Parkinson's disease is a chronic neurological condition characterized by moving and coordination difficulties, tremors and muscle rigidity. It occurs when nerve cells that produce dopamine, the chemical responsible for controlling movement and coordination, become damaged. Parkinson's disease is incurable, but medications that help to slow disease progression are available. A naturally occurring substance known as coenzyme Q10 may play a role in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, but scientific proof is limited. Talk to your doctor before incorporating coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)into your treatment plan.
Properties and Use
Coenzyme Q10 plays a role energy production and also helps to stabilize cell membranes. It is produced by every cell in the body and is also available in small amounts in foods, including meats and seafood. It can also be taken as a dietary supplement. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking 300 to 2400 mg daily to help slow the progression of Parkinson's disease. However, this dose should only be used as a guideline. Ask your doctor what is right for you.
Efficacy
The results of a study published in the October 2002 issue of "Archives in Neurology" show that CoQ10 appears to to slow the progression of early-stage Parkinson's disease. However, lead author C.W. Shults notes that larger studies are needed to confirm this effect. In contrast, findings from a study published in the July 2007 edition of "Archives in Neurology" show that CoQ10 did improve symptoms of mid-stage Parkinson's disease.
Safety Considerations
Coenzyme Q-10 is safe for most adults, according to RxList. However, some people may experience nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Proceed with caution if you have low blood pressure, as CoQ10 may lower it further. You can help to diminish these effects by dividing your total daily dose into several smaller doses and taking them over the course of the day. Avoid taking CoQ10 if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you are due to undergo surgery. It may also interact with some drugs, including antihypertensives, blood thinners and chemotherapy drugs.
Other Measures
You should never use coenzyme Q10 or any other supplement as a sole treatment for Parkinson's disease. Rather, supplements should only be used alongside prescription treatments under your doctor's direction. Eating a low-protein diet may help your prescription drugs to work better, while taking intensive exercise may help to improve symptoms and help you maintain your balance and prolong your mobility.
References
- NHS Choices: Parkinson's Disease
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Parkinson's Disease
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Coenzyme Q10
- PubMed: Effects of coenzyme Q10 in Early Parkinson Disease: Evidence of Slowing of the Functional Decline
- PubMed: Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial on Symptomatic Effects of Coenzyme Q(10) in Parkinson Disease
- RxList.com: Coenzyme Q10
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