Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is a compound that occurs naturally within the human body. It is most abundant in organs with high energy needs, such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and pancreas. In the United States, CoQ10 is available as a dietary supplement. Due to its essential role in bodily functions and the fact that individuals with certain medical conditions often show lower levels of CoQ10, scientists have explored whether supplementing it could provide health benefits.

Bottom Line

• To date, there is no solid evidence that CoQ10 is effective in treating cancer. However, it might help lower the risk of heart complications linked to certain chemotherapy treatments.

• Research on whether CoQ10 might prevent heart disease is limited, and results remain unclear. Studies on its role in managing heart failure have also been inconclusive. On the other hand, there is some data indicating that it could help prevent specific surgical heart complications.

• While findings from various studies differ, overall scientific reviews suggest that CoQ10 likely does not alleviate muscle soreness caused by statins, which are cholesterol-reducing medications.

• Currently, the small body of available research indicates that CoQ10 is unlikely to have a significant impact on blood pressure levels.

• A major research project funded by the National Institutes of Health found that even large doses of CoQ10 did not improve symptoms in people with early-stage Parkinson’s disease. A 2017 analysis of this and other smaller studies concluded there is no benefit for Parkinson’s symptoms.

• CoQ10 has also been studied for its possible effects on conditions such as ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease), Down syndrome, Huntington’s disease, and male infertility. However, the existing research is too minimal to draw any concrete conclusions.

Safety

• CoQ10 is generally considered safe, with no major side effects reported. Some users may experience minor issues such as trouble sleeping or digestive discomfort.

• This supplement may interact with certain medications, including the blood thinner warfarin and insulin prescribed for diabetes. It might also interfere with particular cancer treatments.

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