Coq10

Coenzyme Q-10, also known as CoQ10, Vitamin Q, and Q 10, is a naturally occurring coenzyme that is used in the body. Coenzyme Q-10 transfers electrons and is an antioxidant. Although it is made naturally in the body, certain diseases or conditions are linked with lower-than-normal levels of CoQ10. Because of this, CoQ10 is available in supplement form, in capsules, tablets, and gel capsules. Because it is a naturally occurring coenzyme, it has no major side effects, but it can interact with other drugs.

Uses of Coenzyme Q-10

There are many benefits ascribed to Coenzyme Q-10, although few have been conclusively proven. CoQ10 is said to alleviate various ailments and increase the body's immune system's ability to fight disease. CoQ10 may be useful in the treatment of the following diseases:

• Muscular dystrophy


• AIDS


• Hypertension


• Mitochondrial


• Mitochondrial encephalomyopathies


• Congestive heart failure


• Parkinson's disease


• Cancer


• Angina


• High blood pressure


• Cardiomyopoathy

However, none of these claims have been conclusively proven—or disproved. Because CoQ10 is considered an herbal supplement, it hasn't undergone much study from the FDA.

Problems with CoQ10

Because CoQ10 can lower blood sugar levels, it should not be used in conjunction with medications that lower blood sugar. It can also interfere with or exaggerate the effects of other medications; it is important to consult a doctor before taking CoQ10, especially if you are on any type of medication. The effects of CoQ10 on infants and children have not been studied, and so it should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women, nor should it be given to children.

Taking Precautions with CoQ10

As with any herbal supplement, it is important to make certain that the vendor is reliable. The effects of taking too high a dose have not been studied. Additionally, if you are taking CoQ10, you will want to make sure that it is a high-quality product, and not contaminated with anything else.

Taking CoQ10

Although none of the positive effects of CoQ10 have been conclusively proven, it also does not appear to have any real side effects. Therefore, in people with certain conditions, and where CoQ10 will not interact with medications, there is no real harm in adding the supplement (under a doctor's care and observation) to treatment to see if it helps. Even if CoQ10 has only mild positive effects, it can be beneficial to the person taking it.

By Kiersten Brazier