![]() ![]() Therein lies the rational for using exogenous supplementation of CoQ 10 to ameliorate SAMS.Īnecdotally, most cardiologists, internists, and other physicians who prescribe statins will cite instances in which CoQ 10 treated or prevented SAMS in some of their patients. 10 Since CoQ 10 is fundamentally important to mitochondrial function and cellular energy production (ATP), the depletion of CoQ 10 and resultant mitochondrial dysfunction is hypothesized as the primary pathophysiologic cause of SAMS. 8 Studies in animals and humans have demonstrated statin-induced reduction of CoQ 10 in blood and tissues such as the heart and liver. Statins reduce cholesterol production by inhibiting the mevalonate pathway, which also produces compounds needed for normal mitochondrial function, including ubiquinone or CoQ 10. The mechanisms by which statins cause SAMS are unclear, but several observations are germane to understanding the pathophysiologic relationship. 8 Stopping statins has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Despite the proven life-saving benefits of statins, SAMS is by far the most common reason for noncompliance with statins and, more importantly, the discontinuation of these medications. SAMS can occur in any gender and age group but appear to be more prevalent in women and older adults. Symptoms range from minor muscle aches to more severe muscle pains, severe cramps, muscle weakness, and, in rare instances, rhabdomyolysis. While generally well tolerated in most adults, statins are commonly associated with muscle complaints, termed statin-associated muscle symptoms (SAMS). Consequently, statins are one of the most prescribed drugs in the United States. Arguably, the most effective preventive therapies for atherosclerotic disease are the HMG-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors for lowering LDL and reducing cardiac events in patients with coronary artery disease and in previously healthy patients. 4 Langsjoen and Langsjoen showed that CoQ 10 has superior bioavailability in its reduced form (ubiquinol) than in its oxidized form (ubiquinone), 5 although both have been used in clinical studies.ĬoQ 10 AND STATIN-ASSOCIATED MUSCLE SYMPTOMSĪtherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in adults. added the emulsifier polysorbate 80 to CoQ 10 supplements. CoQ 10 supplements are available as tablets, powder-filled capsules, and oil suspensions in soft gel capsules. Notably, the efficiency of orally ingested CoQ 10 is generally poor but varies depending on the form of preparation. After oral administration, the maximum plasma concentration of CoQ 10 occurs at 6 to 8 hours and has an elimination half-life of over 30 hours. Following absorption, CoQ 10 is reduced to ubiquinol and transported to the liver, where it is incorporated into very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL)/LDL particles and released into the circulation. It is absorbed in the small intestine, aided by secretions from the pancreas and bile. ![]() ![]() Since CoQ 10 is lipophilic, its absorption is similar to that of lipids in the gastrointestinal tract and is increased if ingested with a fatty meal. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |