Should You Take Coenzyme Q10?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) – also known as mitoquinone, ubiquinone, or vitamin Q10 – is a vitamin-like substance that is made naturally in the body. It can boost the immune system and acts as an antioxidant. Antioxidants are substances that scavenge or detoxify free radicals, particles found in many cells in the body that can damage important cellular components such as DNA. Environmental toxins such as ultraviolet light, air pollution and smoke increase free radicals and increase cell damage.

CoQ10 is found in its highest concentrations in the heart, liver, kidneys and pancreas. Foods such as beef, soybean oil, sardines, mackerel and peanuts are also high in CoQ10. CoQ10 is marketed by several companies as a dietary supplement and usual doses range from 30-200 mg per day.

Low blood levels of CoQ10 have been found in people with various types of cancer and chronic diseases including heart conditions, Parkinson’s disease, congestive heart failure, diabetes, periodontal disease and HIV/AIDS. In addition, some prescription drugs may lower CoQ10 levels. Natural CoQ10 levels decrease with age. Although taking CoQ10 dietary supplements can raise your blood levels of CoQ10, research has not conclusively shown whether this will help fight off diseases characterized by low CoQ10 levels.

As a dietary supplement, CoQ10 is prohibited by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) from making public claims for the successful treatment of specific diseases. However, CoQ10 is sold as a disease treatment in other countries – for example, it is marketed as a treatment for congestive heart failure in Russia and Japan and is widely used throughout Europe and Asia.

One large study and a smaller research trial have demonstrated a reduction in symptoms in patients with Parkinson’s disease who took large doses of CoQ10. However, the American Academy of Neurology has concluded that there is not sufficient evidence to recommend using CoQ10 in patients with Parkinson’s disease.

A number of well-conducted studies have shown success in treating patients with congestive heart failure with CoQ10. These patients were hospitalized less often, had less shortness of breath and less leg swelling. Confusingly, other trials have shown no benefit. A large research trial is now underway that should help answer these questions.
CoQ10 seems to lower blood sugar but has not been shown to be of any benefit to diabetic patients. Additional research studies are underway to determine whether CoQ10 might be helpful to patients with muscular dystrophy, breast cancer, HIV/AIDS, gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

Blood levels of CoQ10 are decreased in patients who take statin drugs – i.e., drugs that lower cholesterol like Lipitor and Zocor (simvastatin). As a result, a number of scientists have theorized that adding CoQ10 to the medications of these patients may decrease some of these drugs’ side effects – particularly, muscle aches. Research has been unable to confirm this idea but a number of patients on these medications say that they find CoQ10 supplementation helpful.

Side effects from taking CoQ10 are rare, but about one percent of people report mild gastrointestinal discomfort including nausea. Some people have complained of mild insomnia at higher doses. CoQ10 might decrease blood sugar and blood pressure, and people taking medications for diabetes or high blood pressure should be particularly careful. CoQ10 might interact with Coumadin – a powerful blood thinner – although research studies have produced conflicting results.

Although CoQ10 is not a prescription drug, it may interact with your current medications or have undesired effects. If you are interested in trying CoQ10, discuss your plans with your physician.

Kelly McMahon, MD, a graduate of Yale College and the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, is board certified in internal medicine. She is a member of the American College of Physicians and the Allegheny County and Pennsylvania Medical Societies. She is in solo practice in the North Hills.