Products
Coenzyme Q10 is commercially available as a dietary supplement in the form of capsules and drops, among other products. It is also found in cosmetics. As a drug, Q10 has not yet been registered in many countries. The short-chain analogue idebenone is approved as a drug.
Structure and properties
Coenzyme Q10 (C59H90O4, Mr = 863.3 g/mol) exists as a yellow-orange powder that is insoluble in water. It is a lipophilic 1,4-benzoquinone derivative with a long isoprenoid side chain. Coenzyme Q10 is absorbed through food, but is also produced in the body. Commercially available Q10 is usually obtained from yeast.
Effects
Coenzyme Q10 is found in the blood, cell membranes, and lipoproteins, among other places, and is localized to the inner membrane of mitochondria. It plays an important role in cellular energy supply and energy metabolism. Coenzyme Q10 is involved in electron transfer in the respiratory chain and the formation of ATP. It additionally has antioxidant properties and protects membranes from oxidation.
Areas of application
- As a dietary supplement.
- Its use in various diseases has been studied, for example, cardiovascular diseases (e.g., heart failure), muscular diseases, cancers and neurodegenerative diseases.
- Coenzyme Q10 deficiency (rare).
- Treatment with statins (controversial).
- In cosmetics, for example, as an anti-wrinkle agent.
Dosage
According to the package leaflet. Taking with food improves absorption.
Contraindications
Coenzyme Q10 is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity. Refer to the package insert for complete precautions.
Interactions
Statins may reduce the concentration of coenzyme Q10. Drug-drug interactions have been described with vitamin K antagonists.
Adverse effects
Adverse effects are rare according to the literature. Possible adverse effects include gastrointestinal discomfort.
