Best CoQ10 Supplements Of 2024, According To Experts (2024)

Published: Aug 28, 2024, 11:05am

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To determine the best CoQ10 supplements, the Forbes Health editorial team consulted experts on the Forbes Health Advisory Board for their top recommendations. Star ratings were assigned by the editorial team based on the following factors:

• Price per serving (40%)
• Third-party testing (30%)
• CoQ10 potency (30%)

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), or ubiquinone, is a vitamin-like nutrient naturally produced in the body and found in nearly all of its cells, says Michelle Routhenstein, a registered dietitian nutritionist at EntirelyNourished.com and a Forbes Health Advisory Board member. The liver, kidneys, pancreas and heart contain the highest amounts of CoQ10.

“It’s essential for cellular energy production and acts as an antioxidant—safeguarding cells, particularly those in the heart—from damage by free radicals (unstable molecules),” says Routhenstein. Because of its vital role in human health, researchers are studying the potential benefits of CoQ10 as a supplement.

CoQ10 exists in both ubiquinone and ubiquinol forms, says David M. Brady, N.D., a board-certified naturopathic practitioner based in Fairfield, Connecticut and chief medical officer at Designs for Health. CoQ10 as ubiquinone is converted to ubiquinol, the reduced form, notes Dr. Brady.“In its ubiquinol form, CoQ10 functions as a potent antioxidant, thus serving as a primary scavenger of free radicals and protecting cell membranes,” he explains.

The bodies of most healthy young individuals can convert ubiquinone to ubiquinol, says Dr. Brady. In fact, research demonstrates that 80% to 95% of circulating CoQ10 is in ubiquinol form^[1]Barcelos IP, Haas RH. CoQ10 and Aging. Biology (Basel). 2019;8(2):28. . However, this conversion slows in aging individuals and those with conditions such as heart failure , diabetes, cancer and fibromyalgia; in these individuals, Dr. Brady recommends supplementing with CoQ10.

CoQ10 supplementation may benefit the following individuals, says Routhenstein:

• People taking statins: “Taking a statin (a drug used to lower cholesterol or triglycerides) may deplete CoQ10 levels, potentially leading to muscle aches,” says Routhenstein. One recent meta-analysis concluded that supplementing with CoQ10 alongside statin therapy may help counteract muscle pain, cramps and weakness^[2]Qu H, Guo M. Effects of Coenzyme Q10 on Statin‐Induced Myopathy: An Updated Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Journal of the American Heart Association. 2018;7(19). .
• Older adults: Because CoQ10 stores decrease with age, older adults are at increased risk of depletion and may benefit from supplementation, Routhenstein says.
• Individuals with chronic health conditions: Because of its role in reducing inflammation, CoQ10 may benefit individuals with heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes and cancer.
• Individuals with fertility issues: CoQ10 supplementation may benefit men and women with infertility. Research indicates that it improves egg health in women with ovulation issues and improves sperm quality and motility in men with male infertility, though further research is warranted^[3]Nie X, Dong X, et al. Coenzyme Q10 Stimulate Reproductive Vitality. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2023 Aug 30;17:2623-2637. ^[4]Salvio G, Cutini M, et al. Coenzyme Q10 and Male Infertility: A Systematic Review. Antioxidants (Basel). 2021 May 30;10(6):874. .

There are pros and cons of taking CoQ10 supplements. “CoQ10 supplements offer potential benefits for heart health, acting as antioxidants, regulating blood pressure, potentially relieving migraines and enhancing exercise performance,” says Routhenstein.

On the other hand, possible drawbacks include limited absorption, cost, potential side effects (such as insomnia or digestive discomfort), interaction with medications and a lack of regulatory oversight. Unlike prescription medications, dietary supplements are not reviewed or tested by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) before they are sold.

Certain individuals are at a higher risk of CoQ10 depletion and may benefit from supplementation. “For example, advanced age, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, mitochondrial disorders and the use of statin drugs are all associated with CoQ10 deficiencies or an increased need for CoQ10,” says Dr. Brady.

“Consulting a health care provider before starting supplementation is important to ensure it’s safe and suitable for your individual health needs,” advises Routhenstein.

Who May Not Benefit?

“Combining CoQ10 with anticoagulants like warfarin or Plavix is not advisable as it may reduce the effectiveness of the anticoagulant, potentially leading to an increased risk of blood clot formation,” explains Routhenstein.

CoQ10 may also interact with blood-sugar-reducing medications like insulin and certain cancer treatments.

When choosing a CoQ10 supplement, it’s vital to follow the dosage recommended by your health care provider based on factors like your age, health status and current medications, says Routhenstein.

Opt for a CoQ10 supplement from a reputable brand that adheres to strict quality control standards, advises Routhenstein. She recommends choosing products evaluated and certified for quality by third-party organizations like the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) or National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) International.