Indications

It is indicated for Co-enzyme Q10 deficiency and mitochondrial disorders. It is also used in congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, high blood pressure (hypertension) in combination with other medications, preventing migraine headache, parkinson’s disease, improving the immune system, infertility in men and muscular dystrophy.

Therapeutic Class

Supplements & adjuvant therapy

Pharmacology

Co-enzyme Q10 is a vitamin-like substance found throughout the body especially in the heart, liver, kidney and pancreas. It is required for the proper function of many organs and chemical reactions in the body. It helps to provide energy to cells. It has antioxidant activity.

Dosage & Administration

For Co-enzyme Q10 deficiency: 150 mg daily.

For mitochondrial disorders: 150-160 mg, or 2 mg/kg/day.

For heart failure in adults: 100 mg per day divided into 2 or 3 doses.

For recent myocardial infarction: 120 mg daily in 2 divided doses.

For high blood pressure: 120-200 mg per day divided into 2 doses.

For isolated systolic hypertension: 60 mg twice daily.

For preventing migraine headache: 100 mg three times daily.

For Parkinson’s disease: 300 mg, 600 mg, 1200 mg and 2400 mg per day in 3-4 divided doses.

For infertility in men: 200-300 mg per day.

For muscular dystrophy: 100 mg per day.

Dividing the total daily dose by taking smaller amounts two or three times a day instead of a large amount all at once can help to reduce side effects.

Interaction

Antihypertensive drugs: May cause blood pressure to go too low.

Anticancer drugs: May decrease the effectiveness of some anticancer drugs.

Warfarin: May decrease the effectiveness of warfarin.

Contraindications

Co-enzyme Q10 is contraindicated in patients who have hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients. It is also contraindicated in patients scheduled for surgery in the next two weeks.

Side Effects

Co-enzyme Q10 is safe for most adults. It can cause some mild side effects including stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can cause allergic skin rashes in some people.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Co-enzyme Q10 should not be used in pregnancy and breast-feeding.

Precautions & Warnings

Co-enzyme Q10 may lower blood sugar levels, so caution should be taken in patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia. Co-enzyme Q10 may decrease blood pressure so caution is advised in patients with low blood pressure or taking blood pressure medications.

Storage Conditions

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.