WHAT IS IT?

CoEnzyme Q₁₀, or ubiquinone, is an antioxidant produced by the body and consumed in the diet (e.g., fish, organ meats, whole grains). It is necessary for the basic functioning of cells and vital to a range of activities involved in energy metabolism. The heart, liver, kidney and pancreas have the highest concentrations of CoQ₁₀ in the body.

WHO MIGHT CONSIDER TAKING THIS?

Your health care provider may recommend CoQ₁₀ supplements if you are at high risk or have any of the following:

• High blood pressure
• Congestive heart failure
• Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Migraine headaches
• Autoimmune disease
• Statin-induced muscle pains

PREPARATIONS AND DOSAGE

Ubiquinone is typically supplemented in soft gels or chewable wafers. The body must convert ubiquinone into ubiquinol, the reduced form of CoQ₁₀. This conversion may be compromised in some individuals, so ubiquinol is also available as a capsule or softgel supplement. While more bioavailable, ubiquinol tends to be more expensive.

DOSE: CoQ₁₀ dosing starts at 100mg once daily with dosages up to 400mg once daily being generally regarded as safe. CoQ₁₀ should be taken with food as it is fat soluble.

CONCERNS?

CoQ₁₀ is generally well tolerated. There is a possible interaction between CoQ₁₀ and the blood thinner warfarin (coumadin) that can increase risk of bleeding.

• Do not start CoQ₁₀ without talking to your doctor if you are on warfarin.
• Do not take in pregnancy or while breastfeeding.