Coenzyme Q10 (PDQ®)–Health Professional Version

This cancer information summary provides an overview of the use of coenzyme Q₁₀ in cancer therapy. The summary includes a history of coenzyme Q₁₀ research, a review of laboratory studies, and data from investigations involving human subjects. Although several naturally occurring forms of coenzyme Q have been identified, Q₁₀ is the predominant form found in humans and most mammals, and it is the form most studied for therapeutic potential. Thus, it will be the only form of coenzyme Q discussed in this summary.

This summary contains the following key information:

Many of the medical and scientific terms used in the summary are hypertext linked (at first use in each section) to the NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms, which is oriented toward nonexperts. When a linked term is clicked, a definition will appear in a separate window.

Reference citations in some PDQ cancer information summaries may include links to external websites that are operated by individuals or organizations for the purpose of marketing or advocating the use of specific treatments or products. These reference citations are included for informational purposes only. Their inclusion should not be viewed as an endorsement of the content of the websites, or of any treatment or product, by the PDQ Integrative, Alternative, and Complementary Therapies Editorial Board or the National Cancer Institute.

Coenzyme Q₁₀ (also known as CoQ₁₀, Q₁₀, vitamin Q₁₀, ubiquinone, and ubidecarenone) is a benzoquinone compound synthesized naturally by the human body. The “Q” and the “10” in the name refer to the quinone chemical group and the 10 isoprenyl subunits that are part of this compound’s structure. The term “coenzyme” denotes it as an organic (contains carbon atoms), nonprotein molecule necessary for the proper functioning of its protein partner (an enzyme or an enzyme complex). Coenzyme Q₁₀ is used by cells of the body in a process known variously as:

Through this process, mitochondria produce energy for cell growth and maintenance.[1-4] Coenzyme Q₁₀ is also used by the body as an endogenous antioxidant.[1,2,4-8] An antioxidant is a substance that protects cells from free radicals, which are highly reactive chemicals, often containing oxygen atoms, capable of damaging important cellular components such as DNA and lipids. In addition, the plasma level of coenzyme Q₁₀ has been used in studies as a measure of oxidative stress.[9,10]

Coenzyme Q₁₀ is present in most tissues, but the highest concentrations are found in the following organs:[11]

The lowest concentration is found in the lungs.[11] Tissue levels of this compound decrease as people age, due to increased requirements, decreased production,[11] or insufficient intake of the chemical precursors needed for synthesis.[12] In humans, normal blood levels of coenzyme Q₁₀ have been defined variably, with reported normal values ranging from 0.30 to 3.84 µg/mL.[2,4,13,14]

Given the importance of coenzyme Q₁₀ in optimizing cellular energy production, use of this compound as a treatment for diseases other than cancer has been explored. Most of these investigations have focused on coenzyme Q₁₀ as a treatment for cardiovascular disease.[2,4,15] In patients with cancer, coenzyme Q₁₀ has been shown to do the following:

Stimulation of the immune system by this compound has also been observed in animal studies and in humans without cancer.[21-27] In part because of its immunostimulatory potential, coenzyme Q₁₀ has been used as an adjuvant therapy in patients with various types of cancer.[17,20,28-33]

While coenzyme Q₁₀ may show indirect anticancer activity through its effect(s) on the immune system, there is evidence to suggest that analogs of this compound can suppress cancer growth directly. Analogs of coenzyme Q₁₀ have been shown to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells in vitro and the growth of cancer cells transplanted into rats and mice.[12,34] In view of these findings, it has been proposed that analogs of coenzyme Q₁₀ may function as antimetabolites to disrupt normal biochemical reactions that are required for cell growth and/or survival and, thus, that they may be useful as chemotherapeutic agents.[12,34]

Several companies distribute coenzyme Q₁₀ as a dietary supplement. In the United States, dietary supplements are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a separate category from foods, cosmetics, and drugs. Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not require premarket evaluation and approval by the FDA unless specific disease prevention or treatment claims are made. The quality and amount of ingredients in dietary supplements are also regulated by the FDA through Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs). The FDA GMPs requires that every finished batch of dietary supplement meets each product specification for identity, purity, strength, composition, and limits on contamination that may adulterate dietary supplements. Because dietary supplements are not formally reviewed for manufacturing consistency every year, ingredients may vary considerably from lot to lot and there is no guarantee that ingredients claimed on product labels are present (or are present in the specified amounts). The FDA has not approved coenzyme Q₁₀ for the treatment of cancer or any other medical condition.

To conduct clinical drug research in the United States, researchers must file an Investigational New Drug (IND) application with the FDA. The IND application process is highly confidential, and IND information can be disclosed only by the applicants. No investigators have announced that they have applied for an IND to study coenzyme Q₁₀ as a treatment for cancer.

