditions and goals.

Typical dosage ranges

• General supplementation: 100-200 mg daily
• Clinical studies: 50-1,200 mg daily, sometimes divided into multiple doses

It’s crucial to follow the instructions on the supplement bottle or consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Keep in mind that different brands may have varying ingredients and potencies.

Natural Sources of CoQ10 in Diet

While supplements are a common way to increase CoQ10 intake, can you get CoQ10 naturally from foods? Yes, CoQ10 is present in various food sources, albeit in lower amounts compared to supplements.

Top food sources of CoQ10

• Cold-water fish (tuna, salmon, mackerel, sardines)
• Organ meats (liver, heart)
• Muscle meats
• Vegetable oils
• Nuts and seeds
• Legumes

Incorporating these foods into your diet can help maintain natural CoQ10 levels, though it may not provide the same concentration as supplements for therapeutic purposes.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of CoQ10 Supplementation

While CoQ10 is generally considered safe for most adults, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and side effects. What are the risks of taking CoQ10?

Common side effects

Side effects from CoQ10 supplementation are typically rare and mild. They may include:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Heartburn
• Mild insomnia
• Skin rashes

Precautions and contraindications

Certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid CoQ10 supplements:

• People with chronic diseases such as heart failure, liver problems, or diabetes should consult their healthcare provider before using CoQ10.
• CoQ10 may lower blood sugar levels and blood pressure, which could interact with medications for these conditions.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women and children should avoid CoQ10 supplements due to insufficient safety data.

Potential drug interactions

CoQ10 may interact with certain medications:

• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• Thyroid medications
• Chemotherapy drugs

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting CoQ10 supplementation, especially if you’re taking other medications.

CoQ10 in Specific Medical Conditions

Research has explored the potential benefits of CoQ10 in various medical conditions, with varying degrees of evidence:

Mitochondrial myopathies

CoQ10 supplementation has shown promise in reducing symptoms of mitochondrial myopathies, a group of disorders that primarily affect muscle function. However, improvement may be gradual, with some individuals requiring up to 6 months of supplementation to experience significant benefits.

Fertility and reproductive health

Some studies have investigated CoQ10’s potential in addressing low sperm count, though conclusive evidence is lacking. Further research is needed to determine its efficacy in fertility-related issues.

Cancer

While some studies have explored CoQ10’s potential in cancer treatment or prevention, current evidence is insufficient to draw definitive conclusions. More robust research is needed in this area.

HIV/AIDS

Preliminary studies have looked into CoQ10’s role in supporting immune function in HIV-positive individuals, but results remain inconclusive.

Muscular dystrophy

Research on CoQ10’s potential benefits in muscular dystrophy is ongoing, with some promising early results warranting further investigation.

Periodontal disease

Some studies suggest that CoQ10 might have beneficial effects on gum health, potentially complementing traditional periodontal treatments. However, more research is needed to establish its efficacy conclusively.

While these areas of research are intriguing, it’s important to note that CoQ10 should not be considered a standalone treatment for any medical condition. Always consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment options.

Misconceptions and Limitations of CoQ10 Supplementation

Despite its potential benefits, there are some common misconceptions about CoQ10 that should be addressed:

Energy boosting claims

Is CoQ10 an effective energy supplement? Although CoQ10 plays a crucial role in cellular energy production, there is no substantial evidence that it will boost energy levels in typical, healthy individuals. The energy-boosting claims often associated with CoQ10 supplements may be overstated for the general population.

Universal applicability

While CoQ10 supplementation can be beneficial in certain conditions, it’s not a panacea. Its effects can vary greatly depending on individual health status, age, and specific medical conditions.

Immediate results

For some conditions, such as migraine prevention, the effects of CoQ10 supplementation may take several months to become noticeable. Patience and consistency are often required when using CoQ10 for therapeutic purposes.

Replacement for medical treatment

CoQ10 should not be viewed as a replacement for prescribed medications or other medical treatments. It’s best used as a complementary approach under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Understanding these limitations and misconceptions can help individuals make more informed decisions about CoQ10 supplementation and set realistic expectations for its potential benefits.

