Ubiquinone (coenzyme Q-10)

Ubiquinone is a vitamin-like substance that the body produces naturally. Ubiquinone is also known as Co Q-10, Coenzima, Ubidcarenone, Ubidécarénone, and Ubiquinol.

Ubiquinone is likely effective in alternative medicine for treating coenzyme Q-10 deficiency or reducing symptoms of mitochondrial disorders (conditions that affect how energy is produced in the body's cells).

Ubiquinone may also help prevent migraine headaches, lower blood pressure, reduce tissue damage after surgery, or prevent a second heart attack. It may improve symptoms in people with congestive heart failure, nerve issues caused by diabetes, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, muscular dystrophy, or Peyronie's disease.

Ubiquinone has been used to treat Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig's disease), fatigue caused by cancer drugs, symptoms of Parkinson's disease, or muscle symptoms in Polio survivors. However, research indicates that ubiquinone may not effectively treat these conditions.

Research has also shown that ubiquinone is not likely to improve athletic performance or slow the progression of Huntington's disease.

Other uses that have not been proven by research include treating asthma, COPD, cancer, diabetes, certain heart problems, hepatitis C, kidney issues, muscle problems caused by 'statin' cholesterol medications, and other conditions.

It is not clear whether ubiquinone is effective for any medical condition. The FDA has not approved medicinal use of this product. Ubiquinone should not replace any medication prescribed by your doctor.

Ubiquinone is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards for many herbal products, and some supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. It's important to buy herbal/health supplements from a reliable source to reduce the risk of contamination.

Ubiquinone may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.

When thinking about using herbal supplements, talk to your doctor. You might also want to consult someone who is trained in herbal or health supplements.

If you decide to use ubiquinone, follow the directions on the package or those given by your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. Do not use more than what is recommended on the label.

Chew the chewable ubiquinone thoroughly before swallowing it.

Use the measuring device provided to measure liquid ubiquinone (not a kitchen spoon).

To take the disintegrating tablet, use dry hands to take it out of the package and place it in your mouth. It will start to dissolve immediately. Do not swallow the tablet whole. Let it dissolve in your mouth without chewing.

Your blood pressure may need to be checked while you are taking ubiquinone.

If you need surgery, dental work, or a medical procedure, stop taking ubiquinone at least 2 weeks beforehand.

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Contact your doctor if the condition you are treating with ubiquinone does not improve or if it worsens while using this product.

Follow all instructions on the product label and package. Inform each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you are using.

Ask a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider if it is safe for you to use this product if you have ever had:

• heart problems, high or low blood pressure;
• if you are receiving chemotherapy; or
• if you smoke.

Ask a doctor before using this product if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without a doctor's advice.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Although not all side effects are known, ubiquinone is thought to be likely safe for most adults when used as directed.

Stop using ubiquinone and call your healthcare provider at once if you have:

• very low blood pressure--dizziness, severe weakness, feeling like you might pass out.

Common side effects of ubiquinone may include:

• upset stomach, nausea, heartburn, vomiting, loss of appetite;
• diarrhea;
• skin rash; or
• low blood pressure.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Usual Adult Dose for Dietary Supplement:

Oral: 30 to 200 mg/day

If you miss a dose, do not take it. Just take the next dose at its regular time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Avoid using ubiquinone with other herbal or health supplements that can also lower blood pressure.

Do not use different forms of ubiquinone at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose.

Do not take ubiquinone without medical advice if you are using any of the following medications:

• omega-3 fatty acids;
• vitamins (especially A, C, E, or K);
• heart or blood pressure medication;
• cancer medicine; or
• a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven).

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect ubiquinone, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.