Considerations for supplementing with coenzyme Q10 during statin therapy.

OBJECTIVE

To review the literature concerning the effects of statin use on coenzyme (Co) Q10 concentrations and explain the rationale behind considering CoQ10 supplementation.

DATA SOURCES

A MEDLINE search was conducted through January 2006. Search terms included ubiquinone, coenzyme Q10, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, statins, myotoxicity, and clinical trials.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Statin therapy reduces blood CoQ10 concentrations. Studies exploring how this affects the development of myotoxicity have been small and dissimilar, thus limiting the ability to draw strong conclusions. Isolated studies suggested that statins induce mitochondrial dysfunction, but the clinical implications of this effect are limited. Limited data suggest that patients with familial hypercholesterolemia, heart failure, or who are over 65 years of age might represent at-risk populations who would benefit from CoQ10 supplementation.

CONCLUSIONS

Routine CoQ10 supplementation for all patients taking statins to prevent myotoxicity is not recommended. However, certain subpopulations might be at risk and warrant further study.