Re: Coenzyme Q10....can be an amazing addition to your regeim !

[Guest guest]

I am basically a coq10 expert. I had 2 babies that died from mitochondrial disease and coq10 is manufactured in the mitochondria of every cell. SOOOO, don't bother taking any other brand of coq10 besides Tishcon brand. You can get it at epic4health.com or just google Tishcon coq10. It is expensive but it was tested to actually go into the cell and out to all the systems that can use it by mitochondrial disease specialists. The other brands are bogus and aren't absorbed.

dgrahama@...From: DGRAHAMA@...Date: Mon, 3 Jan 2011 09:51:10 -0500Subject: Coenzyme Q10....can be an amazing addition to your regeim !

I personally take 300 mg a day. I am a heart patient

and I also take one of the meds listed. I also had the spectra cell

comprehensive nutrient test (http://www.spectracell.com/micronutrient-testing-comprehensive-nutritional-panel/ ) ( I highly recommend this test ! ) showing that I was very depleted of this, amongst many others, I was found to be extremely vitamin deficient....

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/coenzyme-q10-000295.htm

Coenzyme Q10

Overview:

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a compound found naturally in the energy-producing center of the cell known as the mitochondria. 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. CoQ10 also works as an antioxidant.

Antioxidants are substances that scavenge free radicals, damaging compounds in the body that alter cell membranes, tamper with DNA, and even cause cell death. Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but environmental toxins (including ultraviolet light, radiation, cigarette smoking, and air pollution) can also increase the number of these damaging particles. Scientists believe free radicals contribute to the aging process, as well as the development of a number of health problems, including heart disease and cancer. Antioxidants, such as CoQ10, can neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause.

Uses:

CoQ10 boosts energy, enhances the immune system, and acts as an antioxidant. Clinical research suggests that using coenzyme Q10 supplements alone or in combination with other drug therapies and nutritional supplements may help prevent or treat some of the following conditions:

Heart disease

Researchers believe that the beneficial effect of CoQ10 in the prevention and treatment of heart disease is due to its ability to improve energy production in cells, inhibit blood clot formation, and act as an antioxidant. One important clinical study, for example, found that people who received daily CoQ10 supplements within 3 days of a heart attack were significantly less likely to experience subsequent heart attacks and chest pain. In addition, these same patients were less likely to die of heart disease than those who did not receive the supplements.

Heart failure (HF)

Levels of CoQ10 are low in people with congestive heart failure (HF), a debilitating disease that occurs when the heart is not able to pump blood effectively. This can cause blood to pool in parts of the body, such as the lungs and legs. Information from several clinical studies suggests that CoQ10 supplements help reduce swelling in the legs, enhance breathing by reducing fluid in the lungs, and increase exercise capacity in people with HF. Not all clinical studies agree, however. As a result, some experts conclude that CoQ10 supplements do not contribute any benefit to the usual conventional treatment for HF. More research is needed to resolve the debate.

High blood pressure

Several clinical studies involving small numbers of people suggest that CoQ10 may lower blood pressure. However, it may take 4 - 12 weeks before you will see any beneficial effects. In fact, after reviewing 12 clinical studies, researchers concluded that CoQ10 has the potential to lower systolic blood pressure by up to 17 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 10 mm Hg, without significant side effects. More research with greater numbers of people is needed to assess the value of CoQ10 in the treatment of high blood pressure.

High cholesterol

Levels of CoQ10 tend to be lower in people with high cholesterol compared to healthy individuals of the same age. In addition, certain cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins (such as atorvastatin, cerivastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin, simvastatin) appear to deplete natural levels of CoQ10 in the body. Taking CoQ10 supplements can correct the deficiency caused by statin medications without affecting the medication's positive effects on cholesterol levels. Plus, studies show that CoQ10 supplementation may decrease the muscle pain associated with statin treatment.

Diabetes

CoQ10 supplements may improve heart health and blood sugar and help manage high cholesterol and high blood pressure in individuals with diabetes. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease are all common problems associated with diabetes. Despite some concern that CoQ10 may cause a sudden and dramatic drop in blood sugar (called hypoglycemia), two recent clinical studies in people with diabetes given CoQ10, 200 mg 2 times daily, showed no hypoglycemic response. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor or registered dietitian before using CoQ10.

