Benefits of Co-enzyme Q10 – A Review

Author(s)

Mahto, S. J. K., Ansari, A. F. A., Singh, P. P., Singh, U. R., Chatur, V.

Author's Affiliation

Abstract

Coenzyme Q10 is a vitamin-like substance used in the treatment of a variety of disorders primarily related to sub-optimal cellular energy metabolism and oxidative injury. CoQ10 is an antioxidant that is made in the human body. It is an essential cofactor of the electron transport chain as well as a potent free radical scavenger in lipid and mitochondrial membranes. Its levels decrease with age and may be low in people with cancer, certain genetic disorders, diabetes, heart conditions, HIV/AIDS, muscular dystrophies, and Parkinson's disease. Studies supporting the efficacy of CoQ10 appear most promising for neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and certain encephalomyopathies for which CoQ10 has gained orphan drug status. CoQ10 in the body can be increased by taking CoQ10 supplements. There is evidence that idebenone, a man-made compound similar to CoQ10, may help treat Alzheimer's disease. However, evidence is lacking to support the use of itself for this condition. Promising uses of CoQ10 include eye disease; chest pain caused by exercise, asthma, chronic fatigue, and high cholesterol, as well as the treatment of chemotherapy side effects in children. Evidence is conflicting for the use of CoQ10 in heart muscle problems and exercise performance. There is some negative evidence for the use of CoQ10 in the treatment of diabetes, hepatitis C, and Huntington's disease. These results show that oral administration of CoQ10 increases both brain and brain mitochondrial concentrations. CoQ10 appears to be a safe supplement with minimal side effects and low drug interaction potential.

Keywords

CoQ10, Vitamin Q10, Ubiquinone, Ubisemiquinone, Ubiquinol, Antioxidant & Cofactor

Cite This Article

Mahto, S. J. K., Ansari, A. F. A., Singh, P. P., Singh, U. R., & Chatur, V. (2015). Benefits of Co-enzyme Q10 - A Review. International Journal for Pharmaceutical Research Scholars (IJPRS), 3(4), 292-300.