Coenzyme Q10 is a vital chemical substance found in every cell in the human body. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, "CoQ10 is involved in making an important molecule known as adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP serves as the cell's major energy source and drives a number of biological processes, including muscle contraction and the production of protein." Chemically much like a vitamin, coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant that destroys damaging free-radical cells, and has many diverse uses.
Uses
Coenzyme Q10 is used in treating a number of conditions, including asthma, heart disease, high blood pressure, heart failure, high cholesterol, diabetes, chronic fatigue, kidney failure, cancer and gum disease. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, "Clinical research indicates that introducing CoQ10 prior to heart surgery...can reduce damage caused by free-radicals, strengthen heart function, and lower the incidence of irregular heart beat (arrhythmia) during the recovery phase."
Side Effects
Side effects of coenzyme Q10 are minor and easily treated, but have been reported. Side effects include skin rash, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, stomach upset, heartburn, headache, insomnia, dizziness, irritability, fatigue and flu-like symptoms. It is helpful to take coenzyme Q10 with meals for optimal absorption and to avoid gastric symptoms. It is always best to consult a physician before taking supplements to prevent side effects and adverse interactions.
Availability and Recommended Dosage
Coenzyme Q10 is available in foods such as salmon, tuna, organ meats and whole grains, and in supplement form. Coenzyme Q10 supplements are not recommended for pregnant and nursing women or for children 18 years old or younger. Recommended dosage of supplements for adults 19 years of age or older is 50mg to 1200mg per day, based on activity level. Levels of coenzyme Q10 may decrease with extreme exercise, over-exertion, hyper-metabolism and acute shock.
Safe Usage While taking Other Medications
Possible medication interactions may occur while taking coenzyme Q10 and must be closely monitored. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, coenzyme Q10 has been reported to decrease the effectiveness of some cancer drugs, such as daunorubicin and doxorubicin. Coenzyme Q10 has also been known to enhance the effectiveness of blood pressure medications, excessively lowering blood pressure, and may decrease the effectiveness of blood thinners such as warfarin.
Other Medication Considerations
Some medications may deplete coenzyme Q10 levels in the body, leading to deficiency of coenzyme Q10. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, statins and fibric derivatives for cholesterol, for example, have been known to alter coenzyme Q10. Other medications that diminish coenzyme Q10 levels include tricyclic anti-depressants such as Elavil, as well as beta blockers for high blood pressure. Coenzyme Q10 deficiency is characterized by decreased immune function, increased fatigue in fatigue syndromes, decreased sperm motility, decreased athletic performance and even accelerated aging.
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