Although your body makes coenzyme Q10, also called CoQ10, some people take supplements to increase their levels, because this coenzyme may provide health benefits. You can also increase your CoQ10 levels by small amounts when you eat whole grains, oily fish and organ meats.
Function
Coenzyme Q10 works as an antioxidant, helping to clean up the free radicals in your body that could otherwise cause damage and increase your risk for health conditions such as cancer and heart disease. Coenzyme Q10 helps with cellular respiration, and your body also uses it for producing energy, making proteins and contracting your muscles.
Possible Health Benefits
Taking supplemental CoQ10 may decrease your risk for heart disease and heart failure. It may also help with treatment for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gum disease, muscular dystrophy, Alzheimer's disease and breast cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Evidence is also promising for CoQ10 in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, migraines, kidney failure, asthma and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Safety
Possible side effects from supplemental CoQ10 include rash, itching, upset stomach, diarrhea, lack of appetite, vomiting, heartburn, insomnia, dizziness, headache, irritability, fatigue and light-sensitive eyes. This supplement may also interact with blood-pressure medications, cholesterol medications, blood-thinning medications, warfarin, chemotherapy medications and medications for depression.
Dosage
Dosages of CoQ10 for adults range from 30 mg to 1200 mg per day, split into multiple doses. Most people take 200 mg or less per day. Children and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should only take CoQ10 under the supervision of a doctor. Gel-capsule versions of CoQ10 are best absorbed; taking your CoQ10 with meals containing fat and taking it at night may increase the amount absorbed.
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