Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 might be helpful in cardiovascular disease, particularly in congestive heart failure. Coenzyme Q10 might be indicated to correct reduced blood levels of Coenzyme Q10 that result from the use of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors used to treat high cholesterol levels. There is little evidence to support claims that Coenzyme Q10 has positive effects in cancer, immune dysfunction, and muscular dystrophy. There is no reliable evidence that it can enhance athletic performance or inhibit obesity.

Nursing mothers and women who are pregnant should avoid Coenzyme Q10 supplements due to a lack of long-term safety studies. There is a report of Coenzyme Q10 decreasing the effectiveness of warfarin. Clinical reports from Japan suggest that supplemental Coenzyme Q10 might improve beta-cell function and glycemic control in type II diabetics. Coenzyme Q10 doesn't appear to improve glycemic control in type I diabetics. Diabetics should know of this possibility, and diabetics who do use supplemental Coenzyme Q10 should determine if they need to make any adjustments in their diabetic medications. Mild gastrointestinal symptoms such asdiarrhea, epigastric distress, and nausea have been reported, particularly with higher doses. Coenzyme Q10 and cholesterol share the same metabolic pathways. Inhibition of the enzyme 3-hydroxyl-3-methylglutonyl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase would be expected to decrease Coenzyme Q10 levels. The statin medicines lovastatin, pravastatin, and simvastatin are known to decrease Coenzyme Q10 levels in people. It's likely that all statins have this effect. Coenzyme Q10 might help to ameliorate the cardiotoxicity of doxorubicin. Some beta blockers, in particular propanolol, have been reported to inhibit some Coenzyme Q10 dependent enzymes. Piperine may increase plasma levels of Coenzyme Q10. This website is intended to educate and inform, and should not replace discussions with your doctor.