The CoQ-10 and Statin Connection

Cholesterol-lowering medications can deplete your body of this vital nutrient If you are like 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. CoEnzyme Q-10 is required for mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis and functions as an antioxidant. Most of the cellular functions performed by your body are dependent on adequate ATP, the form of energy used by cells.¹ As you age, tissue levels of CoEnzyme Q-10 decline, this is exacerbated by the use of certain medications including cholesterol-lowering statins.² Without enough of this energy-producing coenzyme, your body systems may struggle to perform its role of balancing electrons, producing energy and fighting off free radicals.³

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. The pain may be a mild soreness, weakness or tiredness in your muscles. Studies have shown that up to 29% of people that start taking statins report muscle pain and consider discontinuing treatment with the drug.⁴ Muscle soreness or weakness can seriously affect your mobility, stability and overall quality of life. CoQ10 can help alleviate muscle pain and joint pain brought on by statin use, according to a study published in the American Journal of Cardiology. The study found, “Coenzyme Q10 supplementation may decrease muscle pain associated with statin treatment. Thus, coenzyme Q10 supplementation may offer an alternative to stopping treatment with these vital drugs.”⁵

It Makes Sense to Supplement with CoEnzymeQ-10

CoQ-10 nourishes your heart and brain and provides energy to your entire body. There’s also the added benefit of its antioxidant properties that help prevent free radical from damaging your tissues. This coenzyme is vital to your overall health and performance. If you are taking a statin drug or are over 50 years of age, it makes sense to supplement your diet with CoEnzyme Q-10. Talk to your healthcare provider to find out if you are a good candidate for CoEnzyme Q-10 supplementation. 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