In a study published in the American Journal of Cardiology, researchers indicate that using CoQ10 supplements seemed to decrease the muscle breakdown, pain, and discomfort of people taking statins. Effects of coenzyme Q10 on statin-induced myopathy: An updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Plasma levels of CoQ10 are lowered in the course of statin treatment. Toth S, Sajty M, Pekarova T, et al. Some studies show a benefit, while other studies show no effect. Your doctor might also decrease the dose of your statin, try a different statin or switch you to a different type of cholesterol-lowering medication entirely. Ubiquinol is the only form of CoQ10 that exists as an antioxidant. However, it’s a bit of a double-edged sword. Cholesterol: Top foods to improve your numbers, Cholesterol-lowering supplements may be helpful. Along with these effects, statins also lower your body’s levels of coenzyme Q10. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Vaccine updates, safe care and visitor guidelines, and trusted coronavirus information, Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development, Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education. To play it safe, it may be best to take statins at least a couple of hours before consuming a green tea supplement or beverage. In one small study, 50 patients taking statin medications were given 100 mg of CoQ10 or a placebo for 30 days. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. It occurs when muscle cells break down. Understanding the Cholesterol Ratio: What It Is and Why It’s Important. MYTH 4 You can't eat grapefruit if you take a statin. After a flood, are food and medicines safe to use? Plus, no obvious differences were found between the lengths of therapies. All rights reserved. Journal of the American Heart Association. CoQ10 has also been studied as a preventive treatment for migraine headaches, though it may take several months to work. Statin-associated muscle disease: Advances in diagnosis and management. © 1998-2021 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). This content does not have an Arabic version. Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on July 29, 2020. Although statins are very effective, they’re not for everybody. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com. A review published in Circulation: Heart Failure suggests that patients with heart failure who took CoQ10 supplements experienced fewer symptoms and complications than those who took a placebo. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that’s needed to build cells. Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization and proceeds from Web advertising help support our mission. If you’re taking statins and have unpleasant side effects, discuss CoQ10 supplements with your doctor. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Many studies review the connection between CoQ10 supplement use and heart health. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Accessed Oct. 10, 2019. Although statins reduce cholesterol production, they also lower CoQ10 levels. Because coenzyme Q10 plays a role in muscle cell energy production, some researchers have proposed that taking a coenzyme Q10 supplement might reduce the risk of muscle-related side effects. Some research suggests coenzyme Q10 may help reduce muscle pain and weakness as a side effect of statin use. Taking steps to lower your cholesterol levels, especially your LDL and total cholesterol, helps keep your arteries from becoming blocked and causing a heart attack. Taking a statin to lower "bad" LDL cholesterol also lowers CoQ10, a naturally occurring chemical in the body involved in energy production in cells. I cite this study to support my thoughts concerning CoQ10 supplementation by those currently taking or proposing to take statin drugs of any kind. Because coenzyme Q10 plays a role in muscle cell energy production, some researchers have proposed that taking a coenzyme Q10 supplement might reduce the risk of muscle-related side effects. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. At this time, coenzyme Q10 isn't universally recommended for preventing side effects from cholesterol-lowering drugs known as statins. So, what exactly is the connection between COQ10 and statins? Too Much ‘Good Cholesterol’ Can Be a Bad Thing. Arcus senilis: A sign of high cholesterol? Learn what your numbers mean and how to use them to tailor your…. It isn’t known if disease causes the deficiency or if the deficiency appears first, causing cells to age faster and making disease more likely. The new study also compared the effects of different types of statins on CoQ10, and these results are surprising. Mayo Clinic offers appointments in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota and at Mayo Clinic Health System locations. Accessed Oct. 9, 2019. CoQ10 supplementation may also function as a natural aid in lowering cholesterol and improving heart health. Coenzyme Q10 is a vital nutrient for energy production in cells, especially muscle and heart cells, and coenzyme Q10 deficiency may account for some of the muscle-related … The power of a plant-based diet for heart health. Although green tea can help lower cholesterol, it can also decrease absorption of some, but not all, statin drugs. However, your body produces less and less CoQ10 as you get older. Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, Both Red and White Meat Raise Cholesterol Levels, Study Finds. Keep reading to learn…, New research suggests that white meat can have a similar effect on blood cholesterol levels as red meat. Although statins are well tolerated by most people, they can cause muscle and joint aches. As muscles collapse, a certain protein is released into the bloodstream. In the present meta‐analysis, 6 newly published RCT studies were included, and the effect of CoQ10 supplementation on statin‐induced myopathy in 12 RCTs with 575 patients was comprehensively evaluated. We explain just how much cholesterol you should have each day and where fats fit in. This systematic review and meta-analysis was aimed to determine the effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on lipid profile, as one of the major triggers for CAD, among patients diagnosed with coronary artery disease. Can coenzyme Q10 prevent statin side effects? While it was once thought that CoQ10 could improve blood pressure, a recent review published in the Cochrane Library suggests that CoQ10 does not decrease blood pressure any more than placebo does. Taking it may be a good option for you, especially if you’re in good health. Preliminary studies have shown that CoQ10 may slow, but not stop, the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Hypothyroidism symptoms: Can hypothyroidism cause eye problems? In a study published in the American Journal of Cardiology, researchers indicate that using CoQ10 supplements seemed to decrease the muscle breakdown, pain, and discomfort of people taking statins. CoQ10 also functions as a powerful antioxidant to help fight free radicals that can damage cells and DNA. However, a recent study in Atherosclerosis suggests that CoQ10 does not improve muscle pain in people taking statins. Additional research is needed to confirm this effect. Although CoQ10 supplements seems to show much promise for heart health, their effectiveness for improving muscle pain from statins is unclear. Statins are a group of medications that are used to lower high blood levels … Cholesterol medications: Consider the options. The best sources of CoQ10 are oily fish and organ meats, such as beef liver. This study adds to the growing body of…. Statins can cause side effects such as: Some people experience more serious problems, including a condition known as rhabdomyolysis. Statin Users, CoQ10 is Your New Best Friend Following your doctor prescribed cholesterol lowering regimen that may include eating healthy, exercising regularly, and taking cholesterol medication such as statins can help keep your cholesterol in check. It can also be found in whole grains. CoQ10 and Statins Statin drugs (Lipitor®, Zocor®, Pravachol®, Crestor®, and the like) are prescribed to lower a person's cholesterol level. Although findings are mixed, CoQ10 might help reduce blood pressure. Uses; Warnings; Before taking ; Dosage; Overdose; What to avoid; Side effects; Interactions; What is ubiquinone? Neurotherapeutics. Treatment with statins has been associated with reduced plasma CoQ10 levels, and it has been hypothesised that supplementation with CoQ10 may assist with management of statin … All rights reserved. While Ubiquinol can serve similar … Heart conditions. On the other hand, CoQ10 and fish oil may offer particular benefits to people on statin drugs. Book: Mayo Clinic Healthy Heart for Life! Because coenzyme Q10 doesn't cause side effects for most people, your doctor might suggest a trial of it to see if it helps. However, regular CoQ10 is fat-soluble, so it is best absorbed with foods that contain fats. Our general interest e-newsletter keeps you up to date on a wide variety of health topics. New drugs used alongside statins can lower LDL cholesterol to really low levels, but do the risks outweigh the benefits? Every cell in the body needs coenzyme Q10 to help generate energy. They do this by inhibiting the body's internal production of cholesterol (they do not affect the cholesterol that you eat). Your doctor might need to change your statin dosage if you also take CoQ10 supplements. Grapefruit does contain compounds that alter … CoQ10 … However, the evidence is inconclusive. Rosenson RS, et al. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Statins block the enzyme responsible for cholesterol production (HMG CoA reductase) whereas magnesium speeds up or slows down the activity of that enzyme to create the right amount of cholesterol in the body. Brand Name: Co Q-10, Coenzyme Q10, CoQ10, Co-Q10, elppa CoQ10, LiQ-10, LiQsorb, Q-Sorb Co Q-10, QuinZyme. In turn, this can cause severe kidney problems. Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) are two types…, HDL is like a vacuum cleaner for cholesterol in the body, as it removes extra cholesterol and plaque buildup in your arteries. As the levels drop, the side effects of statins increase. How Much Cholesterol Should I Be Having Each Day to Be Healthy? Ubiquinone is … Cholesterol test kits: Are they accurate? Some research also suggests that when combined with other nutrients, CoQ10 might aid recovery in people who've had bypass and heart valve surgeries. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. While there aren’t enough studies to confirm how well it works to do this, it may be possible to combine CoQ10 with statins for better results. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): In depth. Statin muscle-related adverse events. The combination of CoQ10 and ET resulted in higher plasma CoQ10 levels and more pronounced effects on all the above-mentioned parameters. Niacin to boost your HDL, 'good,' cholesterol, Nuts and your heart: Eating nuts for heart health. Cholesterol ratio can give you additional information about your heart disease risk. © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Most importantly, studies which evaluate the effect of CoQ10 in improving adherence to statins are currently lacking which is why NICE do not recommend its use. FREE book offer – Mayo Clinic Health Letter, New Year Special -  40% off – Mayo Clinic Diet Online, Can coenzyme Q10 prevent statin side effects, Advertising and sponsorship opportunities. Research on CoQ10 use for specific conditions and activities shows: 1. CoQ10 can be taken at the same time as statin medication. Reduced CoQ10 levels can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, which can cause muscle pain, or myopathy. Although your body produces its own CoQ10, you can also get it from certain foods. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Statins have been found to reduce the amount of naturally occurring coenzyme Q10 in the body. Coenzyme Q-10. Qu H, et al. Accessed Oct. 9, 2019. Last medically reviewed on October 10, 2016. Hypothyroidism: Can calcium supplements interfere with treatment? 