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 oxidized formulation. CoQ10 has been found to be useful for a number of medical conditions including heart failure, chronic fatigue, and weakened immune system, among many other conditions. In cancer, CoQ10 may help protect the heart from cardiotoxic (damaging to the heart) chemotherapy such as adriomycin. CoQ10 may also be beneficial for cancer-related fatigue. It is an anti-oxidant 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 doses of 100 mg three times daily, CoQ10 has been shown to improve cancer-related fatigue in breast cancer patients. This is a reasonable dose to try with most types of cancer.

Warnings

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