Restless leg syndrome, or RLS, is a disorder which causes uncomfortable, tingling or crawling sensations in the legs that are only relieved by moving the legs. These sensations usually occur when lying down to sleep at night or during the day when sitting for long periods of time. RLS can lead to lack of sleep and difficulty sitting still during meetings, classes or travel. RLS may occur with Parkinson's disease, a condition for which a substance called coenzyme Q10 may produce therapeutic benefits.
CoQ10 for Restless Leg Syndrome
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a vitamin-like substance found in the body. CoQ10 also is made in laboratories and sold as a dietary supplement. It is not commonly used for restless leg syndrome, and there is no clinical evidence indicating CoQ10 as an effective treatment for RLS. However, CoQ10 may be useful for people who suffer from RLS as a symptom of Parkinson's disease. RLS may occur more often in patients with Parkinson's, and there is some evidence that CoQ10 supplements may reduce the progression and symptoms of Parkinson's when taken in the early stages of the disease, according to MedlinePlus. MedlinePlus rates CoQ10 as a "possibly effective" treatment for Parkinson's disease. However, you should not take CoQ10 without first consulting your doctor.
Other Coenzyme Q10 Uses
While CoQ10 is not a proven treatment for RLS, there are other clinical uses for this supplement. MedlinePlus rates CoQ10 as "likely effective" in treating CoQ10 deficiency, a rare condition that may cause fatigue, weakness and seizures. CoQ10 also is likely effective at improving symptoms of mitochondrial disorders, according to MedlinePlus. Besides Parkinson's disease, evidence indicates CoQ10 is a "possibly effective" treatment for a number of other conditions, including congestive heart failure, Huntington's disease, high blood pressure, migraine headaches and for reducing risk of further heart problems if you've had a recent heart attack, according to MedlinePlus. As with coenzyme Q10 for restless leg syndrome related to Parkinson's disease, you should only take CoQ10 for these other conditions under a doctor's supervision.
Restless Leg Syndrome Treatments
The exact cause of RLS is unknown, and there is no known cure for it, according to PubMed Health. However, in addition to Parkinson's disease, RLS also is associated with iron deficiency, neuropathy, kidney disease, pregnancy and taking certain medications. Addressing the apparent underlying cause may help treat RLS in these individuals. For example, individuals with RLS and iron deficiency may experience symptom relief from taking iron medication. Other medications that may reduce symptoms of RLS include narcotics, tranquilizers and certain medications for epilepsy, Parkinson's disease and neuropathy. Home treatments aimed at reducing stress and muscle tension, such as warm baths, massages and gentle stretching also may help reduce symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
CoQ10 Precautions
According to MedlinePlus, coenzyme Q10 is likely safe for adults when taken by mouth. In some people, CoQ10 may cause mild gastrointestinal side effects, such as upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea. It also can cause allergic skin rashes in some people. Not enough is known about the safety of CoQ10 during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it is best to avoid this supplement while pregnant or nursing. CoQ10 may interfere with blood pressure control during surgery and while taking medications for high blood pressure, so it's important to stop using CoQ10 at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery and to check with you doctor before taking CoQ10 with blood pressure medication, reports MedlinePlus. CoQ10 also may interact with chemotherapy and warfarin, so caution is advised when taking CoQ10 with these treatments.
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