Heart damage caused by chemotherapy

Several clinical studies suggest that CoQ10 may help prevent heart damage caused by certain chemotherapy drugs (namely adriamycin or other athracycline medications). More studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of CoQ10 in preventing heart damage in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Talk to your doctor before adding any supplements to your regimen if you are undergoing chemotherapy.

Heart surgery

Clinical research indicates that introducing CoQ10 prior to heart surgery, including bypass surgery and heart transplantation, can reduce damage caused by free radicals, strengthen heart function, and lower the incidence of irregular heart beat (arrhythmias) during the recovery phase.

Breast cancer

Studies of women with breast cancer suggest that CoQ10 supplements (in addition to conventional treatment and a nutritional regimen including other antioxidants and essential fatty acids) may shrink tumors, reduce pain associated with the condition, and cause partial remission in some individuals. However, the beneficial effects these women experienced cannot be attributed to CoQ10 alone. Additional antioxidants used in these studies include vitamins C, E, and selenium.

Periodontal (gum) disease

Gum disease is a widespread problem that is associated with swelling, bleeding, pain, and redness of the gums. Clinical studies show that people with gum disease tend to have low levels of CoQ10 in their gums. In a few clinical studies involving small numbers of subjects, CoQ10 supplements caused faster healing and tissue repair. CoQ10 is used in mouth rinse products for this condition. Additional studies in humans are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of CoQ10 when used together with traditional therapy for periodontal disease.

Other

Preliminary clinical studies also suggest that CoQ10 may:

Improve immune function in individuals with immune deficiencies (such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome or AIDS) and chronic infections (such as yeast, bacteria, and viral infections) Increase sperm motility leading to enhanced fertility Be used as part of the treatment for Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease Reduce damage from stroke Boost athletic performance Enhance physical activity in people with fatigue syndromes Improve exercise tolerance in individuals with muscular dystrophy Improve symptoms of tinnitus, or ringing in the ears Be beneficial in cosmetics for healthy skin Delay the aging process and increase longevity

Clinical research in all of these areas is underway to determine whether CoQ10 can be safely and effectively used in people with these health problems and needs.

Dietary Sources:

Primary dietary sources of CoQ10 include oily fish (such as salmon and tuna), organ meats (such as liver), and whole grains. Most individuals obtain sufficient amounts of CoQ10 through a balanced diet, but supplementation may be useful for individuals with particular health conditions (see "Uses" section) or those taking certain medications (see "Interactions" section).

Available Forms:

CoQ10 is available as a supplement in several forms, including soft gel capsules, oral spray, hard shell capsules, and tablets. CoQ10 is also added to various cosmetics.

How to Take It:

Pediatric

Use of CoQ10 in children under 18 years of age is only recommended under the supervision of a health care provider.

Adult

For adults 19 years and older: The recommended dose for CoQ10 supplementation is 30 - 200 mg daily. Soft gels tend to be better absorbed by the body than capsules or other preparations.

CoQ10 is fat-soluble so should be taken with a meal containing fat for optimal absorption. Also, taking CoQ10 at night may help with the body's ability to use it.

CoQ10 may be used as an oral mouth rinse for gum disease (periodontal). Rinse with 1 teaspoonful (5 mL), 1 - 2 times daily.

Precautions:

Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, you should take dietary supplements only under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider.

Coenzyme Q10 appears to be generally safe with no significant side effects, except occasional stomach upset. However, the safety of CoQ10 supplementation during pregnancy and breastfeeding is unknown and, therefore, should not be used during that time until more information is available.

Possible Interactions:

If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use CoQ10 without first talking to your health care provider.

Daunorubicin and doxorubicin -- CoQ10 may help reduce the toxic effects on the heart caused by daunorubicin (Cerubidin) and doxorubicin (Adriamycin), two chemotherapy medications that are commonly used to treat several kinds of cancer. Always speak to your oncologist before taking antioxidants along with chemotherapy.

Blood pressure medications -- In a clinical study of individuals taking blood pressure medications, including diltiazem (Cardizem), metoprolol (Lopressor or Toprol), enalapril (Vasotec), and nitroglycerin (Nitrostat or Nitrobid), CoQ10 supplementation allowed the individuals to take lower dosages of these drugs. This suggests that CoQ10 may enhance the effectiveness of certain blood pressure medications, but more research is needed to verify these results.

