Coenzyme Q10, also called CoQ10 or ubiquinone, is biological molecule that is found in all of your cells. Your body uses CoQ10 in the maintenance of cell membrane integrity and as a factor necessary for energy production, according to an April 2007 article published in "Neurochemical Research." Coenzyme Q10 is found in many of the structures your body used to convert food to energy. A deficiency in CoQ10 can lead to a variety of potentially lethal complications.
Symptoms of Deficiency
A deficiency in coenzyme Q10 can manifest in numerous ways. Some patients may develop muscle damage, brain abnormalities and increased muscle proteins within the urine, an article in the journal "Mitochondrion" explains. Infants with CoQ10 deficiency may suffer from a encephalopathy, which is abnormal brain function, and kidney disease. Other patients may suffer from cerebellar ataxia, or loss of full control over body movements. All of these symptoms point to a neurological injury caused by CoQ10 deficiency. Usually these symptoms present when you are child, but there have been some cases of adult-onset CoQ10 deficiency.
Causes of Deficiency
The causes of CoQ10 deficiency include insufficient dietary intake, improper synthesis of CoQ10, excessive use of CoQ10 by the body, or a combination of the three, the University of Washington notes. Only patients suffering from severe malnutrition are at risk of having a diet insufficient in CoQ10. Certain genetic conditions and use of drugs such as HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, which are used for lowering cholesterol, can cause impairment in CoQ10 production. Lastly, excessive exertion, acute cases of shock and hypermetabolism are all reasons why the body would use too much CoQ10.
Treatment
Most forms of CoQ10 deficiency respond well to oral treatment with CoQ10 supplements. Treatment ranges from 50 mg to 1,200 mg of CoQ10 per day, MayoClinic.com reports. The dosage is divided evenly throughout the day. Early treatment is key, as a delay in diagnosis and treatment could lead to permanent damage, especially to the cerebellum. Talk to your doctor if you suspect that you or a family member may be suffering from CoQ10 deficiency.
Side of Effects of CoQ10 Supplements
Though rare, there are some side effects associated with CoQ10 supplements. You may develop a mild allergy to CoQ10 supplements, which can manifest as itching or a rash, MayoClinic.com warns. Other mild side effects include nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach upset, appetite loss, fatigue, headache and insomnia. These effects are usually temporary. CoQ10 may cause lower blood sugar and low platelet levels. You may notice a sudden decrease in blood pressure while taking CoQ10. This dip in blood pressure can lead to complications, like organ damage. There is not enough evidence to guarantee the safety of CoQ10 in pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. Always consult a doctor before taking CoQ10 supplements.
References
- Mayo Clinic; Coenzyme Q10 --Dosing; April 2011
- Mayo Clinic; Coenzyme Q10 --Safety; April 2011
- University of Washington; Intorduction to Coenzyme Q10; Peter H. Langsjoen, M.D., F.A.C.C.; 1994
- Neurochemical Research; "Human Coenzyme Q10 Deficiency"; Catarina M. Quinzii et al; November 10, 2006
- Mitochondrion; "CoQ10 deficiency diseases in adults"; Catarina M. Quinzii et al; March 27. 2007
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