In animal studies, coenzyme Q₁₀ has been administered by injection (intravenous, intraperitoneal, intramuscular, or subcutaneous). In humans, it is usually taken orally as a pill (gel bead or capsule), but intravenous infusions have been given.[4] Coenzyme Q₁₀ is absorbed best with fat; therefore, lipid preparations are better absorbed than the purified compound.[2,4] In human studies, supplementation doses and administration schedules have varied, but usually have been in the range of 90 to 390 mg/day.

References

1. Crane FL, Sun IL, Sun EE: The essential functions of coenzyme Q. Clin Investig 71 (8 Suppl): S55-9, 1993. [PUBMED Abstract]
2. Pepping J: Coenzyme Q10. Am J Health Syst Pharm 56 (6): 519-21, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
3. Folkers K, Wolaniuk A: Research on coenzyme Q10 in clinical medicine and in immunomodulation. Drugs Exp Clin Res 11 (8): 539-45, 1985. [PUBMED Abstract]
4. Overvad K, Diamant B, Holm L, et al.: Coenzyme Q10 in health and disease. Eur J Clin Nutr 53 (10): 764-70, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
5. Beyer RE, Nordenbrand K, Ernster L: The role of coenzyme Q as a mitochondrial antioxidant: a short review. In: Folkers K, Yamamura Y, eds.: Biomedical and Clinical Aspects of Coenzyme Q. Vol 5. Elsevier Science Publishers B V (Biomedical Division), 1986, pp 17-24.
6. Gordon M: Dietary antioxidants in disease prevention. Nat Prod Rep 13 (4): 265-73, 1996. [PUBMED Abstract]
7. Palazzoni G, Pucello D, Littarru GP, et al.: Coenzyme Q10 and colorectal neoplasms in aged patients. Rays 22 (1 Suppl): 73-6, 1997 Jan-Mar. [PUBMED Abstract]
8. Ernster L, Dallner G: Biochemical, physiological and medical aspects of ubiquinone function. Biochim Biophys Acta 1271 (1): 195-204, 1995. [PUBMED Abstract]
9. Yamamoto Y, Yamashita S, Fujisawa A, et al.: Oxidative stress in patients with hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatoma evaluated by plasma antioxidants. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 247 (1): 166-70, 1998. [PUBMED Abstract]
10. Yamamoto Y, Yamashita S: Plasma ratio of ubiquinol and ubiquinone as a marker of oxidative stress. Mol Aspects Med 18 (Suppl): S79-84, 1997. [PUBMED Abstract]
11. Ernster L, Forsmark-Andrée P: Ubiquinol: an endogenous antioxidant in aerobic organisms. Clin Investig 71 (8 Suppl): S60-5, 1993. [PUBMED Abstract]
12. Folkers K: The potential of coenzyme Q 10 (NSC-140865) in cancer treatment. Cancer Chemother Rep 2 4 (4): 19-22, 1974. [PUBMED Abstract]
13. Folkers K, Osterborg A, Nylander M, et al.: Activities of vitamin Q10 in animal models and a serious deficiency in patients with cancer. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 234 (2): 296-9, 1997. [PUBMED Abstract]
14. Jolliet P, Simon N, Barré J, et al.: Plasma coenzyme Q10 concentrations in breast cancer: prognosis and therapeutic consequences. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 36 (9): 506-9, 1998. [PUBMED Abstract]
15. Baggio E, Gandini R, Plancher AC, et al.: Italian multicenter study on the safety and efficacy of coenzyme Q10 as adjunctive therapy in heart failure. CoQ10 Drug Surveillance Investigators. Mol Aspects Med 15 (Suppl): s287-94, 1994. [PUBMED Abstract]
16. Cortes EP, Gupta M, Chou C, et al.: Adriamycin cardiotoxicity: early detection by systolic time interval and possible prevention by coenzyme Q10. Cancer Treat Rep 62 (6): 887-91, 1978. [PUBMED Abstract]
17. Folkers K, Brown R, Judy WV, et al.: Survival of cancer patients on therapy with coenzyme Q10. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 192 (1): 241-5, 1993. [PUBMED Abstract]
18. Iarussi D, Auricchio U, Agretto A, et al.: Protective effect of coenzyme Q10 on anthracyclines cardiotoxicity: control study in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Mol Aspects Med 15 (Suppl): s207-12, 1994. [PUBMED Abstract]
19. Folkers K, Shizukuishi S, Takemura K, et al.: Increase in levels of IgG in serum of patients treated with coenzyme Q10. Res Commun Chem Pathol Pharmacol 38 (2): 335-8, 1982. [PUBMED Abstract]
20. Complementary treatments highlighted at recent meeting. Oncology (Huntingt) 13 (2): 166, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
21. Bliznakov E, Casey A, Premuzic E: Coenzymes Q: stimulants of the phagocytic activity in rats and immune response in mice. Experientia 26 (9): 953-4, 1970. [PUBMED Abstract]
22. Folkers K, Hanioka T, Xia LJ, et al.: Coenzyme Q10 increases T4/T8 ratios of lymphocytes in ordinary subjects and relevance to patients having the AIDS related complex. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 176 (2): 786-91, 1991. [PUBMED Abstract]
23. Kawase I, Niitani H, Saijo N, et al.: Enhancing effect of coenzyme, Q10 on immunorestoration with Mycobacterium bovis BCG in tumor-bearing mice. Gann 69 (4): 493-7, 1978. [PUBMED Abstract]
24. Bliznakov EG: Effect of stimulation of the host defense system by coenzyme Q 10 on dibenzpyrene-induced tumors and infection with Friend leukemia virus in mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 70 (2): 390-4, 1973. [PUBMED Abstract]
25. Bliznakov EG, Adler AD: Nonlinear response of the reticuloendothelial system upon stimulation. Pathol Microbiol (Basel) 38 (6): 393-410, 1972. [PUBMED Abstract]
26. Bliznakov EG: Coenzyme Q in experimental infections and neoplasia. In: Folkers K, Yamamura Y, eds.: Biomedical and Clinical Aspects of Coenzyme Q. Vol 1. Elsevier/North-Holland Biomedical Press, 1977, pp 73-83.
27. Barbieri B, Lund B, Lundström B, et al.: Coenzyme Q10 administration increases antibody titer in hepatitis B vaccinated volunteers--a single blind placebo-controlled and randomized clinical study. Biofactors 9 (2-4): 351-7, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
28. Lockwood K, Moesgaard S, Hanioka T, et al.: Apparent partial remission of breast cancer in 'high risk' patients supplemented with nutritional antioxidants, essential fatty acids and coenzyme Q10. Mol Aspects Med 15 (Suppl): s231-40, 1994. [PUBMED Abstract]
29. Lockwood K, Moesgaard S, Folkers K: Partial and complete regression of breast cancer in patients in relation to dosage of coenzyme Q10. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 199 (3): 1504-8, 1994. [PUBMED Abstract]
30. Lockwood K, Moesgaard S, Yamamoto T, et al.: Progress on therapy of breast cancer with vitamin Q10 and the regression of metastases. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 212 (1): 172-7, 1995. [PUBMED Abstract]
31. Folkers K: Relevance of the biosynthesis of coenzyme Q10 and of the four bases of DNA as a rationale for the molecular causes of cancer and a therapy. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 224 (2): 358-61, 1996. [PUBMED Abstract]
32. Ren S, Lien EJ: Natural products and their derivatives as cancer chemopreventive agents. Prog Drug Res 48: 147-71, 1997. [PUBMED Abstract]
33. Hodges S, Hertz N, Lockwood K, et al.: CoQ10: could it have a role in cancer management? Biofactors 9 (2-4): 365-70, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
34. Folkers K, Porter TH, Bertino JR, et al.: Inhibition of two human tumor cell lines by antimetabolites of coenzyme Q10. Res Commun Chem Pathol Pharmacol 19 (3): 485-90, 1978. [PUBMED Abstract]