2018; doi:10.1161/JAHA.118.009835. Methods: EMBASE, Scopus, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched for studies prior to May 20th, 2018. CoQ10 can also lower blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes need to monitor their blood sugar levels more closely while taking it or avoid the supplement altogether. Likewise, both low-middle intensity and high intensity statin therapy has similar effects. Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic. Nov. 2, 2019. High cholesterol treatment: Does cinnamon lower cholesterol? Statin Medication Use. If you're on any cholesterol-lowering statin medications such as atorvastatin (Lipitor), fluvastatin (Lescol), lovastatin (Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol), rosuvastatin (Crestor), and simvastatin (Zocor) we urge you to speak with you're physician immediately to see if supplementation of COQ10 is advisable. Co-enzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant produced by the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway. Natural Medicines. Muscle aches are a common side effect of statins, and CoQ10 is important for muscle function, so scientists have wondered if raising blood levels of CoQ10 might relieve the aches. Researchers say an extremely high level of HDL cholesterol can put a person at higher risk of death than someone with normal ‘good’ cholesterol. However, not all research is positive. Pomegranate juice: Can it lower cholesterol? J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol. Statins also block CoQ10 production because … Can You Lower Your ‘Bad’ Cholesterol Too Much? People with certain conditions, including diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and heart problems, tend to have low levels of CoQ10. Cholesterol ratio or non-HDL cholesterol: Which is most important? Plus, statins inhibit cholesterol production by reducing a compound (mevalonate) that is not only a precursor of cholesterol, but of CoQ10 as well. Mayo Clinic does not endorse any of the third party products and services advertised. CoQ10 has been shown to improve symptoms of congestive heart failure. When you take a statin medication to lower your cholesterol, it may lower the amount of coenzyme Q10 in your cells and in your bloodstream, too. However, a recent study in Atherosclerosis suggests that CoQ10 does not improve muscle pain in people taking statins. Addition of omega-3 fatty acid and coenzyme Q10 to statin therapy in patients with combine dyslipidemia. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. CoQ10 supplementation may also function as a natural aid in lowering cholesterol and improving heart health. Statins have been found to reduce the amount of naturally occurring coenzyme Q10 in the body. The moment one takes a statin, the availability of CoQ10 for anti-oxidation is compromised allowing excess oxidative damage to our mitochondrial DNA. Coenzyme Q10 supplements have few reported side effects. Mayo Clinic. This is an immediate and, it seems, irreversible process. The researchers found both hydrophilic and lipophilic statins lowered blood CoQ10 levels in a similar manner. 2018; doi:10.1007/s13311-018-0670-z. Make sure you consult your doctor before taking CoQ10. Wilson's syndrome: An accepted medical diagnosis? Fasting diet: Can it improve my heart health? More information is needed about the cause of statin-induced myopathy including about how exogenous CoQ10 affects endogenous tissue levels and whether restoring these levels results in a clinical reduction of muscle symptoms. Though still controversial, some preliminary evidence suggests that CoQ10 may help to prevent or treat the adverse effects, such as muscle pains and liver problems, of taking statin-type cholesterol drugs. This could be related to the fact that statins lower plasma LDL levels, and CoQ10 is mainly transported by LDL, but a decrease is also found in platelets and in lymphocytes of statin treated patients, therefore it could truly depend on inhibition of CoQ10 synthesis. Taking CoQ10 supplements can help increase your CoQ10 levels and may reduce statin side effects. A man-made form of CoQ10 is available as a supplement in most pharmacies and health food stores. This content does not have an English version. From that time on, it appears that even a great excess of supplemental CoQ10 cannot reverse the damage. Parkinson's disease. 2. Coenzyme Q10 is a substance the body makes naturally. https://nccih.nih.gov/health/coq10. Having high cholesterol increases your risk for the number one cause of death in the United States -- heart disease. In the meta‐analysis performed by Banach et al,16only 6 studies with 302 patients were included, and no beneficial effect of CoQ10 supplementation on statin‐induced myopathy was documented, which might be attributed to the limited number of enrolled studies and their small sample sizes. COQ10 Dosage. While there arent enough studies to confirm how well it works to do this, it may … Is there a risk of rhabdomyolysis from statins? CoQ10 supplements can interact with some medications, including beta-blockers, some antidepressants, and chemotherapy drugs. It was also be… Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a substance that the human body makes naturally. HDL cholesterol: How to boost your 'good' cholesterol, Healthy heart for life: Avoiding heart disease. 2 While your body has the ability to make CoQ10, it declines as we age. In contrast t… Taylor BA, et al. CoQ10 appears to be safe and well-tolerated. Statins are a class of prescription drugs designed to lower high cholesterol. Lopez-Jimenez F (expert opinion). Cells use it to generate energy. Another review, published in Atherosclerosis, suggests that CoQ10 might improve the health of blood vessels in people with or without heart disease. Written by Cerner Multum. Study results of the benefits of CoQ10 for reducing muscle pain associated with statin use are conflicting, however. Scientific studies to determine the effectiveness of coenzyme Q10 in reducing statin-related muscle pain have had mixed results. Cholesterol is an important topic for heart health. Ubiquinone is a vitamin-like substance that is made naturally in the body. The most common seems to be stomach upset. 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