Cholesterol-lowering medications can deplete your body of this vital nutrient.

If you are one of the millions of people taking a statin drug, there’s some important information you should know: statins are known to reduce levels of CoEnzyme Q-10 (CoQ-10), a nutrient that helps fuel your entire body.

CoEnzyme Q-10 is a fat-soluble, vitamin-like substance found throughout the body, with the highest concentrations in the heart, liver, kidneys, and pancreas. At its most basic level, CoQ-10 keeps you healthy, active, and alive. It is essential for mitochondrial ATP synthesis and functions as an antioxidant.

As you age, tissue levels of CoQ-10 naturally decline. This decline is further exacerbated by the use of certain medications, including cholesterol-lowering statins. Without enough of this energy-producing coenzyme, your body may struggle to balance electrons, produce energy, and fight off free radicals.

Can CoEnzymeQ-10 Offset Statin Side Effects?

One of the most common side effects of statins is muscle pain and cramping — known as myalgias or muscle-related symptoms. This pain may manifest as mild soreness, weakness, or fatigue in your muscles.

Studies have shown that up to 29% of people who start taking statins report muscle pain and consider discontinuing treatment. Muscle soreness or weakness can seriously affect your mobility, stability, and overall quality of life.

A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that “Coenzyme Q10 supplementation may decrease muscle pain associated with statin treatment. Thus, CoQ10 supplementation may offer an alternative to stopping treatment with these vital drugs.”

It Makes Sense to Supplement with CoEnzyme Q-10

CoQ-10 nourishes your heart and brain and provides energy to your entire body. It also offers powerful antioxidant protection. If you are taking a statin drug or are over 50 years old, supplementing with CoQ-10 makes sense.

Talk to your healthcare provider to determine whether CoEnzyme Q-10 supplementation is right for you. Your continued quality of life may depend on it.

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References:

1. http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/coenzyme-Q10
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17560286
3. https://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/the-role-of-coenzyme-q10-supplementation-with-statin-drug-use-and-chronicdiseases-2329-8731-1000157.php?aid=86554
4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/statin-side-effects/art-20046013
5. https://www.ajconline.org/article/S0002-9149(07)00255-X/fulltext