Health Benefits, Dosage, & Side Effects

Written by R. Morgan Griffin

In this Article

• Why do people take CoQ10?
• How much CoQ10 should you take?
• Can you get CoQ10 naturally from foods?
• What are the risks of taking CoQ10?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a nutrient that occurs naturally in the body. CoQ10 is also in many foods we eat. CoQ10 acts as an antioxidant, which protects cells from damage and plays an important part in the metabolism.

Although CoQ10 plays a key role in the body, most healthy people have enough CoQ10 naturally. There is some evidence that adding more — in the form of CoQ10 supplements — may be beneficial. Increasing age and some medical conditions are associated with dropping levels of CoQ10. But in these cases, it’s uncertain that adding CoQ10 will have an effect.

CoQ10 has been used to treat many different conditions. There’s evidence that CoQ10 supplements can lower blood pressure slightly. CoQ10 is also used to treat heart failure and other heart conditions, possibly helping to improve some symptoms and lessen future cardiac risks when combined with regular medications, but the evidence is conflicting.

Though still controversial, some preliminary evidence suggests that CoQ10 may help to prevent or treat the adverse effects, such as muscle pains and liver problems, of taking statin-type cholesterol drugs.

Preliminary studies have shown that CoQ10 may slow, but not stop, the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Additional research is needed to confirm this effect.

CoQ10 has also been studied as a preventive treatment for migraine headaches, though it may take several months to work. It has also been studied for low sperm count, cancer, HIV, muscular dystrophy, Parkinson’s disease, gum disease, and many other conditions. However, the research has not found any conclusive benefits. Although CoQ10 is sometimes sold as an energy supplement, there is no evidence that it will boost energy in a typical person.

There is no established ideal dose of CoQ10. Studies have used doses of CoQ10 ranging from 50 milligrams to 1,200 milligrams in adults, sometimes split into several doses over the course of a day. A typical daily dose is 100 milligrams to 200 milligrams. Follow the instructions on the bottle or get advice from your doctor or a dietitian. Keep in mind that different supplement brands might have different ingredients and strengths.

The amounts of CoQ10 in found naturally in food is much lower than that found in supplements. Good food sources of CoQ10 include:

• Cold water fish, like tuna, salmon, mackerel, and sardines
• Vegetable oils
• Meats

• Side effects from CoQ10 seem to be rare and mild. They include diarrhea, nausea, and heartburn.
• Risks. People with chronic diseases such as heart failure, liver problems, or diabetes should be wary of using this supplement. CoQ10 may lower blood sugar levels and blood pressure.  
• Interactions. People taking blood thinners and thyroid medications as well as chemotherapy should check with their doctors before using CoQ10 supplements.

Given the lack of evidence about its safety, CoQ10 supplements are not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Coenzyme Q10 is a vitamin-like substance found throughout the body, but especially in the heart, liver, kidney, and pancreas. It is eaten in small amounts in meats and seafood. Coenzyme Q10 can also be made in a laboratory.

Coenzyme Q10 is most commonly used for conditions that affect the heart such as heart failure and fluid build up in the body (congestive heart failure or CHF), chest pain (angina), and high blood pressure. It is also used for preventing migraine headache, Parkinson disease, and many other conditions.

Coenzyme Q10 was first identified in 1957. The “Q10” refers to the chemical make-up of the substance.

Coenzyme Q10 is an important vitamin-like substance required for the proper function of many organs and chemical reactions in the body. It helps provide energy to cells. Coenzyme Q10 also seems to have antioxidant activity. People with certain diseases, such as heart failure, high blood pressure, gum disease, Parkinson disease, blood infections, certain diseases of the muscles, and HIV infection, might have lower levels of coenzyme Q10.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Likely Effective for

• Coenzyme Q10 deficiency. Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth seems to improve symptoms of coenzyme Q10 deficiency. This is a very rare condition. The symptoms include weakness, fatigue, and seizures.
• A group of disorders that most often cause muscle weakness (mitochondrial myopathies). Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth seems to reduce symptoms of mitochondrial myopathies. However, improvement in symptoms is slow. Some people have to take coenzyme Q10 for 6 months to get the most benefit.