Coenzyme Q₁₀ was first isolated in 1957, and its chemical structure (benzoquinone compound) was determined in 1958.[1,2] Interest in coenzyme Q₁₀ as a therapeutic agent in cancer began in 1961, when a deficiency was noted in the blood of both Swedish and American cancer patients, especially in the blood of patients with breast cancer.[2-4] A subsequent study showed a statistically significant relationship between the level of plasma coenzyme Q₁₀ deficiency and breast cancer prognosis.[5] Low blood levels of this compound have been reported in patients with malignancies other than breast cancer, including myeloma, lymphoma, and cancers of the lung, prostate, pancreas, colon, kidney, and head and neck.[2,6,7] Furthermore, decreased levels of coenzyme Q₁₀ have been detected in malignant human tissue,[8-12] but increased levels have been reported as well.[8]

A large amount of laboratory and animal data on coenzyme Q₁₀ have accumulated since 1962.[2] Research into cellular energy-producing mechanisms that involve this compound was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1978. Some of the accumulated data show that coenzyme Q₁₀ stimulates animal immune systems, leading to higher antibody levels,[13] greater numbers and/or activities of macrophages and T cells (T lymphocytes),[13,14] and increased resistance to infection.[15-17] Coenzyme Q₁₀ has also been reported to increase IgG (immunoglobulin G) antibody levels and to increase the CD4 to CD8 T-cell ratio in humans.[18-20] CD4 and CD8 are proteins found on the surface of T cells, with CD4 and CD8 identifying helper T cells and cytotoxic T cells, respectively; decreased CD4 to CD8 T-cell ratios have been reported for cancer patients.[21,22] Research subsequently delineated the antioxidant properties of coenzyme Q₁₀.[23-27]

