When elevated cholesterol levels are significant, statins, such as simvastatin, lovastatin, atorvastatin and pravastatin, may be considered for treatment to reduce the chances of developing congestive heart failure (CHF). The controversy over the effectiveness of CoQ10 to relieve statin-induced muscle discomfort continues with ongoing clinical trials.
Congestive Heart Failure
Congestive heart failure occurs when your heart muscle cannot sufficiently supply enough blood to the body. This may be due to the inability of the muscle to pump, or it may be the result of stiff heart muscles in which the heart is unable to fill with an adequate blood supply. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is one of the major causes of CHF. CHD can be caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries, or atherosclerosis, which restricts the blood flow. Risk factors for developing atherosclerosis include high cholesterol levels.
Statins
Prescription drugs used to lower cholesterol are called statins. If your total cholesterol level is 240 mg/dL or higher, or your LDL cholesterol is 130 mg/dL or higher, your doctor may prescribe some type of statin medication. Your liver produces cholesterol naturally to aid in the digestion process. Statins work by reducing the production of natural cholesterol by your body, which lowers your total cholesterol. One of the side effects of statins is muscle pain and damage. Muscles can become tired, sore or have severe spasms. Rhabdomyolysis, which is life-threatening muscle damage, can occur with the use of statins.
CoQ10
Coenzyme Q 10, known as CoQ10, plays an active role in the production of energy for your body with its presence in every cell. In CHF, the heart muscles are weakened and have lower levels of CoQ10 than the heart muscles of healthy people. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that people with high cholesterol tend to have lower CoQ10 levels and suggests that taking CoQ10 supplements may correct the deficiency caused by taking statin medications for high cholesterol. More studies are needed to confirm the role of CoQ10 in supporting heart health.
Benefits
MedlinePlus states that the reported benefits of CoQ10 vary with different body systems: CoQ10 may be effective for CHF when taken with other heart medications, but lack of evidence exists to conclude its effectiveness for statin-related muscle pain. CoQ10 is found throughout the body naturally, and it is also found in meats and fish. Before taking CoQ10 as a supplement, always discuss your options with your doctor.