Possibly Effective for

• Heart failure and fluid build up in the body (congestive heart failure or CHF). Early research found that heart failure might be linked with low coenzyme Q10 levels. Some research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 might help reduce some symptoms of heart failure. Coenzyme Q10 might also reduce the chances of death or hospitalization related to heart failure.
• Nerve pain in people with diabetes (diabetic neuropathy). Research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 improves nerve damage and nerve pain in people with nerve damage caused by diabetes.
• Fibromyalgia. Some research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth reduces pain, tenderness, fatigue, and sleep issues in people with fibromyalgia.
• Tissue damage caused when there is limited blood flow and then blood flow is restored (ischemia-reperfusion injury). Reduced blood supply during heart or blood vessel surgery can deprive tissue of oxygen. When blood supply returns to this tissue, the tissue can become damaged. There is some evidence that taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth for at least one week before heart bypass surgery or blood vessel surgery might help to reduce tissue damage. However, not all research agrees with this finding.
• Migraine. Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth seems to help prevent migraine headaches in adults. Taking coenzyme Q10 also appears to reduce migraine frequency in children who have low levels of coenzyme Q10. It may take up to 3 months to see any benefit.
• Multiple sclerosis (MS). Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth seems to reduce tiredness and low mood in people with MS.
• A group of inherited disorders that cause muscle weakness and muscle loss (muscular dystrophy). Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth seems to improve physical performance in some people with muscular dystrophy.
• Heart attack. When started within 72 hours of a heart attack and taken for one year, coenzyme Q10 appears to lower the risk of heart-related events, including another heart attack.
• A disease that causes curved, painful erections (Peyronie disease). Research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 improves erectile function in men with painful erections.

Possibly Ineffective for

• Alzheimer disease. Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth doesn’t seem to improve mental function in people with Alzheimer disease.
• Lou Gehrig’s disease (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS). Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth does not slow the progression of ALS.
• Tiredness in people treated with cancer drugs. Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth does not seem to reduce fatigue in people being treated for breast cancer.
• Diabetes. Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth does not lower blood sugar levels in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
• Parkinson disease. Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth does not seem to improve symptoms in people with Parkinson disease.
• Symptoms such as muscle weakness and fatigue that affect polio survivors. Taking coenzyme Q10 does not improve muscle strength, muscle function, or fatigue in polio survivors.

Likely InEffective for

• Athletic performance. Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth, alone or with other ingredients, doesn’t improve athletic performance in athletes or non-athletes.
• An inherited brain disorder that affects movements, emotions, and thinking (Huntington disease). One large research study shows that taking coenzyme Q10 in large doses (2.4 grams daily) for up to 5 years does not stop Huntington disease symptoms from getting worse.

