Depression is a chronic illness that can be very serious, especially if it goes untreated. It typically requires long-term treatment, says the Mayo Clinic website, and there are many types of treatment available. Coenzyme Q10 is a natural enzyme shown to have benefits for depression in some individuals. If you suffer from depression, talk with your doctor about whether this enzyme can help you before consuming it.
What is Coenzyme Q10?
The human body naturally makes coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, and it comes in supplement form. This substance helps make adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, a main energy source for the body, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. It is an antioxidant that helps to protect cells against damage from free radicals and aids in healthy immune system functioning. CoQ10 is naturally in salmon, tuna, whole grains and liver, and most individuals get enough of this enzyme through diet alone.
Depression and Chronic Fatigue
Individuals with depression may suffer from fatigue, and CoQ10 may play a role in this symptom. According to a 2009 study by M. Maes et al, published in "Neuroendocrinology Letters," plasma levels of CoQ10 were lower in depressed subjects than in non-depressed participants, especially in patients whose depression was resistant to treatment and those with chronic fatigue syndrome. Study participants hypothesize that inflammation of various pathways and lowered antioxidant status have an association with depression, and CoQ10 helps reduce inflammation and provides antioxidant benefits.
Side Effects
Like many medications for depression, you may experience side effects when taking CoQ10. Not everyone experiences side effects, and they can vary among individuals. Drugs.com lists possible side effects as including loss of appetite, diarrhea, upset stomach, nausea and sleep difficulties. If you have serious allergic reactions like hives, itching or trouble breathing, call your doctor immediately. Before taking CoQ10, talk with your doctor about all the possible side effects and what warning signs to look out for when consuming it.
Considerations
Depression is a serious but treatable illness, and there is help available. Talk with your health care provider about your symptoms, or your depression, and discuss your options. There is medication, talk therapy and other treatments available, and natural supplements like CoQ10 may be beneficial to you. Before taking CoQ10, ask your doctor if it is safe for you to take, as it may interact with drugs or supplements you are taking.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Coenzyme Q10; Dr. Steven Ehrlich; 2009
- National Center for Biotechnology Information; "Neuroendocrinology Letters"; Lower Plasma CoenzymeQ10 in Depression: A Marker for Treatment Resistance and Chronic Fatigue in Depression and a Risk Factor to Cardiovascular Disorder in That Illness; M Maes et al; 2009
- Drugs.com; Coenzyme Q10 Side Effects; 2011
- Mayo Clinic; Depression (Major Depression); Mayo Clinic Staff; February 2010
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