Proposed mechanisms of action for coenzyme Q₁₀ that are relevant to cancer include its essential function in cellular energy production and its stimulation of the immune system (which may both be related), as well as its role as an antioxidant. Coenzyme Q₁₀ is essential to aerobic energy production,[1,25,28] and it has been suggested that increased cellular energy leads to increased antibody synthesis in B cells (B lymphocytes).[6,18] As noted previously (General Information section), coenzyme Q₁₀ can also behave as an antioxidant.[1,25-27,29-32] In this capacity, coenzyme Q₁₀ is thought to stabilize cell membranes (lipid-containing structures essential to maintaining cell integrity) and to prevent free radical damage to other important cellular components.[1,25,27,32] Free radical damage to DNA (and possibly to other cellular molecules) may be a factor in cancer development.[11,23,30,33-36]

References

1. Pepping J: Coenzyme Q10. Am J Health Syst Pharm 56 (6): 519-21, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
2. Folkers K, Osterborg A, Nylander M, et al.: Activities of vitamin Q10 in animal models and a serious deficiency in patients with cancer. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 234 (2): 296-9, 1997. [PUBMED Abstract]
3. Lockwood K, Moesgaard S, Yamamoto T, et al.: Progress on therapy of breast cancer with vitamin Q10 and the regression of metastases. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 212 (1): 172-7, 1995. [PUBMED Abstract]
4. Ren S, Lien EJ: Natural products and their derivatives as cancer chemopreventive agents. Prog Drug Res 48: 147-71, 1997. [PUBMED Abstract]
5. Jolliet P, Simon N, Barré J, et al.: Plasma coenzyme Q10 concentrations in breast cancer: prognosis and therapeutic consequences. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 36 (9): 506-9, 1998. [PUBMED Abstract]
6. Folkers K: The potential of coenzyme Q 10 (NSC-140865) in cancer treatment. Cancer Chemother Rep 2 4 (4): 19-22, 1974. [PUBMED Abstract]
7. Folkers K: Relevance of the biosynthesis of coenzyme Q10 and of the four bases of DNA as a rationale for the molecular causes of cancer and a therapy. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 224 (2): 358-61, 1996. [PUBMED Abstract]
8. Chipperfield B: Ubiquinone concentrations in some tumour-bearing tissues. Ubiquinone concentrations in tumours and some normal tissues in man. Nature 209 (29): 1207-8, 1966. [PUBMED Abstract]
9. Eggens I, Elmberger PG, Löw P: Polyisoprenoid, cholesterol and ubiquinone levels in human hepatocellular carcinomas. Br J Exp Pathol 70 (1): 83-92, 1989. [PUBMED Abstract]
10. Mano T, Iwase K, Hayashi R, et al.: Vitamin E and coenzyme Q concentrations in the thyroid tissues of patients with various thyroid disorders. Am J Med Sci 315 (4): 230-2, 1998. [PUBMED Abstract]
11. Picardo M, Grammatico P, Roccella F, et al.: Imbalance in the antioxidant pool in melanoma cells and normal melanocytes from patients with melanoma. J Invest Dermatol 107 (3): 322-6, 1996. [PUBMED Abstract]
12. Portakal O, Ozkaya O, Erden Inal M, et al.: Coenzyme Q10 concentrations and antioxidant status in tissues of breast cancer patients. Clin Biochem 33 (4): 279-84, 2000. [PUBMED Abstract]
13. Bliznakov E, Casey A, Premuzic E: Coenzymes Q: stimulants of the phagocytic activity in rats and immune response in mice. Experientia 26 (9): 953-4, 1970. [PUBMED Abstract]
14. Kawase I, Niitani H, Saijo N, et al.: Enhancing effect of coenzyme, Q10 on immunorestoration with Mycobacterium bovis BCG in tumor-bearing mice. Gann 69 (4): 493-7, 1978. [PUBMED Abstract]
15. Bliznakov EG: Effect of stimulation of the host defense system by coenzyme Q 10 on dibenzpyrene-induced tumors and infection with Friend leukemia virus in mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 70 (2): 390-4, 1973. [PUBMED Abstract]
16. Bliznakov EG, Adler AD: Nonlinear response of the reticuloendothelial system upon stimulation. Pathol Microbiol (Basel) 38 (6): 393-410, 1972. [PUBMED Abstract]
17. Bliznakov EG: Coenzyme Q in experimental infections and neoplasia. In: Folkers K, Yamamura Y, eds.: Biomedical and Clinical Aspects of Coenzyme Q. Vol 1. Elsevier/North-Holland Biomedical Press, 1977, pp 73-83.
18. Folkers K, Shizukuishi S, Takemura K, et al.: Increase in levels of IgG in serum of patients treated with coenzyme Q10. Res Commun Chem Pathol Pharmacol 38 (2): 335-8, 1982. [PUBMED Abstract]
19. Folkers K, Hanioka T, Xia LJ, et al.: Coenzyme Q10 increases T4/T8 ratios of lymphocytes in ordinary subjects and relevance to patients having the AIDS related complex. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 176 (2): 786-91, 1991. [PUBMED Abstract]
20. Barbieri B, Lund B, Lundström B, et al.: Coenzyme Q10 administration increases antibody titer in hepatitis B vaccinated volunteers--a single blind placebo-controlled and randomized clinical study. Biofactors 9 (2-4): 351-7, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
21. Shaw M, Ray P, Rubenstein M, et al.: Lymphocyte subsets in urologic cancer patients. Urol Res 15 (3): 181-5, 1987. [PUBMED Abstract]
22. Tsuyuguchi I, Shiratsuchi H, Fukuoka M: T-lymphocyte subsets in primary lung cancer. Jpn J Clin Oncol 17 (1): 13-7, 1987. [PUBMED Abstract]
23. Yamamoto Y, Yamashita S, Fujisawa A, et al.: Oxidative stress in patients with hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatoma evaluated by plasma antioxidants. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 247 (1): 166-70, 1998. [PUBMED Abstract]
24. Yamamoto Y, Yamashita S: Plasma ratio of ubiquinol and ubiquinone as a marker of oxidative stress. Mol Aspects Med 18 (Suppl): S79-84, 1997. [PUBMED Abstract]
25. Crane FL, Sun IL, Sun EE: The essential functions of coenzyme Q. Clin Investig 71 (8 Suppl): S55-9, 1993. [PUBMED Abstract]
26. Overvad K, Diamant B, Holm L, et al.: Coenzyme Q10 in health and disease. Eur J Clin Nutr 53 (10): 764-70, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
27. Ernster L, Forsmark-Andrée P: Ubiquinol: an endogenous antioxidant in aerobic organisms. Clin Investig 71 (8 Suppl): S60-5, 1993. [PUBMED Abstract]
28. Folkers K, Wolaniuk A: Research on coenzyme Q10 in clinical medicine and in immunomodulation. Drugs Exp Clin Res 11 (8): 539-45, 1985. [PUBMED Abstract]
29. Beyer RE, Nordenbrand K, Ernster L: The role of coenzyme Q as a mitochondrial antioxidant: a short review. In: Folkers K, Yamamura Y, eds.: Biomedical and Clinical Aspects of Coenzyme Q. Vol 5. Elsevier Science Publishers B V (Biomedical Division), 1986, pp 17-24.
30. Gordon M: Dietary antioxidants in disease prevention. Nat Prod Rep 13 (4): 265-73, 1996. [PUBMED Abstract]
31. Palazzoni G, Pucello D, Littarru GP, et al.: Coenzyme Q10 and colorectal neoplasms in aged patients. Rays 22 (1 Suppl): 73-6, 1997 Jan-Mar. [PUBMED Abstract]
32. Ernster L, Dallner G: Biochemical, physiological and medical aspects of ubiquinone function. Biochim Biophys Acta 1271 (1): 195-204, 1995. [PUBMED Abstract]
33. Aust AE, Eveleigh JF: Mechanisms of DNA oxidation. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med 222 (3): 246-52, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
34. Halliwell B: Oxygen and nitrogen are pro-carcinogens. Damage to DNA by reactive oxygen, chlorine and nitrogen species: measurement, mechanism and the effects of nutrition. Mutat Res 443 (1-2): 37-52, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
35. Burcham PC: Internal hazards: baseline DNA damage by endogenous products of normal metabolism. Mutat Res 443 (1-2): 11-36, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
36. Dreher D, Junod AF: Role of oxygen free radicals in cancer development. Eur J Cancer 32A (1): 30-8, 1996. [PUBMED Abstract]

