Coenzyme Q10 Flashcards
What is the main role of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in the body?
It supports mitochondrial ATP production and acts as a powerful antioxidant.
What are the two forms of CoQ10 and how do they function?
Ubiquinone (oxidised) and ubiquinol (reduced); they interconvert and support energy production and antioxidant activity.
What factors reduce CoQ10 levels in the body?
Ageing, statins, smoking, and diseases like cardiovascular disease.
How much CoQ10 is typically lost when foods are fried?
Approximately 14%–32%.
What are good dietary sources of CoQ10?
Meats, fish, poultry, eggs, nuts, sesame seeds, olive oil, avocado, broccoli, and strawberries.
What is the average dietary intake of CoQ10 per day?
3 to 6 mg/day.
In which tissues is CoQ10 most concentrated and why?
Muscle tissues (especially cardiac and skeletal) due to their high energy demand.
What are CoQ10’s antioxidant functions?
Neutralises mitochondrial ROS, protects membranes from lipid peroxidation, and prevents mitochondrial dysfunction.
Name some therapeutic uses of CoQ10.
Fatigue, fibromyalgia, ageing, periodontal disease, male/female infertility, cardiovascular disease.
What is a typical CoQ10 dose for cardiovascular conditions?
60–300 mg/day.
How does CoQ10 help with male and female fertility?
It protects sperm and egg cells from oxidative stress and improves mitochondrial function.
How do statins affect CoQ10 levels?
They inhibit the mevalonate pathway, reducing CoQ10 production and increasing risk of side effects like myopathy and depression.
What is the recommended CoQ10 dosage to offset statin-related depletion?
90–300 mg/day.
Which form of CoQ10 supplement has the best bioavailability?
Solubilised forms, not crystalline; evidence on ubiquinol being superior is mixed.
What are the safety considerations for CoQ10 supplementation?
Safe up to 1200 mg/day; mild GI symptoms may occur and can be reduced by dividing doses; avoid use in pregnancy/lactation due to lack of data.
What drug interaction is important to consider with CoQ10?
CoQ10 may reduce the effectiveness of warfarin.
