Adjunct heart-failure trials used 100–300 mg/day for 6–24 months alongside standard care; not self-treatment
Reviewed · Published
Coenzyme Q10
A fat-soluble compound involved in mitochondrial electron transport and antioxidant activity.
Established functions
- A fat-soluble compound involved in mitochondrial electron transport and antioxidant activity.
Dietary sources
- meat
- fish
- soybeans
Claims and evidence
Claims that Coenzyme Q10 alone prevents or treats disease, or invariably improves health without deficiency, are unsupported.
Japanese reference amounts
- Japanese adults (age and sex as specified): No Japanese DRI established
Amounts studied
- Adjunct heart-failure trials used 100–300 mg/day for 6–24 months alongside standard care; not self-treatment
Tolerable upper limits
- No UL; studies mostly use up to 1,200 mg/day and long-term ceiling is unknown
Forms and bioavailability
Supplement forms: ubiquinone, ubiquinol
- A fatty meal improves absorption; ubiquinol may yield higher blood exposure.
Safety and interactions
Adverse effects
- stomach upset
- insomnia
- rash
Medicine and nutrient interactions
- warfarin, antihypertensives, chemotherapy
Contraindications and cautions
- Check with the treating clinician during cancer therapy or warfarin use.
Practical selection
- Compare Coenzyme Q10 amount per serving, form, allergens, and batch testing; prefer a single-ingredient product suited to the intended use.
Sources and review
- NCCIH Herbs at a Glance and supplement safety resourcesNational Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
Daiki Minaki (editorial and evidence review) ·
Frequently asked questions
How is Coenzyme Q10 different from its broader supplement category?
A fat-soluble compound involved in mitochondrial electron transport and antioxidant activity. Compare its named form and amount rather than assuming every category product supplies it.
View detailsWhat safety detail matters specifically for Coenzyme Q10?
warfarin, antihypertensives, chemotherapy Check with the treating clinician during cancer therapy or warfarin use.
View details