Laboratory work on coenzyme Q₁₀ has focused primarily on its structure and its function in cell respiration. Studies in animals have demonstrated that coenzyme Q₁₀ is capable of stimulating the immune system, with treated animals showing increased resistance to protozoal infections [1,2] and to viral and chemically-induced neoplasia.[1-4] Early studies of coenzyme Q₁₀ showed increased hematopoiesis (the formation of new blood cells) in monkeys,[4,5] rabbits,[6] and poultry.[5] Coenzyme Q₁₀ demonstrated a protective effect on the heart muscle of mice, rats, and rabbits given the anthracycline anticancer drug doxorubicin.[7-12] Although another study confirmed this protective effect with intraperitoneal administration of doxorubicin in mice, it failed to demonstrate a protective effect when the anthracycline was given intravenously, which is the route of administration in humans.[13]

Researchers in one study sounded a cautionary note when they found that coadministration of coenzyme Q₁₀ and radiation therapy decreased the effectiveness of the radiation therapy.[14] In this study, mice inoculated with human small cell lung cancer cells (a xenograft study), and then given coenzyme Q₁₀ and single-dose radiation therapy, showed substantially less inhibition of tumor growth than mice in the control group that were treated with radiation therapy alone. Since radiation leads to the production of free radicals, and since antioxidants protect against free radical damage, the effect in this study might be explained by coenzyme Q₁₀ acting as an antioxidant. As noted previously, there is some evidence from laboratory and animal studies that analogs of coenzyme Q₁₀ may have direct anticancer activity.[15,16] See the General Information section.

