Risks of CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) occurs naturally in the body and helps cells function on a basic level. CoQ10 supplements can help raise CoQ10 levels that decrease with age. Supplements and herbs are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, meaning there is no guarantee that a product is safe or pure. Always check with your doctor before starting any new supplements. Stop taking CoQ10 if you experience unpleasant side effects and make an appointment to see your doctor to evaluate your condition.

Allergic Reaction

Allergic reactions to natural supplements are rare, but they can occur. CoQ10 allergic reactions typically manifest as itching or a rash. Patients experiencing these symptoms should stop taking CoQ10 immediately and contact a medical professional.

Sleep Disturbances

Patients taking CoQ10 supplements have reported sleep disturbances. Herbs and supplements work differently in different people depending on their body chemistry. CoQ10 can cause insomnia in some patients and fatigue in others.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

Gastrointestinal side effects are some of the most common risks of CoQ10 supplements. Patients have reported nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn and loss of appetite after taking CoQ10. A 2006 study published in Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology stated that gastrointestinal effects of CoQ10 could not be causally related to the active ingredient because study participants who took very high doses of the coenzyme did not experience more adverse effects than participants taking a very low dose.

Low Blood Sugar

CoQ10 can lower blood sugar levels in some patients. People taking other drugs or supplements that affect blood sugar levels should be monitored by a doctor and possibly have their medications adjusted to avoid dangerously low blood sugar levels. Patients with diabetes or hypoglycemia should be especially cautious of their blood sugar levels when taking CoQ10.

Low Blood Platelets

CoQ10 may lower blood platelets in some patients. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is unclear whether CoQ10 supplements can cause this on their own or if other factors, such as infection and other medications, were responsible for low platelet numbers. Patients with bleeding disorders and those on drugs that increase bleeding should check with a doctor before taking CoQ10, as low platelets can increase the risk of bleeding.

Low Blood Pressure

CoQ10 can lower blood pressure. Patients with low blood pressure and those on blood pressure medications should not take CoQ10 supplements unless a doctor monitors them while they are on the supplements. Patients who are already at risk for low blood pressure due to other medical conditions may need their blood pressure carefully monitored while taking CoQ10.

Organ Damage

Patients taking CoQ10 supplements are often advised to avoid intense exercise. According to the Mayo Clinic, organ damage was found in patients with heart disease on CoQ10 supplements because of a lack of adequate oxygen and blood flow to the organs. It is not clear what the specific role of CoQ10 was in this study, but avoiding intense workouts is best.