Insufficient Evidence for

• Chest pain (angina). Some early research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth might reduce chest pain and improve exercise ability in people with chest pain.
• Heart damage caused by certain cancer drugs (anthracycline cardiotoxicity). Early research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth might protect the heart in children aged 3-12 years who are being treated with a class of drugs called anthracyclines. But results from larger studies are inconsistent.
• Autism. Early research shows that taking a specific form of coenzyme Q10 called ubiquinol improves autism symptoms in autism patients aged 3-6 years according to parent assessment. Higher quality studies are needed to confirm these results.
• Bipolar disorder. Early research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 improves symptoms of depression in people over 55 years of age with bipolar disorder.
• Breast cancer. Some research in Chinese women suggests that having low blood levels of coenzyme Q10 is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
• Cancer. Low coenzyme Q10 levels seem to be linked with an increased risk of skin cancer. Early research suggests that taking coenzyme Q10 along with other antioxidants increases survival time by 40% in patients with terminal cancer. Higher quality studies are needed to confirm these results.
• Brain damage that affects muscle movement (cerebellar ataxia). Early research suggests that taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth can improve posture and muscle function in people with cerebellar ataxia and low coenzyme Q10 levels. However, it doesn’t seem to benefit people with normal coenzyme Q10 levels.
• A lung disease that makes it harder to breathe (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD). Early research suggests that taking coenzyme Q10 does not improve lung function or exercise performance in people with COPD.
• A disorder that causes repeated episodes of nausea and vomiting (cyclic vomiting syndrome or CVS). Early research suggests that taking coenzyme Q10 might work as well as prescription medications used to treat CVS.
• Weakened and enlarged heart (dilated cardiomyopathy). Early research suggests that taking coenzyme Q10 improves heart function in children and adolescents with dilated cardiomyopathy.
• Dry mouth. Early research suggests that taking an altered form of coenzyme Q10 called ubiquinol improves dry mouth.
• Hearing loss. Some research suggests that taking coenzyme Q10 can improve hearing in some people with age-related hearing loss. But combining coenzyme Q10 with conventional steroid treatments doesn’t improve hearing in people with sudden deafness. Also, it doesn’t appear to improve hearing in people with noise-induced hearing loss.
• Swelling (inflammation) of the liver caused by the hepatitis C virus (hepatitis C). Research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 does not improve liver function in people with hepatitis C who are not responding to conventional treatment.
• High levels of cholesterol or other fats (lipids) in the blood (hyperlipidemia). It’s unclear if coenzyme Q10 reduces cholesterol levels. One study shows it might lower triglycerides and LDL (or “bad” cholesterol) by a small amount. Other studies show no benefit of taking coenzyme Q10 for lowering total cholesterol or LDL or increasing HDL (or “good” cholesterol) levels. It may take at least 3 months to see any benefit.
• High blood pressure. Some research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 by itself or along with other medications for treating high blood pressure helps lowers blood pressure in people with high blood pressure. However, not all research has shown benefit. Coenzyme Q10 might only benefit people with high blood pressure who also have diabetes or low blood levels of coenzyme Q10 before treatment. Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth daily appears to lower systolic blood pressure (the top number) in some people with high systolic blood pressure but normal diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number).
• Weakened and thickened heart (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy). Taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth seems to decrease the thickness of the heart wall and decrease symptoms of shortness of breath and fatigue in people with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
• Inability to become pregnant within a year of trying to conceive (infertility). Although coenzyme Q10 might increase the chance of getting pregnant, it might not reduce miscarriage or increase successful pregnancies in women with this condition.
• Kidney failure. Some early research suggests that taking coenzyme Q10 improves kidney function in people with kidney failure. But it might not be helpful in people with less severe kidney disease.
• Conditions in a man that prevent him from getting a woman pregnant within a year of trying to conceive (male infertility). There is some early evidence that taking coenzyme Q10 or an altered form of coenzyme Q10 called ubiquinol by mouth for 3-6 months can improve the movement and density of sperm in men with certain types of infertility. It’s unclear if these improvements increase pregnancy rate.
• An inherited form of diabetes that is linked with deafness. Early research suggests that taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth might prevent the progression of a rare form of diabetes that is inherited from the mother.
• Build up of fat in the liver in people who drink little or no alcohol (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or NAFLD). Early research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 can improve markers of liver injury and disease severity in people with NAFLD.
• Obesity. Taking coenzyme Q10 does not seem to help with weight loss.
• Parkinson disease. Some research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 by itself or along with other supplements might slow mental decline in people with early-stage Parkinson disease. At least 16 months of treatment and doses above 600 mg daily appear to be needed to achieve these benefits. However, not all data has been positive. Some research shows that coenzyme Q10 does not benefit people with early or mid-stage Parkinson disease.
• A serious gum infection (periodontitis). Applying coenzyme Q10 to the gums is not effective for treating gum disease. However, there is some early evidence that taking coenzyme Q10 by mouth might be helpful.
• A hormonal disorder that causes enlarged ovaries with cysts (polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS). Early research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 can reduce hair loss and acne in women with PCOS. It might also reduce blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels.
• A rare inherited disorder that causes obesity, short stature, and learning disability (Prader-Willi syndrome or PWS). Early research suggests that taking coenzyme Q10 improves mental and physical development in children with PWS. But it is not clear if these improvements are due to the coenzyme Q10 or an age-related phenomenon.
• A pregnancy complication marked by high blood pressure and protein in the urine (pre-eclampsia). Pre-eclampsia is a condition that some women develop during pregnancy. Some research shows that women who are at risk have a lower chance of developing the condition if they take coenzyme Q10 from week 20 of pregnancy until the baby is delivered.
• Schizophrenia. It is unclear if taking coenzyme Q10 improves symptoms in people with schizophrenia.
• Blood infection (sepsis). Some early research shows that taking coenzyme Q10 might prevent death in people with blood infections. But other research shows that taking a form of coenzyme Q10 called ubiquinol doesn’t prevent death. Coenzyme Q10 doesn’t seem to reduce time in the hospital due to a blood infection.
• Muscle pain caused by statin drugs (statin-induced myalgia). Statins, a class of drugs used to lower cholesterol, can sometimes cause muscle pain. There is some evidence that taking coenzyme Q10 might reduce this pain. But not all research agrees.
• Muscle weakness caused by statin drugs (statin-induced myopathy). Statins, a class of drugs used to lower cholesterol, can sometimes cause muscle weakness. There is some evidence that taking coenzyme Q10 might improve this weakness. But not all research agrees.
• Skin wrinkles from sun damage. Early evidence suggests that applying a coenzyme Q10 cream to the skin improves wrinkled skin.
• An eye disease that leads to vision loss in older adults (age-related macular degeneration or AMD).
• Aging.
• An inherited disease of the nerves and muscles (Friedreich ataxia).
• Asthma.
• Cataracts.
• Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).
• Cocaine use disorder.
• Dry eye.
• Heart disease.
• Kidney damage in people with diabetes (diabetic nephropathy).
• Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate coenzyme Q10 for these uses.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Coenzyme Q10 is LIKELY SAFE for most adults. While most people tolerate coenzyme Q10 well, it can cause some mild side effects including stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can cause allergic skin rashes in some people. It also might lower blood pressure, so check your blood pressure carefully if you have very low blood pressure. Dividing the total daily dose by taking smaller amounts two or three times daily instead of a large amount all at once can help reduce side effects.