References

1. Bliznakov EG, Adler AD: Nonlinear response of the reticuloendothelial system upon stimulation. Pathol Microbiol (Basel) 38 (6): 393-410, 1972. [PUBMED Abstract]
2. Bliznakov EG: Coenzyme Q in experimental infections and neoplasia. In: Folkers K, Yamamura Y, eds.: Biomedical and Clinical Aspects of Coenzyme Q. Vol 1. Elsevier/North-Holland Biomedical Press, 1977, pp 73-83.
3. Bliznakov EG: Effect of stimulation of the host defense system by coenzyme Q 10 on dibenzpyrene-induced tumors and infection with Friend leukemia virus in mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 70 (2): 390-4, 1973. [PUBMED Abstract]
4. Folkers K, Osterborg A, Nylander M, et al.: Activities of vitamin Q10 in animal models and a serious deficiency in patients with cancer. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 234 (2): 296-9, 1997. [PUBMED Abstract]
5. Folkers K, Brown R, Judy WV, et al.: Survival of cancer patients on therapy with coenzyme Q10. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 192 (1): 241-5, 1993. [PUBMED Abstract]
6. Ludwig FC, Elashoff RM, Smith JL, et al.: Response of the bone marrow of the vitamin E-deficient rabbit to coenzyme Q and vitamin E. Scand J Haematol 4 (4): 292-300, 1967. [PUBMED Abstract]
7. Choe JY, Combs AB, Folkers K: Prevention by coenzyme Q10 of the electrocardiographic changes induced by adriamycin in rats. Res Commun Chem Pathol Pharmacol 23 (1): 199-202, 1979. [PUBMED Abstract]
8. Combs AB, Choe JY, Truong DH, et al.: Reduction by coenzyme Q10 of the acute toxicity of adriamycin in mice. Res Commun Chem Pathol Pharmacol 18 (3): 565-8, 1977. [PUBMED Abstract]
9. Folkers K, Choe JY, Combs AB: Rescue by coenzyme Q10 from electrocardiographic abnormalities caused by the toxicity of adriamycin in the rat. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 75 (10): 5178-80, 1978. [PUBMED Abstract]
10. Lubawy WC, Dallam RA, Hurley LH: Protection against anthramycin-induced toxicity in mice by coenzyme Q10. J Natl Cancer Inst 64 (1): 105-9, 1980. [PUBMED Abstract]
11. Shinozawa S, Gomita Y, Araki Y: Protective effects of various drugs on adriamycin (doxorubicin)-induced toxicity and microsomal lipid peroxidation in mice and rats. Biol Pharm Bull 16 (11): 1114-7, 1993. [PUBMED Abstract]
12. Usui T, Ishikura H, Izumi Y, et al.: Possible prevention from the progression of cardiotoxicity in adriamycin-treated rabbits by coenzyme Q10. Toxicol Lett 12 (1): 75-82, 1982. [PUBMED Abstract]
13. Shaeffer J, El-Mahdi AM, Nichols RK: Coenzyme Q10 and adriamycin toxicity in mice. Res Commun Chem Pathol Pharmacol 29 (2): 309-15, 1980. [PUBMED Abstract]
14. Lund EL, Quistorff B, Spang-Thomsen M, et al.: Effect of radiation therapy on small-cell lung cancer is reduced by ubiquinone intake. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 43 (5): 505-6, 1998. [PUBMED Abstract]
15. Folkers K: The potential of coenzyme Q 10 (NSC-140865) in cancer treatment. Cancer Chemother Rep 2 4 (4): 19-22, 1974. [PUBMED Abstract]
16. Folkers K, Porter TH, Bertino JR, et al.: Inhibition of two human tumor cell lines by antimetabolites of coenzyme Q10. Res Commun Chem Pathol Pharmacol 19 (3): 485-90, 1978. [PUBMED Abstract]

Clinical studies on the use of coenzyme Q₁₀ to prevent side effects of cancer treatment, treat side effects of cancer treatment, and/or as a treatment for cancer are very limited. Importantly, clinical trials that examined the use of coenzyme Q₁₀ during cancer treatment to prevent toxicities have not followed patients for long-term outcomes to determine whether coenzyme Q₁₀ decreased the efficacy of cancer treatments (e.g., chemotherapy and radiation therapy). A recent observational study conducted with 1,134 patients with breast cancer enrolled in an National Cancer Institute multi-institution clinical trial (SWOG S0221) suggested that the use of antioxidant supplements, including coenzyme Q₁₀, prior to and during cancer treatment may be associated with increased recurrence rates and decreased survival.[1]

