Chronic fatigue syndrome is a poorly understood condition characterized by unexplained fatigue that disrupts normal activity and lasts for longer than six months. The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is unknown, although several theories exist, including one suggesting that the condition is caused by defects in the cellular processes that generate energy. One popular alternative treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome is coenzyme Q10, although evidence of its effectiveness is lacking. As with any health supplement, consult your doctor before taking coenzyme Q10.
Coenzyme Q10 and Cellular Energy
Coenzyme Q10 is critical for cellular respiration, the process that generates cellular fuel molecules known as adenosine triphosphate, or ATP. Cells use ATP as their main source of energy for most of the processes of life, including the muscle contraction required for physical activity. If cells do not have enough coenzyme Q10, the biochemical reactions that produce ATP cannot operate efficiently and cells do not produce enough ATP.
Coenzyme Q10 Deficiency
One of the symptoms of coenzyme Q10 deficiency is fatigue, suggesting that low levels of coenzyme Q10 prevent cells from making enough ATP to fuel biological processes such as the muscle contractions that are required for physical activity. In addition, studies have found that people with chronic fatigue syndrome often have low levels of coenzyme Q10, reports a study published in the journal "Neuroendocrinology Letters" in 2009 that suggests a link between coenzyme Q10 and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Treating Chronic Fatigue
If the theory that chronic fatigue syndrome is caused by defects in cellular respiration is correct, then treatment with coenzyme Q10 theoretically could treat chronic fatigue syndrome. Anecdotal stories from people with chronic fatigue syndrome who took coenzyme Q10 and felt less fatigue can easily be found, but no well-controlled, large clinical trials have investigated using coenzyme Q10 to treat chronic fatigue syndrome, so its effectiveness still is unknown, according to MedlinePlus.
Side Effects of Coenzyme Q10
Consult your doctor before taking coenzyme Q10 to treat chronic fatigue. Coenzyme Q10 supplements are generally safe and well-tolerated, but they can occasionally cause side effects. The most common side effects of coenzyme Q10 include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and diarrhea. Additionally, fatigue has sometime been reported as a side effect of coenzyme Q10, meaning it could potentially make the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome worse.
References
- MedlinePlus: Coenzyme Q-10
- "Neuroendocrinology Letters"; Coenzyme Q10 Deficiency in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is Related to Fatigue, Autonomic and Neurocognitive Symptoms and is Another Risk Factor Explaining the Early Mortality in ME/CFS Due to Cardiovascular Disorder; M Maes et al.; 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - Medications
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Coenzyme Q10
- AboutMECFS.org: Treating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS): Coenzyme Q10
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