CoQ10 and High Blood Pressure Control: Does it Really Work?

CoQ10 and High Blood Pressure Control: Does it Really Work?
Page content

About CoQ10

CoQ10 is also referred to as Coenzyme Q10, vitamin Q10, and ubiquinone. Research on CoQ10 and high blood pressure is promising, but the use of CoQ10 for that reason is still considered to be controversial.

The body produces CoQ10 naturally and it is required for certain basic functioning of the cells. Studies show the levels of CoQ10 naturally decrease with age and when certain medical conditions are present, including cancer, Parkinson’s disease, HIV/AIDS and various heart conditions.

Levels may also be lowered by the use of certain prescription medications, though the use of CoQ10 with prescription medication should be evaluated by a physician due to possible negative interactions.

Dosages

The Mayo Clinic provides some information regarding dosage, based upon scientific research. The amount of CoQ10 in supplements may vary by brand.

Adults have been recommended a dosage that varies from 50 to 1,200 mg daily. Children should only be given CoQ10 under the direction and supervision of a physician. The physician can determine the appropriate and safe amount for the child.

Benefits

According to the Mayo Clinic, research done on CoQ10 and its affects on high blood pressure have shown a slight decrease in blood pressure levels. More research, of a long-term nature, is needed before these results can be considered conclusive.

Risks

An allergic reaction may occur to any supplement containing CoQ10. According to the Mayo Clinic, some cases of rashes and itching have been reported.

Patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia should use caution when using CoQ10 and should only do so under the supervision of a physician. This is because blood sugar levels may be lowered by CoQ10.

Side Effects

On its own, CoQ10 has not been proven to have any significant side effects, other than possible stomach upset. Some other side effects have been reported, but they have been very mild in nature. Those side effects include headache, nausea, insomnia, dizziness and irritability.

It has not been sufficiently tested during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so the use of it during those times should only be with a physician’s recommendation and supervision.

CoQ10 can interact with medications, so a physician or pharmacist should be consulted regarding adding CoQ10 to a daily regimen. Some of the known drugs it interacts negatively with include Timolol, daunorubicin, doxorubicin, and various blood-thinning and blood pressure medications. CoQ10 and high blood pressure may be a good mix, but perhaps not while also taking prescription high blood pressure medication.

References

Coenzyme Q10. Mayo Clinic. Last updated June 1, 2010. https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/coenzyme-q10/NS_patient-coenzymeq10

Coenzyme Q-10. Medline Plus. National Library of Medicine: National Institutes of Health. Last reviewed July 26, 2010. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/938.html

Coenzyme Q10. University of Maryland Medical Center. Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD. Last reviewed March 20, 2009. https://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/coenzyme-q10-000295.htm