References

1. Ambrosone CB, Zirpoli GR, Hutson AD, et al.: Dietary Supplement Use During Chemotherapy and Survival Outcomes of Patients With Breast Cancer Enrolled in a Cooperative Group Clinical Trial (SWOG S0221). J Clin Oncol 38 (8): 804-814, 2020. [PUBMED Abstract]
2. Cortes EP, Gupta M, Chou C, et al.: Adriamycin cardiotoxicity: early detection by systolic time interval and possible prevention by coenzyme Q10. Cancer Treat Rep 62 (6): 887-91, 1978. [PUBMED Abstract]
3. Usui T, Ishikura H, Izumi Y, et al.: Possible prevention from the progression of cardiotoxicity in adriamycin-treated rabbits by coenzyme Q10. Toxicol Lett 12 (1): 75-82, 1982. [PUBMED Abstract]
4. Iwamoto Y, Hansen IL, Porter TH, et al.: Inhibition of coenzyme Q10-enzymes, succinoxidase and NADH-oxidase, by adriamycin and other quinones having antitumor activity. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 58 (3): 633-8, 1974. [PUBMED Abstract]
5. Folkers K, Wolaniuk A: Research on coenzyme Q10 in clinical medicine and in immunomodulation. Drugs Exp Clin Res 11 (8): 539-45, 1985. [PUBMED Abstract]
6. Folkers K, Brown R, Judy WV, et al.: Survival of cancer patients on therapy with coenzyme Q10. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 192 (1): 241-5, 1993. [PUBMED Abstract]
7. Iarussi D, Auricchio U, Agretto A, et al.: Protective effect of coenzyme Q10 on anthracyclines cardiotoxicity: control study in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Mol Aspects Med 15 (Suppl): s207-12, 1994. [PUBMED Abstract]
8. Lesser GJ, Case D, Stark N, et al.: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of oral coenzyme Q10 to relieve self-reported treatment-related fatigue in newly diagnosed patients with breast cancer. J Support Oncol 11 (1): 31-42, 2013. [PUBMED Abstract]
9. Iwase S, Kawaguchi T, Yotsumoto D, et al.: Efficacy and safety of an amino acid jelly containing coenzyme Q10 and L-carnitine in controlling fatigue in breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy: a multi-institutional, randomized, exploratory trial (JORTC-CAM01). Support Care Cancer 24 (2): 637-646, 2016. [PUBMED Abstract]
10. Folkers K, Osterborg A, Nylander M, et al.: Activities of vitamin Q10 in animal models and a serious deficiency in patients with cancer. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 234 (2): 296-9, 1997. [PUBMED Abstract]
11. Lockwood K, Moesgaard S, Yamamoto T, et al.: Progress on therapy of breast cancer with vitamin Q10 and the regression of metastases. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 212 (1): 172-7, 1995. [PUBMED Abstract]
12. Folkers K: Relevance of the biosynthesis of coenzyme Q10 and of the four bases of DNA as a rationale for the molecular causes of cancer and a therapy. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 224 (2): 358-61, 1996. [PUBMED Abstract]
13. Ren S, Lien EJ: Natural products and their derivatives as cancer chemopreventive agents. Prog Drug Res 48: 147-71, 1997. [PUBMED Abstract]
14. Shidal C, Yoon HS, Zheng W, et al.: Prospective study of plasma levels of coenzyme Q10 and lung cancer risk in a low-income population in the Southeastern United States. Cancer Med 10 (4): 1439-1447, 2021. [PUBMED Abstract]
15. Lockwood K, Moesgaard S, Hanioka T, et al.: Apparent partial remission of breast cancer in 'high risk' patients supplemented with nutritional antioxidants, essential fatty acids and coenzyme Q10. Mol Aspects Med 15 (Suppl): s231-40, 1994. [PUBMED Abstract]
16. Lockwood K, Moesgaard S, Folkers K: Partial and complete regression of breast cancer in patients in relation to dosage of coenzyme Q10. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 199 (3): 1504-8, 1994. [PUBMED Abstract]

No serious toxicity associated with the use of coenzyme Q₁₀ has been reported.[1-4] Doses of 100 mg/day or higher have caused mild insomnia in some individuals. Liver enzyme elevation has been detected in patients taking doses of 300 mg/day for extended periods of time, but no liver toxicity has been reported.[1] Researchers in one cardiovascular study reported that coenzyme Q₁₀ caused rashes, nausea, and epigastric (upper abdominal) pain that required withdrawal of a small number of patients from the study.[5] Other reported side effects have included dizziness, photophobia (abnormal visual sensitivity to light), irritability,[5] headache, heartburn, and fatigue.[6]

