Taking CoQ10 to Lower Blood Pressure

Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is a naturally occurring nutrient that is believed to help with high blood pressure and other cardiovascular (heart) conditions. It is an antioxidant supplement also used to counter the effects of aging and related diseases like cancer.

CoQ10 is not officially recognized as a treatment for blood pressure. However, it's believed that these supplements can improve conditions such as high blood pressure, increase the production of energy in cells, and prevent the formation of blood clots.

This article will explain CoQ10, its uses, and the potential risks and benefits that you should always discuss with your healthcare provider before you start taking CoQ10.

What is CoQ10?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10 or ubiquinol) is a nutrient that helps boost the conversion of food to energy. It is found naturally in the body, especially in the heart, liver, kidneys, and pancreas.

CoQ10 is an antioxidant that helps fight free radicals, the unstable oxygen-containing molecules that damage cell membranes and DNA. Free radicals are widely believed to contribute to aging and increase the risk of aging-related diseases like cancer and heart disease.

The use of an antioxidant supplement is thought to neutralize free radicals, reducing or preventing cellular damage as well as the risk of certain diseases. Some studies suggest CoQ10 can limit heart damage from chemotherapy drugs like doxorubicin and boost immune system function.

While the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of CoQ10 may offer benefits in treating high blood pressure, some studies suggest a direct action on the tissue that lines blood vessels. This can limit vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) that can contribute to high blood pressure.

CoQ10 and Benefits for Blood Pressure

Among the cardiovascular conditions that may be prevented or treated with CoQ10 supplements are heart failure, heart attacks, and high blood pressure. Research has demonstrated that CoQ10 may be effective for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure).

Some experts believe people diagnosed with high blood pressure may have low concentrations of CoQ10 in their bodies. Several studies have suggested that CoQ10 can effect positive changes in blood pressure, generally within four to 12 weeks of use.

Yet the research on how effective CoQ10 truly is in lowering blood pressure yields mixed results. A 2016 analysis in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews could find no evidence that CoQ10 had any effect on either systolic or diastolic blood pressure.

Nor is CoQ10 an accepted or recommended medication for lowering blood pressure as outlined by international guidelines.

Possible Side Effects

No major side effects have been reported with CoQ10 use. Some people report that they experience:

• Digestive upset (heartburn, nausea, diarrhea)
• Dizziness
• Problems with sleeping

People who take certain drugs should speak with a healthcare provider before taking CoQ10. These include:

• Blood thinners like Coumadin (warfarin) and Plavix (clopidogrel)
• Blood pressure medications (including statin drugs)
• Cancer treatment drugs (chemotherapy)
• Tricyclic antidepressant medications, including Elavil (amitriptyline), and Tofranil (imipramin)

Since studies have not determined safety during pregnancy, CoQ10 supplements are not recommended for use by pregnant people. People diagnosed with diabetes should consult their healthcare providers before using CoQ10 supplements as the supplements may alter blood sugar.

Dosage and Preparation

The addition of CoQ10 supplements may allow a decrease in the dosage of other antihypertensive drugs in some people treated for high blood pressure. With that said, you should never change doses unless your doctor gives you the OK. Regular blood pressure monitoring is needed before a decision can be made.

COQ10 should only be taken by adults 19 and older. Recommended dosages range from 30 mg to 200 mg daily, depending on the manufacturer, but how much CoQ10 to lower blood pressure will depend on your individual needs. Soft gel capsules are thought to be absorbed better than other formulations.

Summary

Some people take CoQ10 supplements to help lower their blood pressure. The antioxidant is thought to help when treating hypertension and heart-related illness.

If you have high blood pressure, supplements may or may not be useful in treating hypertension. Research is inconclusive, and it's too soon to suggest that CoQ10 or any other supplement will work as well as antihypertensive drugs and other proven strategies, including lifestyle changes like improved diet and smoking cessation.

If you are considering the use of a supplement like CoQ10, tell your healthcare professional. Some supplements may interact with the antihypertensive medications you take. It is also important to monitor your blood pressure regularly when making any changes in your treatment plan.