Co-Q10 plays a vital role in the production of energy within the body's cells. It also functions as a fat-soluble antioxidant. The most important application for Co-Q10, however, is in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease and related disorders that involve the heart, including atherosclerosis.(
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5) Studies have suggested that Co-Q10 can reduce the frequency of angina episodes, strengthen the heart muscle, and increase quality of life and survivability in those with congestive heart failure.(
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9) Coenzyme Q10 has also been shown to decrease blood pressure in patients with high blood pressure.(
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11) Pre-eclampsia is a medical condition where hypertension arises in pregnancy. A study found that pregnant women at high risk for pre-eclampsia when supplemented with Co-Q10 reduced the risk of developing pre-eclampsia by 10 percent.(
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Doctors have used Co-Q10 to treat breast cancer and support health in patients receiving chemotherapy.(13),(14) Of potential benefit to diabetics is the fact that Co-Q10 may enhance insulin production.(15) Co-Q10 has also been used with favorable results to treat symptoms of muscular dystrophy and gum disease, both of which are linked to Co-Q10 deficiency.(16),(17)
Laboratory studies indicate that patients with Parkinson's disease may benefit from Co-Q10 supplementation.(18),(19),(20),(21) In fact, a human study involving 80 patients with early Parkinson's disease, placed each in one of four groups; Co-Q10 300 milligrams per day (mg/d), Co-Q10 600 mg/d, Co-Q10 1,200 mg/d or in the placebo group. The researchers concluded that those receiving Co-Q10 developed less disability than those taking placebo.(22)
Obesity may also be linked to a deficiency of Co-Q10. Studies have suggested that supplementation can enhance weight loss(23) and it has been suggested that Co-Q10 could be beneficial in the treatment of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome.(24) Co-Q10 supplementation enhances exercise performance and endurance.(25) Results of a study found Co-Q10 reduced exercise-induced muscle injury in athletes.(26) In studies involving infertile men, Co-Q10 has been associated with an increase in sperm count,(27) improved sperm motility and improved rates of fertilization.(28) Also of important note is the fact that Co-Q10 may protect against the side effects of drugs such as beta-blockers and some antipsychotics. Ingestion of one or more drugs may interrupt the synthesis of coenzyme Q10.(29) CoQ10 deficiency may play a role in pediatric and adolescent migraine, therefore, supplementation may be helpful.(30)