When applied to the skin: Coenzyme Q10 is LIKELY SAFE for most adults when applied directly to the gums.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Coenzyme Q10 is LIKELY SAFE for most adults. While most people tolerate coenzyme Q10 well, it can cause some mild side effects including stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can cause allergic skin rashes in some people. It also might lower blood pressure, so check your blood pressure carefully if you have very low blood pressure. Dividing the total daily dose by taking smaller amounts two or three times daily instead of a large amount all at once can help reduce side effects.

When applied to the skin: Coenzyme Q10 is LIKELY SAFE for most adults when applied directly to the gums. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Coenzyme Q10 is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth appropriately during pregnancy. Coenzyme Q10 has been used safely when taken twice daily starting at 20 weeks until delivery. Not enough is known about the use of coenzyme Q10 during breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: Coenzyme Q10 is POSSIBLY SAFE for children when taken by mouth. However, coenzyme Q10 should not be used in children without medical supervision.

Interactions ?

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

• Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant. There is some concern that antioxidants might decrease the effectiveness of some medications used for cancers. But it is too soon to know if the interaction occurs. Some medications for cancer include busulfan, carboplatin, cisplatin, cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan), dacarbazine, thiotepa, and many others.

• Coenzyme Q10 seems to decrease blood pressure. Taking coenzyme Q10 along with medications for high blood pressure might cause your blood pressure to go too low.

  Some medications for high blood pressure include captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), losartan (Cozaar), valsartan (Diovan), diltiazem (Cardizem), Amlodipine (Norvasc), hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL), furosemide (Lasix), and many others.

• Warfarin (Coumadin) is used to slow blood clotting while coenzyme Q10 might increase blood clotting. By helping the blood clot, coenzyme Q10 might decrease the effectiveness of warfarin (Coumadin) and increase the risk of dangerous clots. Be sure to have your blood checked regularly. The dose of your warfarin (Coumadin) might need to be changed.

Dosing

The following doses have been studied in scientific research:

ADULTS

BY MOUTH:

