The term "heart failure" refers to the state in which decreased heart function is accompanied by a buildup of body fluid in the lungs, feet, legs and, in some cases, the liver or abdominal cavity. The common symptoms of heart failure include shortness of breath, fatigue, weakness and an inability to exert oneself physically or mentally. An alternative treatment for such a condition is CoQ10 supplements. Tell your doctor about any supplements that you are taking for heart failure.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is a compound that is essential for the normal function of specific enzymes in your body. The compound is involved in the production of energy in the form of the adenosine triphosphate molecule. Because the heart muscle cells require more energy than any other cells in your body, the heart is very sensitive to a coenzyme Q10 deficiency. CoQ10 is the only fat-soluble antioxidant that fights free radicals, damaging compounds in the body that alter cell membranes. Scientists think free radicals contribute to number of diseases, including heart disease, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
CoQ10 Levels
A study published in the November 2006 "European Heart Journal" found that the levels of CoQ10 are low in patients with advanced chronic heart failure, a progressive disorder that occurs when one or more of the heart's four chambers loses its ability to pump blood efficiently to the body. Coenzyme Q10 works by improving the heart's pumping ability. According to the researchers, coenzyme Q10 supplements may increase exercise capacity and enhance breathing in people with congestive heart failure.
Treatment
A study published in the April 18, 2000, "Annals of Internal Medicine" found that coenzyme Q10 at dosage of 200 mg daily was no more effective than placebo in improving ejection fraction, peak oxygen consumption, exercise duration, or quality of life in people with congestive heart failure. However, CoQ10 in combination with carnitine and taurine may reduce the symptoms of heart failure, according to study published in the June 2002 "American Heart Journal."
Precautions
The side effects of Co Q10 are mild and usually present themselves only at higher than recommended dosages. If you are taking a blood thinner such as warfarin or clopidigrel, you should talk to your doctor before taking Co Q10. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, there have been reports that CoQ10 may decrease the effectiveness of blood-thinning medications. CoQ10 supplementation should not be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
References
- Heart Failure Society of America: What is Heart Failure?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Coenzyme Q10
- "European Heart Journal"; Coenzyme Q10 and exercise training in chronic heart failure; R. Belardinelli et al.; November 2006
- "American Heart Journal"; Nutritional Supplementation with MyoVive Repletes Essential Cardiac Myocyte Nutrients and Reduces Left Ventricular Size in Patients with Left Ventricular Dysfunction; F. Jeejeebhoy et al.; June 2002
- "Annals of Internal Medicine"; The Effect of Coenzyme Q10 in Patients with Congestive Heart Failure; M. Khatta et al.; April 2000.
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