In a prospective study that explored the association between supplement use and breast cancer outcomes (SWOG S0221), the use of any antioxidant supplement before and during treatment–including coenzyme Q₁₀, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and carotenoids–was associated with a trend showing an increased hazard of recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.41; confidence interval, 0.98–2.04, P = .06).[7]

Certain lipid-lowering drugs, such as the statins (lovastatin, pravastatin, and simvastatin) and gemfibrozil, as well as oral agents that lower blood sugar, such as glyburide and tolazamide, cause a decrease in serum levels of coenzyme Q₁₀ and reduce the effects of coenzyme Q₁₀ supplementation.[1,8-10] Beta-blockers (drugs that slow the heart rate and lower blood pressure) can inhibit coenzyme Q₁₀-dependent enzyme reactions. The contractile force of the heart in patients with high blood pressure can be increased by coenzyme Q₁₀ administration.[1] Coenzyme Q₁₀ can reduce the body’s response to the anticoagulant drug warfarin.[10] Finally, coenzyme Q₁₀ can decrease insulin requirements in individuals with diabetes.

References

1. Pepping J: Coenzyme Q10. Am J Health Syst Pharm 56 (6): 519-21, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
2. Overvad K, Diamant B, Holm L, et al.: Coenzyme Q10 in health and disease. Eur J Clin Nutr 53 (10): 764-70, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
3. Hodges S, Hertz N, Lockwood K, et al.: CoQ10: could it have a role in cancer management? Biofactors 9 (2-4): 365-70, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
4. Heller JH: Disease, the host defense, and Q-10. Perspect Biol Med 16 (2): 181-7, 1973 Winter. [PUBMED Abstract]
5. Baggio E, Gandini R, Plancher AC, et al.: Italian multicenter study on the safety and efficacy of coenzyme Q10 as adjunctive therapy in heart failure. CoQ10 Drug Surveillance Investigators. Mol Aspects Med 15 (Suppl): s287-94, 1994. [PUBMED Abstract]
6. Feigin A, Kieburtz K, Como P, et al.: Assessment of coenzyme Q10 tolerability in Huntington's disease. Mov Disord 11 (3): 321-3, 1996. [PUBMED Abstract]
7. Ambrosone CB, Zirpoli GR, Hutson AD, et al.: Dietary Supplement Use During Chemotherapy and Survival Outcomes of Patients With Breast Cancer Enrolled in a Cooperative Group Clinical Trial (SWOG S0221). J Clin Oncol 38 (8): 804-814, 2020. [PUBMED Abstract]
8. Kaikkonen J, Nyyssönen K, Tuomainen TP, et al.: Determinants of plasma coenzyme Q10 in humans. FEBS Lett 443 (2): 163-6, 1999. [PUBMED Abstract]
9. Thibault A, Samid D, Tompkins AC, et al.: Phase I study of lovastatin, an inhibitor of the mevalonate pathway, in patients with cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2 (3): 483-91, 1996. [PUBMED Abstract]
10. Coenzyme Q10. In: Jellin JM, Hitchens K, eds.: Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Therapeutic Research Faculty, 1999, pp 241-42.

To assist readers in evaluating the results of human studies of integrative, alternative, and complementary therapies for cancer, the strength of the evidence (i.e., the “levels of evidence”) associated with each type of treatment is provided whenever possible. To qualify for a level of evidence analysis, a study must:

Separate levels of evidence scores are assigned to qualifying human studies on the basis of statistical strength of the study design and scientific strength of the treatment outcomes (i.e., endpoints) measured. The resulting two scores are then combined to produce an overall score. A table showing the levels of evidence scores for qualifying human studies cited in this summary is presented below. For an explanation of the scores and additional information about levels of evidence analysis for cancer, see Levels of Evidence for Human Studies of Integrative, Alternative, and Complementary Therapies.

References

1. Lockwood K, Moesgaard S, Hanioka T, et al.: Apparent partial remission of breast cancer in 'high risk' patients supplemented with nutritional antioxidants, essential fatty acids and coenzyme Q10. Mol Aspects Med 15 (Suppl): s231-40, 1994. [PUBMED Abstract]

The PDQ cancer information summaries are reviewed regularly and updated as new information becomes available. This section describes the latest changes made to this summary as of the date above.

Editorial changes were made to this summary.

This summary is written and maintained by the PDQ Integrative, Alternative, and Complementary Therapies Editorial Board, which is editorially independent of NCI. The summary reflects an independent review of the literature and does not represent a policy statement of NCI or NIH. More information about summary policies and the role of the PDQ Editorial Boards in maintaining the PDQ summaries can be found on the About This PDQ Summary and PDQ® Cancer Information for Health Professionals pages.