• For coenzyme Q10 deficiency: 150-2400 mg per day.
• For a group of disorders that most often cause muscle weakness (mitochondrial myopathies): 150-160 mg per day, or 2 mg/kg per day. In some cases, doses may be gradually increased to 3000 mg per day.
• For heart failure and fluid build up in the body (congestive heart failure or CHF): 30 mg once daily, or up to 300 mg per day divided into two or three doses for up to 2 years. Also, 2 mg/kg daily for up to one year has been used.
• For nerve pain in people with diabetes (diabetic neuropathy): 400 mg per day for 12 weeks.
• For fibromyalgia: 300 mg daily for about 6 weeks or 200 mg twice daily for 3 months has been used. A combination of 200 mg of coenzyme Q10 (Bio-Quinon Q10, Pharma Nord) plus 200 mg of ginkgo (Bio-Biloba, Pharma Nord) per day for 12 weeks.
• For tissue damage caused when there is limited blood flow and then blood flow is restored (ischemia-reperfusion injury): 150-300 mg per day in up to three divided doses for 1-2 weeks before surgery.
• For preventing migraine: 100 mg three times per day, 150 mg once per day, or 100mg once per day for 3 months. A dose of 1-3 mg/kg per day for 3 months has also been used.
• For multiple sclerosis (MS): 500 mg twice daily for 3 months.
• For a group of inherited disorders that cause muscle weakness and muscle loss (muscular dystrophy): 100 mg per day for 3 months.
• For heart attack: 120 mg per day in two divided doses for up to one year. A combination of 100 mg of coenzyme Q10 (Bio-Quinon, Pharma Nord) and 100 mcg of selenium (Bio-Selenium, Pharma Nord) per day for up to one year has also been used.
• For Peyronie disease: 300 mg per day for 6 months

CHILDREN

BY MOUTH:

• For coenzyme Q10 deficiency: 60-250 mg per day in up to three divided doses.
• For preventing migraine: 1-3 mg/kg daily for 3 months has been used in patients aged 3-18 years.
• For a group of inherited disorders that cause muscle weakness and muscle loss (muscular dystrophy): 100 mg daily for 3 months in children aged 8-15 years.

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.

What is Coenzyme Q10? Contraindications and Deficiency Symptoms

July 24
2019

Coenzyme Q10 is a chemical compound found in the mitochondria of animal and plant cells. Its other name is ubiquinone. Coenzyme Q10 is produced naturally by the body, however, when a deficiency should be supplemented with food or supplements.

The role of coenzyme Q10 in the body is very important. It is involved in the process of generating energy in every cell. In addition, the coenzyme affects their oxygenation and protection against the negative effects of free radicals. Especially important is the effect of coenzyme Q10 on the heart and skeletal muscles, which require the most energy in their work.

Coenzyme Q10 deficiency – symptoms

If the body is deficient in coenzyme Q10, it quickly becomes known. An insufficient amount of this component manifests itself at the beginning of chronic fatigue, decreased immunity, general weakness and poor concentration, but this is only the beginning … Deficiencies can even lead to a decrease in the functionality of the cells of the whole organism. Very often, the cause of deficiency is stress, poor diet, excessive drinking or smoking. Fortunately, you can effectively prevent this by taking a regular CoQ10 supplement. What is the benefit of such a supplement?

Benefits of Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 can be a valuable help with autumn and winter colds. This component helps protect cells from destruction and additionally supports the entire immune system. Thanks to this, the number of antibodies produced in the body increases, which quickly pick up any virus and harmful bacteria. Now you know why doctors are so willing to recommend vitamin preparations with coenzyme Q10 for influenza.

Coenzyme Q10 is known as a powerful antioxidant that helps fight oxidative stress and free radicals. Ubiquinone protects healthy cells from toxins, smog and other harmful substances from the air and food. Coenzyme Q10 should, in particular, be used by athletes who are exposed to intense exercise, joint pain and various injuries. Coenzyme Q10 improves muscle performance and aerobic capacity of the body, as it is responsible for accelerating metabolic processes and delivering energy to cells. An additional benefit is the acceleration of wound healing and minor abrasions, which are usually everyday for athletes.

Coenzyme Q10 is also worth taking if you want to take care of your heart and liver. Supports the work of internal organs and tissues of the body. Improves blood circulation, normalizes blood pressure and supports liver function. Preparations with coenzyme Q10 are especially recommended for people who take drugs to lower blood cholesterol levels – the so-called statins, which help reduce the level of ubiquinone in the body.

Few people realize that coenzyme Q10 also plays an important role in sexual life. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation is recommended for men of childbearing age who are trying to have offspring. Ubiquinone acts as a natural support for male potency and fertility. Future fathers, in addition to zinc, folic acid and selenium, should also take coenzyme Q10 to increase the chances of conceiving a child.

