The Health Benefits of CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 is a compound found naturally in every cell of your body. Sometimes referred to as CoQ10 or ubiquinone, it's also available in dietary supplement form.

Known to have antioxidant effects, coenzyme Q10 is essential for the proper functioning of your cells. One of its main functions is to aid in the production of energy within your cells. As you get older, your body's levels of coenzyme Q10 decrease.

Research suggests Coenzyme Q10 may help treat or prevent heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, migraines, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease.

Here's a look at some of the science behind the health effects of coenzyme Q10:

Heart Health

Coenzyme Q10 may benefit patients with certain cardiac diseases including atherosclerosis, heart failure, and coronary artery disease, according to a report published in Pharmacology & Therapeutics.

The report's authors note that coenzyme Q10 may treat cardiac ailments in a number of ways. For example, research suggests that coenzyme Q10 may reduce oxidative stress, as well as promote widening of the blood vessels, a key factor in blood pressure control.

In addition, coenzyme Q10 may be beneficial to cardiac cells, which have high energy requirements and are extremely sensitive to coenzyme Q10 deficiency.

Blood Pressure

A 2016 review published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, scientists sized up four previously published clinical trials (with a total of 96 participants) comparing the effects of coenzyme Q10 to those of placebo in the treatment of high blood pressure.

In their review, the report's authors found some evidence that coenzyme Q10 may provide blood-pressure–lowering effects. However, the reviewed studies were too unreliable to draw any firm conclusions as to coenzyme Q10's effectiveness in the long-term management of high blood pressure.

Neurodegenerative Disease

Coenzyme Q10 shows promise in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease, according to a research review published in Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment.

While few clinical trials have tested the effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation in people with Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease, some preliminary research indicates that the supplement may be helpful to such patients. For example, animal-based research has shown that coenzyme Q10 may inhibit the overproduction of beta-amyloid, a protein fragment that forms the brain plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Diabetes

Coenzyme Q10 may improve diabetic neuropathy and insulin sensitivity in people with diabetes. In a 2018 study, 50 people with diabetic neuropathy were given either 100 mg of CoQ10 a day or a placebo for 12 weeks. Patients taking CoQ10 had significant reductions in blood sugar, markers of oxidative stress, and insulin resistance compared to the control group.

Migraines

Guidelines from the American Academy of Neurology and the American Headache Society say that CoQ10 is possibly effective in preventing migraines, but this conclusion is based on limited evidence.

In one small study published in Neurology, 43 patients with migraines with and without auras received either 100mg of CoQ10 or a placebo pill three times daily for 3 months. Participants who took CoQ10 reported a 50 percent or more decrease in the number of migraine attacks at the end of the 3 months compared with people with took the placebo.

Statin Side Effects

Some research suggests Coenzyme Q10 may help reduce muscle pain and weakness as a side effect of statin use. However, the evidence is inconclusive.

In one small study, 50 patients taking statin medications were given 100 mg of CoQ10 or a placebo for 30 days. Three-quarters of the CoQ10 group reported a reduction in statin-related muscle pain.

No serious side effects of CoQ10 have been reported. Mild side effects, such as insomnia or upset stomach may occur.

Interactions

CoQ10 may interact with the anticoagulant warfarin and the diabetes drug insulin, and may not be compatible with certain cancer medications. Check with your doctor before taking CoQ10. No serious side effects of CoQ10 have been reported. Mild side effects such as insomnia or digestive upsets may occur. 

CoQ10 supplements are sold in a capsule, soft gel, and liquid. There is no recommended daily amount for CoQ10. The typical dose ranges from 90 mg to 200 mg daily, but depends on the condition. The following doses have been studied:

• Diabetes: 100 mg to 300 mg a day
• Heart Disease: 60 mg to 300 mg a day
• Migraine: 300 mg to 400 mg a day
• Statin Muscle Pain: 100 mg a day

When selecting a brand of supplements, look for products that have been certified by Consumer Labs, The U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention, or NSF International. According to a Consumer Labs review of CoQ10 and ubiquinol supplements on the mark, most brands contain what they claim. It's important to note, however, that some are formulated to enhance absorption, which will give the effect of a larger dose.

Can CoQ10 supplements fight aging?

Many anti-aging creams and serums tout the ingredient CoQ10 to help improve fine lines and wrinkles. There is evidence to suggest topical CoQ10 may help fight the visible signs of aging due to a reduction of free radicals and an increase in antioxidant capacity.

Will taking coenzyme Q10 supplements increase fertility?

Some evidence suggests CoQ10 may increase sperm motility and improve the quality of eggs, however, there is insufficient research to support its use as a fertility aid.

Does CoQ10 improve athletic performance?

A handful of small studies have shown CoQ10 may have some benefit for improving athletic performance, increasing power and stamina, and reducing recovery time. However, the research is limited.

A Word From Verywell 

More research is needed before coenzyme Q10 supplements can be recommended for the treatment or prevention of any health condition, including cardiovascular problems. If you're thinking of using coenzyme Q10 to treat a health problem, talk to your doctor before starting your supplement regimen.