Blood-thinning medications -- There have been reports that CoQ10 may decrease the effectiveness of blood-thinning medications such as warfarin (Coumadin) or clopidigrel (Plavix), leading to the need for increased doses. Therefore, given that this medication must be monitored very closely for maintenance of appropriate levels and steady blood thinning, CoQ10 should be used with warfarin only under careful supervision by your health care provider.

Timolol -- CoQ10 supplementation may reduce the heart-related side effects of timolol drops (Betoptic), a beta-blocker medication used to treat glaucoma, without decreasing the effectiveness of the medication.

Other -- Medications that can lower the levels of CoQ10 in the body include statins for cholesterol , including atorvastatin (Lipitor), lovastatin (Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol, and simvastatin (Zocor), fibric acid derivatives for cholesterol, including gemfibrozil (Lopid), beta-blockers for high blood pressure, such as atenolol (Tenormin), labetolol (Normodyne), metoprolol (Lopressor or Toprol), and propranolol (Inderal), and tricyclic antidepressant medications, including amitriptyline (Elavil), doxepin (Sinequan), and imipramine (Tofranil).

Alternative Names:

CoQ10; Ubiquinone

Reviewed last on: 3/20/2009 D. Ehrlich, NMD, private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

When the power of love

overcomes the love of power the world will know peace.

~ Jimi Hendrix

[Guest guest]

I'm so sorry to hear about your babies!

I'm looking at the info about the Tishcon CoQ10, and had a question....

What about taking Ubiquinol?

It appears to be the absorbable form....

Thanks! I hope you are doing OK yourself....

Patty

>

>

> I am basically a coq10 expert. I had 2 babies that died from mitochondrial

disease and coq10 is manufactured in the mitochondria of every cell. SOOOO,

don't bother taking any other brand of coq10 besides Tishcon brand. You can get

it at epic4health.com or just google Tishcon coq10. It is expensive but it was

tested to actually go into the cell and out to all the systems that can use it

by mitochondrial disease specialists. The other brands are bogus and aren't

absorbed.

>

>

>

> dgrahama@...

> From: DGRAHAMA@...

> Date: Mon, 3 Jan 2011 09:51:10 -0500

> Subject: Coenzyme Q10....can be an amazing addition to your

regeim !

>

>

>

>

>

>

>

> I personally take 300 mg a day. I am a heart patient

> and I also take one of the meds listed. I also had the spectra cell

> comprehensive nutrient test

(http://www.spectracell.com/micronutrient-testing-comprehensive-nutritional-pane\

l/ ) ( I highly recommend this test ! ) showing that I was very depleted of

this, amongst many others, I was found to be extremely vitamin deficient....

>

> http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/coenzyme-q10-000295.htm

>

> Coenzyme Q10

>

>

> Overview:

> Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a compound found naturally in the energy-producing

center of the cell known as the mitochondria. 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. CoQ10 also works as

an antioxidant.

> Antioxidants are substances that scavenge free radicals, damaging compounds in

the body that alter cell membranes, tamper with DNA, and even cause cell death.

Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but environmental toxins (including

ultraviolet light, radiation, cigarette smoking, and air pollution) can also

increase the number of these damaging particles. Scientists believe free

radicals contribute to the aging process, as well as the development of a number

of health problems, including heart disease and cancer. Antioxidants, such as

CoQ10, can neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of

the damage they cause.

>

> Uses:

> CoQ10 boosts energy, enhances the immune system, and acts as an antioxidant.

Clinical research suggests that using coenzyme Q10 supplements alone or in

combination with other drug therapies and nutritional supplements may help

prevent or treat some of the following conditions:

> Heart disease

> Researchers believe that the beneficial effect of CoQ10 in the prevention and

treatment of heart disease is due to its ability to improve energy production in

cells, inhibit blood clot formation, and act as an antioxidant. One important

clinical study, for example, found that people who received daily CoQ10

supplements within 3 days of a heart attack were significantly less likely to

experience subsequent heart attacks and chest pain. In addition, these same

patients were less likely to die of heart disease than those who did not receive

the supplements.

> Heart failure (HF)

> Levels of CoQ10 are low in people with congestive heart failure (HF), a

debilitating disease that occurs when the heart is not able to pump blood

effectively. This can cause blood to pool in parts of the body, such as the

lungs and legs. Information from several clinical studies suggests that CoQ10

supplements help reduce swelling in the legs, enhance breathing by reducing

fluid in the lungs, and increase exercise capacity in people with HF. Not all

clinical studies agree, however. As a result, some experts conclude that CoQ10

supplements do not contribute any benefit to the usual conventional treatment

for HF. More research is needed to resolve the debate.

> High blood pressure

> Several clinical studies involving small numbers of people suggest that CoQ10

may lower blood pressure. However, it may take 4 - 12 weeks before you will see

any beneficial effects. In fact, after reviewing 12 clinical studies,

researchers concluded that CoQ10 has the potential to lower systolic blood

pressure by up to 17 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 10 mm Hg, without

significant side effects. More research with greater numbers of people is needed

to assess the value of CoQ10 in the treatment of high blood pressure.

> High cholesterol

> Levels of CoQ10 tend to be lower in people with high cholesterol compared to

healthy individuals of the same age. In addition, certain cholesterol-lowering

drugs called statins (such as atorvastatin, cerivastatin, lovastatin,

pravastatin, simvastatin) appear to deplete natural levels of CoQ10 in the body.

Taking CoQ10 supplements can correct the deficiency caused by statin medications

without affecting the medication's positive effects on cholesterol levels. Plus,

studies show that CoQ10 supplementation may decrease the muscle pain associated

with statin treatment.

> Diabetes

> CoQ10 supplements may improve heart health and blood sugar and help manage

high cholesterol and high blood pressure in individuals with diabetes. High

blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease are all common problems

associated with diabetes. Despite some concern that CoQ10 may cause a sudden and

dramatic drop in blood sugar (called hypoglycemia), two recent clinical studies

in people with diabetes given CoQ10, 200 mg 2 times daily, showed no

hypoglycemic response. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor or registered

dietitian before using CoQ10.

> Heart damage caused by chemotherapy

> Several clinical studies suggest that CoQ10 may help prevent heart damage

caused by certain chemotherapy drugs (namely adriamycin or other athracycline

medications). More studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of CoQ10 in

preventing heart damage in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Talk to your

doctor before adding any supplements to your regimen if you are undergoing

chemotherapy.

> Heart surgery

> Clinical research indicates that introducing CoQ10 prior to heart surgery,

including bypass surgery and heart transplantation, can reduce damage caused by

free radicals, strengthen heart function, and lower the incidence of irregular

heart beat (arrhythmias) during the recovery phase.

> Breast cancer

> Studies of women with breast cancer suggest that CoQ10 supplements (in

addition to conventional treatment and a nutritional regimen including other

antioxidants and essential fatty acids) may shrink tumors, reduce pain

associated with the condition, and cause partial remission in some individuals.

However, the beneficial effects these women experienced cannot be attributed to

CoQ10 alone. Additional antioxidants used in these studies include vitamins C,

E, and selenium.

> Periodontal (gum) disease

> Gum disease is a widespread problem that is associated with swelling,

bleeding, pain, and redness of the gums. Clinical studies show that people with

gum disease tend to have low levels of CoQ10 in their gums. In a few clinical

studies involving small numbers of subjects, CoQ10 supplements caused faster

healing and tissue repair. CoQ10 is used in mouth rinse products for this

condition. Additional studies in humans are needed to evaluate the effectiveness

of CoQ10 when used together with traditional therapy for periodontal disease.

> Other

> Preliminary clinical studies also suggest that CoQ10 may:

>

> Improve immune function in individuals with immune deficiencies (such as

acquired immunodeficiency syndrome or AIDS) and chronic infections (such as

yeast, bacteria, and viral infections)

> Increase sperm motility leading to enhanced fertility

> Be used as part of the treatment for Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's

disease

> Reduce damage from stroke

> Boost athletic performance

> Enhance physical activity in people with fatigue syndromes

> Improve exercise tolerance in individuals with muscular dystrophy

> Improve symptoms of tinnitus, or ringing in the ears

> Be beneficial in cosmetics for healthy skin

> Delay the aging process and increase longevity

> Clinical research in all of these areas is underway to determine whether CoQ10

can be safely and effectively used in people with these health problems and

needs.

>

> Dietary Sources:

> Primary dietary sources of CoQ10 include oily fish (such as salmon and tuna),

organ meats (such as liver), and whole grains. Most individuals obtain

sufficient amounts of CoQ10 through a balanced diet, but supplementation may be

useful for individuals with particular health conditions (see " Uses " section) or

those taking certain medications (see " Interactions " section).

