Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an essential component of proper cellular function and metabolism. In supplement form, it is sometimes referred to as ubiquinol, which is the reduced form of CoQ10. CoQ10 has been found to be useful for several medical conditions including heart failure, chronic fatigue, and weakened immune system, among many other conditions. In cancer, CoQ10 may help protect the heart from damage that can be caused by some chemotherapy drugs such as Adriamycin. CoQ10 may also be beneficial for cancer-related fatigue. It is an antioxidant and may also have some anti-cancer properties. People with very low levels of CoQ10 may be predisposed to certain types of cancer.

Dose

At a dose of 100 mg three times daily, CoQ10 has been shown to improve cancer-related fatigue in breast cancer patients. When supplementing with CoQ10, 100-300 mg daily is considered to be the most effective dosage range.

Warnings

Coenzyme Q10 is generally considered to be safe and well-tolerated. Rarely, it can result in gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort. CoQ10 can decrease blood pressure so for patients taking blood pressure medications, careful monitoring is advised.