Coenzyme Q10 is a natural chemical that helps the heart, liver, kidney and pancreas function, according to MedlinePlus. As a supplement, coenzyme Q10 is used to treat heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and many other conditions. It is also used to boost energy and athletic performance. The jury is still out on how well coenzyme Q10 works and it does pose some dangers. Consult your doctor before taking coenzyme Q10.
Side Effects
Coenzyme Q10 is safe for most adults when taken by mouth and side effects are usually mild, according to MedlinePlus. The supplement can cause indigestion, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, itching, insomnia, headache, lightheadedness, irritability, light sensitivity, fatigue, rash and diarrhea. You may be able to minimize side effects by taking smaller doses spread throughout the day instead of one large daily dose.
Blood Pressure Problems
Coenzyme Q10 may lower blood pressure, which could be dangerous if you already suffer from low blood pressure, according to MedlinePlus. If you have high blood pressure and use medication to reduce it, coenzyme Q10 might lower your blood pressure even more, causing problems. If you have blood pressure problems, talk to your doctor before taking coenzyme Q10. If you are scheduled for surgery, stop taking coenzyme Q10 at least two weeks before the operation and tell your doctor about it. The supplement could make it difficult for doctors to control your blood pressure during surgery and that could lead to complications.
Other Dangers
Coenzyme Q10 may lower blood sugar levels and could cause problems for people with diabetes or low blood sugar, according to MayoClinic.com. There have also been reports of liver damage and a change in thyroid function. In a study of heart patients taking coenzyme Q10, there were reports of organ damage when the patients exercised vigorously, though it's not clear that the supplement caused the problem. If you have diabetes, liver or thyroid conditions, talk to your doctor before taking coenzyme Q10.
Drug Interactions
In addition to high blood pressure medication, coenzyme Q10 might interfere with other drugs you may be taking, according to MedlinePlus. The supplement may reduce the effectiveness of cancer drugs or radiation therapy for cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. If you are undergoing cancer treatment, stop taking coenzyme Q10 a few weeks before and after treatment and talk to your doctor. Coenzyme Q10 may also interfere with blood thinners, causing a risk of dangerous blood clots. If you are taking these drugs, do not take coenzyme Q10 without talking to your doctor first.
