Therapeutic use of coenzyme Q10 and coenzyme Q10-related compounds and formulations

Importance of the field: Coenzyme Q₁₀ (CoQ₁₀) is found in blood and in all organs. CoQ₁₀ deficiencies are due to autosomal recessive mutations, ageing-related oxidative stress and carcinogenesis processes, and also statin treatment. Many neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes, cancer and muscular and cardiovascular diseases have been associated with low CoQ₁₀ levels, as well as different ataxias and encephalomyopathies.

Areas covered in this review: We review the efficacy of a variety of commercial formulations which have been developed to solubilise CoQ₁₀ and promote its better absorption in vivo, and its use in the therapy of pathologies associated with low CoQ₁₀ levels, with emphasis in the results of the clinical trials. Also, we review the use of its analogues idebenone and MitoQ^®.

What the reader will gain: This review covers the most relevant aspects related with the therapeutic use of CoQ₁₀, including existing formulations and their effects on its bioavailability.

Take home message: CoQ₁₀ does not cause serious adverse effects in humans and new formulations have been developed that increase CoQ₁₀ absorption. Oral CoQ₁₀ is a viable antioxidant strategy in many diseases, providing a significant to mild symptomatic benefit. Idebenone and MitoQ are promising substitutive CoQ₁₀-related drugs which are well tolerated and safe.