Coenzyme Q-10 (CoQ-10) is a substance similar to a vitamin that is found naturally in the mitrochondria, which is where energy is produced inside cells. CoQ-10 is used by the body to make ATP which is a major source of power for cells similar to a rechargeable battery. ATP is necessary for certain functions such as muscle contraction and to produce protein.
Why CoQ-10 is used
Many different uses for CoQ-10 have been proposed but few undergone enough testing to be conclusive.
• Low CoQ-10 levels- For people whose natural levels of CoQ-10 are too low, supplements can help reduce symptoms including weakness, fatigue, and seizures.
• Heart and blood vessel disease – Researchers believe failure of the mitochondria to produce enough energy for cells may be a contributing factor in heart disease as well as degenerative nerve diseases. Since CoQ-10 is used to produce the power source ATP, some scientists believe CoQ-10 may be helpful in slowing the progression of these diseases. More testing is needed.
• Increase energy – Some people believe supplements may increase energy for more vigorous or effective exercise.
• Life span – Because levels of CoQ-10 decline as we age, some people believe supplements could act as a “fountain of youth” to delay aging and help them live longer. Laboratory testing showed this worked on bacteria, but did not work on rats. More testing will be needed to determine if it works on people.
• Antioxidant – CoQ-10 is known to be an antioxidant which can limit the damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are particles that attack and damage cells. They can alter DNA and cause the death of cells and are believed to contribute to heart disease, cancer, and the aging process. Free radicals exist naturally in the body. Certain toxins including smoking, radiation, and air pollution can increase the number of free radicals in the body. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals which prevents them from causing damage to cells.
• Immune System – CoQ-10 is sometimes used to strengthen the immune system, especially for people with HIV/AIDS.
How CoQ-10 is used
CoQ-10 is found naturally in a variety of foods including oily fish such as salmon and tuna, in organ meats such as liver, and in whole grains. Most people get enough CoQ-10 in their diets that they do not need to take CoQ-10 supplements. CoQ-10 is available in soft gels, oral spray, capsules, and tablets. It is also sometimes found in cosmetics. Because CoQ-10 can be dissolved in fat, supplements should be taken with a meal that contains fat to help the body get the most use from the supplement.
Cautions for CoQ-10
CoQ-10 is not recommended for general use by children under age 18 unless prescribed by a doctor. CoQ-10 appears to be generally safe for adults with minor side effects including upset stomach. Cautions for CoQ-10 include:
• Chemotherapy – antioxidants including CoQ-10 can interact with chemotherapy medications. Do not take any antioxidant supplements during chemotherapy without approval from your doctor.
• Blood pressure– CoQ-10 may help some blood pressure medications be more effective. This may allow you to take a lower dose, but can also cause your blood pressure to become too low. Discuss this with your doctor.
• Blood thinners – CoQ-10 may make blood thinners including warfarin (Coumadin) less effective. This could mean you would need to take more medication to keep your blood thin enough to prevent clotting.
• Other medications – Some medications including statins taken to lower cholesterol may lower the natural level of CoQ-10 in the body.
• Pregnancy- The effects of CoQ-10 on women who are pregnant or nursing have not been studied. Do not take CoQ-10 as a supplement without specific instructions from your doctor if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Be sure to tell your health care providers about all supplements you chose to take, including CoQ-10.
Sources:
University of Maryland Medical Center
National Institutes of Health: Medline Plus
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine