Mitoquinone
Scientific Name: Coenzyme Q-10
Other Names: Co Q 10, Q 10, Ubidecarenone, Ubiquinone, Vitamin Q
Should I take it?
Coenzyme Q-10 is a natural body chemical that was identified in the late 1950s. Small amounts of it are obtained from eating meat and seafood, but the majority of the body's supply is made within the body. Although nearly all body cells make it, coenzyme Q-10 concentrates in the muscles and in the heart, kidneys, liver, and pancreas. About half of the body's stores of coenzyme Q-10 are found in the mitochondria of the cells. Mitochondria are parts of body cells that convert dietary carbohydrates into energy. While coenzyme Q-10 is involved in strengthening body membranes, its main function is to carry electrons that are needed in the energy generation process. Various types of coenzyme Q are found in most living organisms, including bacteria, but only humans produce coenzyme Q-10 naturally. Commercial coenzyme Q-10 supplements are made by a fermentation process that includes beets, sugar cane, and specific yeasts.
Normal production of coenzyme Q-10 by humans is highest at about 20 years of age and then it declines gradually. Deficiencies of coenzyme Q-10 are rare, but they result in serious symptoms that include fatigue, muscle weakness, and seizures. Smoking cigarettes reduces the amounts of coenzyme Q-10 in the body, and taking certain drugs such as doxorubicin, some beta-blockers, or certain statins (a group of drugs that reduce cholesterol levels) may also lower coenzyme Q-10 levels. Low levels of coenzyme Q-10 are associated with conditions ranging from AIDS and some cancers to periodontal (gum) disease. Generally, the extent of coenzyme Q-10 deficiency seems to correlate to the severity of the condition. That is, conditions affected by coenzyme Q-10 levels seem to worsen as coenzyme Q-10 decreases.
Supplemental coenzyme Q-10 is used extensively in Japan, and its use is more common in Europe and western Asia than it is in the United States. Athletes sometimes take supplemental coenzyme Q-10 in the belief that it may increase their ability to perform extended exercise, but study evidence has failed to support this belief.
Dosage and Administration
Coenzyme Q-10 supplements are available in a number of oral dosage forms, including capsules and tablets made from dried, powdered coenzyme Q-10. However, only a small percentage of oral coenzyme Q-10 supplements are thought to be absorbed from the intestines, with large percentages eliminated in the bile. Because coenzyme Q-10 dissolves in fats, soft gelatin capsules that contain coenzyme Q-10 in soybean oil may be absorbed by the body more easily and more completely than dried, powdered forms of coenzyme Q-10. Taking coenzyme Q-10 with a meal that includes fats may also increase its absorption. For topical application, usually a soft gelatin capsule of coenzyme Q-10 is opened and the contents applied to the gums with a cotton swab.
Oral dosage recommendations for coenzyme Q-10 supplementation range from 100 mg (0.1 gram) per day to 3,000 mg (3 grams) per day or more, depending on the condition being treated. One particular chewable form showed no increase in effectiveness when doses over 2400 mg (2.4 grams) per day were taken, however. For HF, a common oral dose is 100 mg per day, taken as two or three doses. Individuals who decide to take coenzyme Q-10 should follow the directions on the package that is purchased.
Summary
Coenzyme Q-10 is a natural body chemical that is essential for the production of energy by cells. Low levels of it have been associated with a number of diseases. Coenzyme Q-10 supplementation is used to treat genetic coenzyme Q-10 deficiencies, heart conditions, and periodontal disease. It may be useful in delaying the progression of Parkinson's disease and other conditions that affect muscle function. Its antioxidant and immune-stimulating effects may give it anti-AIDS, anticancer, and liver-protecting properties.
Risks
Blood sugar levels may be lowered by taking coenzyme Q-10, so individuals with diabetes may want to avoid it. Not enough is known about its possible effects to recommend coenzyme Q-10 supplementation for pregnant or breast-feeding women.
Side Effects
Mild occasional gastrointestinal disturbances are the only side effects that have been reported from taking coenzyme Q-10.
Interactions
The risk of low blood sugar may increase if coenzyme Q-10 is taken with drugs or herbals that treat diabetes. Coenzyme Q-10 may increase the effects of drugs that lower blood pressure. Because it may increase amounts of dopamine in the body, coenzyme Q-10 may increase the effectiveness of drugs that raise dopamine levels. Doxorubicin, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), propranolol, and some statins may decrease body levels of coenzyme Q-10.
Last Revised April 11, 2008
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Should I take it? 
