Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is an antioxidant and enzyme that the body produces to create cellular energy in the mitochondria. Natural levels of CoQ10 decrease as you age, and supplementation may help patients with cardiovascular and neurological disorders, diabetes and even cancer. It is also believed that certain prescription drugs, especially statins, can lower natural levels of CoQ10. Your doctor can determine if your levels of CoQ10 are sufficient and recommend a supplement if needed.
Cardiovascular Disease
Clinical studies clearly indicate that CoQ10 can increase cellular energy, decrease the likelihood of blood clots and act as an antioxidant, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. These effects all show promise in treating and dealing with a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure and even heart failure. This is because the enzyme can decrease inflammation and swelling, allowing blood to flow more easily throughout the body. In fact, a 1994 study published in the "Molecular Aspects of Medicine" determined that adding CoQ10 to hypertension patients' medication regimen resulted in lower blood pressure readings over time and thus a reduction in the amount of prescription medication required. However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness for treating other heart conditions.
Neurological Conditions
According to a 2005 report published in "American Family Physician," CoQ10's greatest promise as an alternative therapy lies in the treatment of neurological disorders including Parkinson's disease and migraines. Though its effects on Parkinson's disease still await clinical confirmation, other studies have indicated a link between lowered migraine frequency and taking CoQ10; the FDA has actually approved CoQ10 as a treatment for Huntington's disease and mitochondrial disorders.
Other Diseases
Research supporting the use of CoQ10 supplements for many diseases and conditions is lacking, but the University of Maryland Medical Center states that the enzyme may also help to prevent dramatic swings in blood glucose levels in diabetics and even help to shrink tumors in breast cancer patients. Consult with your doctor to determine if you may be a good candidate for supplementation for these purposes, as side effects can be severe.
Prescription Medication
If you are prescribed statin drugs for high cholesterol, research indicates that you may benefit from taking CoQ10. A 2005 study published in "Biofactors" found that supplemental CoQ10 reduced and even reversed the negative side effects of statins such as memory loss and fatigue, and patients were eventually able to discontinue their statin drugs without consequences. Always consult with your doctor before discontinuing prescription medication or adding a supplement to your regimen, as side effects are possible.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Coenzyme Q10
- The University of Maryland Medical Center: Coenzyme Q10
- "Molecular Aspects of Medicine"; Treatment of Essential Hypertension with Coenzyme Q10; P. Langsjoen et al.; 1994
- "Biofactors"; Treatment of Statin Adverse Effects with Supplemental CoQ10...; P.H. Langsjoen et al.; 2005
- American Family Physician; Coenzyme Q10; Bonakdar et al; Sep 2005
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