Don’t forget about CoQ10 with your Statin

If you're taking a statin (Lipitor, Zocor, Pravachol, Mevacor, Crestor, etc) to lower your cholesterol or prevent cardiovascular problems, you should seriously consider taking a CoQ10 supplement.

You have probably heard about the dangers of high cholesterol, particularly LDL (“bad cholesterol”). Statins work by blocking an enzyme in the liver responsible for creating cholesterol.

In 2002, guidelines were published that recommended lower target levels for LDL. Since then, people have also started taking statins to prevent cardiovascular problems, even if they don’t have high cholesterol. Bottom line, lots of people are taking statins and higher doses are being prescribed. The problem is that this increases the chance of side effects, including those tied to statins and CoQ10 depletion.

The good news is that pairing CoQ10 with cholesterol medication may help balance things out.

Common side effects of statins include headache, rash, nausea/vomiting/diarrhea and muscle cramps. One of the rare, yet serious side effects is muscle breakdown. This can start with mild muscle pain or weakness and is something you shouldn’t ignore. Studies have shown that statins decrease CoQ10 levels in the body, and this CoQ10 deficiency deprives muscle cells of their energy source. Many experts feel this tug-of-war between statin drugs and coenzyme Q10, and the depletion that follows, is how they cause muscle problems.

Studies have also shown that supplementing with CoQ10 may help with these symptoms.

So what is CoQ10 you may ask? CoQ10, short for coenzyme Q10, is a compound naturally made by the body. Cells use it to make energy for bodily functions and it also acts as an antioxidant.

And now for the details I know you were about to ask about…

Taking CoQ10 doses up to 200mg per day appears to be safe. Mild insomnia can occur when taking 100mg per day or more. CoQ10 can interact with blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin), or change insulin requirements in diabetics. Don’t take this if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

If you are experiencing muscle side effects from a statin and are interested in trying a CoQ10 supplement, take charge of your health and ask your healthcare provider, "Should I take CoQ10 with statins in my situation?" A Village Green practitioner can then recommend an appropriate CoQ10 supplement and provide additional consultation.

CoQ10 and Statin Side Effects Research

CoQ10 Dosing and Best Timing

Doses up to 200mg a day appear to be safe for most adults. Your practitioner can help you find the right amount. The best time to take CoQ10 with statins is with a meal that has some fat in it, since CoQ10 is fat-soluble. Morning or midday may work better than bedtime. Mild insomnia can show up at 100mg a day or more.

CoQ10 for Anyone on Cholesterol Meds

Statins are the cholesterol drugs most often linked to lower CoQ10 levels. If you're on one, ask about CoQ10 for statin users at your next check-up. Bring a list of everything you take. Be sure it includes blood thinners like warfarin and diabetes medications. At Village Green Apothecary, our practitioners can review your CoQ10 and statin use. They can also suggest a supplement tailored to your needs.

Ubiquinone and Ubiquinol Forms

CoQ10 comes in two different forms, ubiquinone (the oxidised form usually found in most supplements) and ubiquinol (the reduced, active antioxidant form). Your body can turn either into the other, and both may help support healthy CoQ10 levels. But some people choose one over the other. Ask your health care practitioner about which is best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take CoQ10 with statins at the same time?

Yes, for most people. There's no general rule about having to separate your CoQ10 and statin doses, so many people take them both at the same meal. Since CoQ10 is fat-soluble, a meal containing some fat may enhance your body's ability to absorb it. Talk to your healthcare practitioner first, particularly if you're taking a blood thinner such as warfarin.

Should CoQ10 be taken with statins?

It's worth a conversation with your practitioner. Statins are associated with lower CoQ10 levels, and some research suggests supplementing may help support muscle comfort, though the results are mixed. CoQ10 isn't right for everyone, including people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How much CoQ10 should I take with statins?

Doses of up to 200mg daily are generally considered to be safe. However, mild insomnia can occur with 100mg daily or higher, so consider taking it earlier in the day. Consult with your health care provider for proper dosing.

Can you take CoQ10 and statins together?

Yes, for most people. There is no general rule about separating your CoQ10 and statin doses, so many people take them at the same meal. CoQ10 is fat-soluble, so a meal with some fat in it may help your body absorb it. Statins are linked to lower CoQ10 levels, which is one reason people consider pairing the two. Be sure to check with your healthcare practitioner first, especially if you take a blood thinner such as warfarin.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.