Vitamins and coenzymes are both necessary for the maintenance, function and metabolism of human life. Vitamins are classified as fat-soluble and water-soluble. Fat-soluble vitamins possess a variety of functions, but water-soluble vitamins act as enzyme precursors, or coenzymes. Your body needs both vitamins and coenzymes to stay healthy and carry out necessary functions.
Function
Coenzymes are necessary for the enzymes in the body to function. Enzymes are proteins that work as a catalyst to mediate and speed chemical reactions in the body. A coenzyme molecule is relatively small, compared to the protein part of the enzyme, and is defined as an organic non-protein molecule. Coenzymes can't trigger reactions on their own, but they can help enzymes do the work. Like coenzymes, vitamins are organic substances the body requires for proper functioning. They perform a wide range of duties such as helping blood to clot and protecting cells from oxidation damage. Water-soluble vitamins such as B1, B2 and B6 serve as coenzymes.
Certain vitamins and coenzymes work together to create specific chemical reactions in the body, such as niacin and the coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, or NAD, which niacin converts to in the body.
Availability
You don't need a prescription for vitamins or coenzymes. Both vitamins and coenzymes are over-the-counter supplements that are readily available at drug stores, supermarkets , discount stores and online retailers. You can purchase a single coenzyme or vitamin, such as coenzyme Q10 or vitamin C, or get them as part of a multi-vitamin. They are sold under numerous brand names.
Price
Unlike some prescription medications, vitamins and coenzymes are more moderately priced. You can buy them in bulk at warehouse stores and shop for sales at discount, grocery and drug stores. Use coupons or shop online for additional savings.
Regulation
Vitamins and coenzymes are both considered "dietary supplements" under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994. Under this act, manufacturers are responsible for determining whether their dietary supplements are safe. The products do not need to get FDA approval before hitting the marketplace. Once a vitamin or coenzyme is being sold, the FDA can step in and restrict its use or pull it from the market if the FDA can prove the product is unsafe.
Dosage
Recommended dosages vary for vitamins and coenzymes. The amount of supplements your body needs will depend on the type of supplement, your age, gender, diet and health. Women who are pregnant or nursing will have different needs as well. Check with your health care provider before taking supplements.
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