Coenzyme Q10 – instructions for use

The daily dose of coenzyme Q10 varies from 90 to 200 mg, and the most common form, in addition to its food supply, is dietary supplements in the form of capsules or tablets. It is best absorbed in the presence of fats. Therefore, before taking it, you should consult a doctor who will select an individual dose for the needs of the patient.

How do I choose a good CoQ10 supplement?

When choosing a product with coenzyme Q10, pay attention to the country of manufacture and dosage per capsule. If you regularly take CoQ10, you will undoubtedly take care not only of your appearance, firm skin and well-being, but also support the heart, liver and fight free radicals. You can see different dosages and packaging of this supplement from the American brand Puritan’s Pride here.

Coenzyme Q10 – contraindications

Coenzyme Q10 ingested is readily absorbed and the only side effect may be stomach upset. However, Coenzyme Q10 supplementation is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Also, people suffering from diabetes and heart disease should consult a doctor before taking.

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Coenzyme Q10: benefits and harms, secrets of taking

Articles

What is it?

Coenzyme Q10 was discovered in 1957. Based on his research achievements, Peter Mitchell received the Nobel Prize in Biochemistry at 1978, since he proved how coenzyme Q10 works inside the cell. According to recent studies published in one of the leading cardiology journals, the use of coenzyme Q10 reduces heart attack mortality and gives the heart muscle more energy in patients with heart failure.

For several years, CoQ10 has been known for its key role in mitochondrial bioenergetics. However, a later study found the presence of coenzyme Q10 not only in mitochondria, but also in other subcellular fractions and blood. Scientists have also carefully studied the antioxidant role of this substance. The fact is that CoQ10 is found in every cell and is found in the highest concentration in organs such as the kidneys, heart, liver and lungs, which require a lot of energy. However, over time, the production of the substance by the body decreases. Therefore, in order to replace the lost, in active and mature age it is important to receive CoQ10 with food or, if necessary, with the help of dietary supplements.

What is the danger of coenzyme Q10 deficiency? In addition, a deficiency of coenzyme Q10 provokes the development of “age-related” diseases – atherosclerosis, hypertension, Alzheimer’s disease, and chronic diseases.

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Coenzyme Q10 benefits and harms

This compound is effective:

• For heart failure and fluid accumulation in the body (congestive heart failure or CHF)
• Nerve pain in people with diabetes (diabetic neuropathy)
• HIV
• Before surgery
• For migraines
• For multiple sclerosis
• After a heart attack
• For fertility problems in women and men
• For skin problems

What Foods Contain

The best way to get enough CoQ10 is to take dietary supplements with a prescribed Coenzyme-10 content.

• meat and offal (kidney and liver)
• chicken
• beef
• pork
• oily fish (sardine and trout)
• spinach
• broccoli
• soybeans
• whole grains (corn, oats and millet)

The best solution is to supplement this important coagulant in the form of capsules or tablets. One of the offered products is dietary supplement Coenzyme Q10 manufactured by the Japanese company ORIHIRO. In addition to coenzyme Q10 itself, these capsules also contain a whole range of components useful for the body, including trace elements, vitamins and beta-carotene.

Coenzyme Q10 Uses and Side Effects

Coenzyme Q10 taken by mouth is safe for most adults. Although it may cause various mild side effects such as upset stomach, nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea, and lead to allergic reactions, low blood pressure, dividing and taking fewer doses, two or three times a day, can reduce these negative impacts.

Pregnancy and lactation:

• Coenzyme Q10 may be safe during pregnancy if taken properly
• Physicians should supervise the use of the drug during lactation.

High or low blood pressure:

• Coenzyme Q10 may affect blood pressure;
• It is necessary to consult about taking the drug with your doctor.

Smoking:

• Smoking interferes with the absorption of coenzyme Q10 and depletes the coenzyme produced in our body.

Secrets of taking coenzyme Q10

• with fatty meals
• max 200 mg/day
• especially useful for vegans and people over 40

Conclusion

So we learned that the coenzyme is first synthesized by the body and then absorbed from food sources. Studies have shown that after reaching the peak of productivity in 20 years, the production of coenzyme Q10 constantly decreases. But still, getting it as a dietary supplement, or as a means of treatment, will be effective! People aged 30-50 especially need this substance, because the coenzyme is necessary for the synthesis of ATP, as well as to fight free radicals.