You've probably seen it in pharmacies, or heard someone mention it, about a supplement called Coenzyme Q10. It's often touted as good for heart health, high blood pressure, and migraines. So what exactly is Coenzyme Q10? Is it a drug? Is it safe to use? Let's talk about it all in detail today.
What is Coenzyme Q10?
Simply put, Coenzyme Q10 (also known as CoQ10) is a naturally occurring substance in almost every cell in our body. Specifically, it is an important compound that helps our cells produce energy and acts as a protector of cells.
It also acts as an antioxidant . That is, one of its main duties is to protect our cells from harmful particles that can damage them, which are formed due to various processes that occur in our body and things that accumulate in the environment.
As we age and with certain medical conditions, our body's naturally occurring CoQ10 levels can decrease. That's when some people take it as a dietary supplement.
However, the most important thing here is that CoQ10 is not a drug approved to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is only considered a dietary supplement.
Things to tell your doctor before using this
If you're considering starting this supplement, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor about it, as it's not a one-size-fits-all approach. In particular, your doctor should be clear about the following:
- If you have allergies to Coenzyme Q10, other herbs, medications, foods, food colorings, or preservatives.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Giving this kind of information to the doctor is very important for your safety.
How to use Coenzyme Q10 correctly?
This usually comes in capsule or tablet form. Keep these things in mind when using it.
- Drink this with a glass of water.
- Follow the instructions on the medicine package or use it exactly as your doctor has instructed.
- Important tip: This supplement is best absorbed by the body when taken with a fatty meal . For example, it is best to take it with butter, cheese, nuts, avocado, or oily fish (such as salmon or mackerel).
- Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
What to do if you accidentally drink too much? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken more than you think, don't panic. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What if I miss a dose?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Can there be problems with other medications? (Interactions)
Yes, CoQ10 can interact with some medications, so it's important to be aware of this as well.
- Warfarin: CoQ10 can interact with drugs such as Warfarin, which is used to prevent blood clotting, and affect the effectiveness of that drug.
- High blood pressure medications: Taking CoQ10 with some medications for high blood pressure can cause your blood pressure to drop too low.
So, give your doctor a complete list of all the medications, herbal products, vitamins, and supplements you take. Then he or she can decide if this supplement is safe for you to use.
What are the possible side effects?
Most people do not experience any major side effects from CoQ10. However, some people may experience minor or sometimes serious side effects. It is important to be aware of this.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Symptoms that require immediate referral to your doctor or Emergency Department (ETU) | |
| Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms to report to your doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| Digestive system problems | Stomach ache, nausea, bloating, heartburn, diarrhea. |
| Other | Difficulty sleeping, headache. |
Be careful when choosing a supplement.
In Sri Lanka, dietary supplements like this are not subject to strict quality control or regulation like the medicines we take for illness. This means that their purity and quality can vary.
So, if you're buying a CoQ10 supplement, keep these things in mind:
- Buy from a trusted brand or company.
- Buy from a reputable pharmacy or trusted source.
- Read the label carefully and be aware of its contents and dosage.
- Don't assume that just because something is "natural" it is 100% safe.
If your symptoms do not improve or get worse, see your doctor immediately.
Take-Home Message
- Coenzyme Q10 is not a medicine , it is only a dietary supplement. It is not approved to treat any disease.
- Be sure to talk to your doctor before using any of these supplements.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and allergies you are taking.
- For best results, take CoQ10 with a fatty meal.
- If you experience allergic symptoms such as skin rash and swelling, seek medical advice immediately.
- Always choose supplements made by a trusted, reputable company.
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