>

> Available Forms:

> CoQ10 is available as a supplement in several forms, including soft gel

capsules, oral spray, hard shell capsules, and tablets. CoQ10 is also added to

various cosmetics.

>

> How to Take It:

> Pediatric

> Use of CoQ10 in children under 18 years of age is only recommended under the

supervision of a health care provider.

> Adult

> For adults 19 years and older: The recommended dose for CoQ10 supplementation

is 30 - 200 mg daily. Soft gels tend to be better absorbed by the body than

capsules or other preparations.

> CoQ10 is fat-soluble so should be taken with a meal containing fat for optimal

absorption. Also, taking CoQ10 at night may help with the body's ability to use

it.

> CoQ10 may be used as an oral mouth rinse for gum disease (periodontal). Rinse

with 1 teaspoonful (5 mL), 1 - 2 times daily.

>

> Precautions:

> Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications,

you should take dietary supplements only under the supervision of a

knowledgeable health care provider.

> Coenzyme Q10 appears to be generally safe with no significant side effects,

except occasional stomach upset. However, the safety of CoQ10 supplementation

during pregnancy and breastfeeding is unknown and, therefore, should not be used

during that time until more information is available.

>

> Possible Interactions:

> If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you

should not use CoQ10 without first talking to your health care provider.

> Daunorubicin and doxorubicin -- CoQ10 may help reduce the toxic effects on the

heart caused by daunorubicin (Cerubidin) and doxorubicin (Adriamycin), two

chemotherapy medications that are commonly used to treat several kinds of

cancer. Always speak to your oncologist before taking antioxidants along with

chemotherapy.

> Blood pressure medications -- In a clinical study of individuals taking blood

pressure medications, including diltiazem (Cardizem), metoprolol (Lopressor or

Toprol), enalapril (Vasotec), and nitroglycerin (Nitrostat or Nitrobid), CoQ10

supplementation allowed the individuals to take lower dosages of these drugs.

This suggests that CoQ10 may enhance the effectiveness of certain blood pressure

medications, but more research is needed to verify these results.

> Blood-thinning medications -- There have been reports that CoQ10 may decrease

the effectiveness of blood-thinning medications such as warfarin (Coumadin) or

clopidigrel (Plavix), leading to the need for increased doses. Therefore, given

that this medication must be monitored very closely for maintenance of

appropriate levels and steady blood thinning, CoQ10 should be used with warfarin

only under careful supervision by your health care provider.

> Timolol -- CoQ10 supplementation may reduce the heart-related side effects of

timolol drops (Betoptic), a beta-blocker medication used to treat glaucoma,

without decreasing the effectiveness of the medication.

> Other -- Medications that can lower the levels of CoQ10 in the body include

statins for cholesterol , including atorvastatin (Lipitor), lovastatin

(Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol, and simvastatin (Zocor), fibric acid

derivatives for cholesterol, including gemfibrozil (Lopid), beta-blockers for

high blood pressure, such as atenolol (Tenormin), labetolol (Normodyne),

metoprolol (Lopressor or Toprol), and propranolol (Inderal), and tricyclic

antidepressant medications, including amitriptyline (Elavil), doxepin

(Sinequan), and imipramine (Tofranil).

>

> Alternative Names:

> CoQ10; Ubiquinone

>

> Reviewed last on: 3/20/2009

> D. Ehrlich, NMD, private practice specializing in complementary and

alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare

Network.

>

>

> When the power of love

> overcomes the love of power

> the world will know peace.

> ~ Jimi Hendrix

>

[Guest guest]

~

Thank you for the info, I will certainly research this

brand.....I am so sorry you had to experience the loss

of 2 children....that must have been extremely difficult

for you. My thoughts and prayers are with you !

Dede

When the power of love

overcomes the love of power

the world will know peace.

~ Jimi Hendrix

Coenzyme Q10....can be an amazing addition to your regeim !

I personally take 300 mg a day. I am a heart patient

and I also take one of the meds listed. I also had the spectra cell

comprehensive nutrient test (http://www.spectracell.com/micronutrient-testing-comprehensive-nutritional-panel/ ) ( I highly recommend this test ! ) showing that I was very depleted of this, amongst many others, I was found to be extremely vitamin deficient....

http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/coenzyme-q10-000295.htm

Coenzyme Q10

Overview:

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a compound found naturally in the energy-producing center of the cell known as the mitochondria. 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. CoQ10 also works as an antioxidant.

Antioxidants are substances that scavenge free radicals, damaging compounds in the body that alter cell membranes, tamper with DNA, and even cause cell death. Free radicals occur naturally in the body, but environmental toxins (including ultraviolet light, radiation, cigarette smoking, and air pollution) can also increase the number of these damaging particles. Scientists believe free radicals contribute to the aging process, as well as the development of a number of health problems, including heart disease and cancer. Antioxidants, such as CoQ10, can neutralize free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause.

Uses:

CoQ10 boosts energy, enhances the immune system, and acts as an antioxidant. Clinical research suggests that using coenzyme Q10 supplements alone or in combination with other drug therapies and nutritional supplements may help prevent or treat some of the following conditions:

Heart disease

Researchers believe that the beneficial effect of CoQ10 in the prevention and treatment of heart disease is due to its ability to improve energy production in cells, inhibit blood clot formation, and act as an antioxidant. One important clinical study, for example, found that people who received daily CoQ10 supplements within 3 days of a heart attack were significantly less likely to experience subsequent heart attacks and chest pain. In addition, these same patients were less likely to die of heart disease than those who did not receive the supplements.

Heart failure (HF)

Levels of CoQ10 are low in people with congestive heart failure (HF), a debilitating disease that occurs when the heart is not able to pump blood effectively. This can cause blood to pool in parts of the body, such as the lungs and legs. Information from several clinical studies suggests that CoQ10 supplements help reduce swelling in the legs, enhance breathing by reducing fluid in the lungs, and increase exercise capacity in people with HF. Not all clinical studies agree, however. As a result, some experts conclude that CoQ10 supplements do not contribute any benefit to the usual conventional treatment for HF. More research is needed to resolve the debate.

High blood pressure

Several clinical studies involving small numbers of people suggest that CoQ10 may lower blood pressure. However, it may take 4 - 12 weeks before you will see any beneficial effects. In fact, after reviewing 12 clinical studies, researchers concluded that CoQ10 has the potential to lower systolic blood pressure by up to 17 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by 10 mm Hg, without significant side effects. More research with greater numbers of people is needed to assess the value of CoQ10 in the treatment of high blood pressure.

High cholesterol

Levels of CoQ10 tend to be lower in people with high cholesterol compared to healthy individuals of the same age. In addition, certain cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins (such as atorvastatin, cerivastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin, simvastatin) appear to deplete natural levels of CoQ10 in the body. Taking CoQ10 supplements can correct the deficiency caused by statin medications without affecting the medication's positive effects on cholesterol levels. Plus, studies show that CoQ10 supplementation may decrease the muscle pain associated with statin treatment.

Diabetes

CoQ10 supplements may improve heart health and blood sugar and help manage high cholesterol and high blood pressure in individuals with diabetes. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease are all common problems associated with diabetes. Despite some concern that CoQ10 may cause a sudden and dramatic drop in blood sugar (called hypoglycemia), two recent clinical studies in people with diabetes given CoQ10, 200 mg 2 times daily, showed no hypoglycemic response. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor or registered dietitian before using CoQ10.

Heart damage caused by chemotherapy

Several clinical studies suggest that CoQ10 may help prevent heart damage caused by certain chemotherapy drugs (namely adriamycin or other athracycline medications). More studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of CoQ10 in preventing heart damage in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Talk to your doctor before adding any supplements to your regimen if you are undergoing chemotherapy.

Heart surgery

Clinical research indicates that introducing CoQ10 prior to heart surgery, including bypass surgery and heart transplantation, can reduce damage caused by free radicals, strengthen heart function, and lower the incidence of irregular heart beat (arrhythmias) during the recovery phase.

Breast cancer

Studies of women with breast cancer suggest that CoQ10 supplements (in addition to conventional treatment and a nutritional regimen including other antioxidants and essential fatty acids) may shrink tumors, reduce pain associated with the condition, and cause partial remission in some individuals. However, the beneficial effects these women experienced cannot be attributed to CoQ10 alone. Additional antioxidants used in these studies include vitamins C, E, and selenium.

Periodontal (gum) disease

Gum disease is a widespread problem that is associated with swelling, bleeding, pain, and redness of the gums. Clinical studies show that people with gum disease tend to have low levels of CoQ10 in their gums. In a few clinical studies involving small numbers of subjects, CoQ10 supplements caused faster healing and tissue repair. CoQ10 is used in mouth rinse products for this condition. Additional studies in humans are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of CoQ10 when used together with traditional therapy for periodontal disease.

Other

Preliminary clinical studies also suggest that CoQ10 may:

Improve immune function in individuals with immune deficiencies (such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome or AIDS) and chronic infections (such as yeast, bacteria, and viral infections) Increase sperm motility leading to enhanced fertility Be used as part of the treatment for Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease Reduce damage from stroke Boost athletic performance Enhance physical activity in people with fatigue syndromes Improve exercise tolerance in individuals with muscular dystrophy Improve symptoms of tinnitus, or ringing in the ears Be beneficial in cosmetics for healthy skin Delay the aging process and increase longevity

Clinical research in all of these areas is underway to determine whether CoQ10 can be safely and effectively used in people with these health problems and needs.

Dietary Sources:

Primary dietary sources of CoQ10 include oily fish (such as salmon and tuna), organ meats (such as liver), and whole grains. Most individuals obtain sufficient amounts of CoQ10 through a balanced diet, but supplementation may be useful for individuals with particular health conditions (see "Uses" section) or those taking certain medications (see "Interactions" section).

Available Forms:

CoQ10 is available as a supplement in several forms, including soft gel capsules, oral spray, hard shell capsules, and tablets. CoQ10 is also added to various cosmetics.

How to Take It:

Pediatric

Use of CoQ10 in children under 18 years of age is only recommended under the supervision of a health care provider.

Adult

For adults 19 years and older: The recommended dose for CoQ10 supplementation is 30 - 200 mg daily. Soft gels tend to be better absorbed by the body than capsules or other preparations.

CoQ10 is fat-soluble so should be taken with a meal containing fat for optimal absorption. Also, taking CoQ10 at night may help with the body's ability to use it.

CoQ10 may be used as an oral mouth rinse for gum disease (periodontal). Rinse with 1 teaspoonful (5 mL), 1 - 2 times daily.

Precautions:

Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, you should take dietary supplements only under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider.

Coenzyme Q10 appears to be generally safe with no significant side effects, except occasional stomach upset. However, the safety of CoQ10 supplementation during pregnancy and breastfeeding is unknown and, therefore, should not be used during that time until more information is available.

Possible Interactions:

If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use CoQ10 without first talking to your health care provider.

Daunorubicin and doxorubicin -- CoQ10 may help reduce the toxic effects on the heart caused by daunorubicin (Cerubidin) and doxorubicin (Adriamycin), two chemotherapy medications that are commonly used to treat several kinds of cancer. Always speak to your oncologist before taking antioxidants along with chemotherapy.

Blood pressure medications -- In a clinical study of individuals taking blood pressure medications, including diltiazem (Cardizem), metoprolol (Lopressor or Toprol), enalapril (Vasotec), and nitroglycerin (Nitrostat or Nitrobid), CoQ10 supplementation allowed the individuals to take lower dosages of these drugs. This suggests that CoQ10 may enhance the effectiveness of certain blood pressure medications, but more research is needed to verify these results.

Blood-thinning medications -- There have been reports that CoQ10 may decrease the effectiveness of blood-thinning medications such as warfarin (Coumadin) or clopidigrel (Plavix), leading to the need for increased doses. Therefore, given that this medication must be monitored very closely for maintenance of appropriate levels and steady blood thinning, CoQ10 should be used with warfarin only under careful supervision by your health care provider.

Timolol -- CoQ10 supplementation may reduce the heart-related side effects of timolol drops (Betoptic), a beta-blocker medication used to treat glaucoma, without decreasing the effectiveness of the medication.

Other -- Medications that can lower the levels of CoQ10 in the body include statins for cholesterol , including atorvastatin (Lipitor), lovastatin (Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol, and simvastatin (Zocor), fibric acid derivatives for cholesterol, including gemfibrozil (Lopid), beta-blockers for high blood pressure, such as atenolol (Tenormin), labetolol (Normodyne), metoprolol (Lopressor or Toprol), and propranolol (Inderal), and tricyclic antidepressant medications, including amitriptyline (Elavil), doxepin (Sinequan), and imipramine (Tofranil).

Alternative Names:

CoQ10; Ubiquinone

Reviewed last on: 3/20/2009 D. Ehrlich, NMD, private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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