What is Coenzyme Q-10: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated May 14, 2025  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Coenzyme Q10 (or ubiquinone) is an antioxidant naturally produced by the body. It serves many functions related to growth, energy, and overall healthy function of the body’s tissues. Normally, the body makes all the CoQ10 needed, but this production declines with age and other causes. Coenzyme Q10 supplements can help supply needed CoQ10. However, even people with healthy levels of CoQ10 can take supplements to provide additional antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection. That may help with common health problems like high blood pressure or diabetes. Coenzyme Q10 has no standard dosages, so people must decide how much CoQ10 they take.

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Coenzyme Q-10 overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Q-Sorb, Quinogel. Qunol, Smart Q-10

Generic Names:

  • Coenzyme Q10, ubiquinone

Uses:

  • Used as a dietary supplement or skincare product.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Nutriceutical, nutritive agent, skincare agent

Forms:

  • Capsule, chewable tablet, gummy, liquid, skin cream, skin serum

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Coenzyme Q-10 used for?

Coenzyme Q10 is a dietary supplement for general health reasons or its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Some people use it as a complementary or alternative treatment for common medical conditions. Doctors may suggest coenzyme Q10 supplementation for many cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, including high blood pressure, heart failure, heart attack, statin-induced muscle pain, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Coenzyme Q10 is also marketed in skincare products to smooth wrinkles, reduce dryness, or improve the skin's appearance.

What form(s) does Coenzyme Q-10 come in

  • Capsule/softgel

    • 30 mg

    • 50 mg

    • 60 mg

    • 100 mg

    • 120 mg

    • 150 mg

    • 200 mg

    • 300 mg

    • 400 mg

    • 600 mg

  • Gummy

    • 100 mg

    • 200 mg

  • Chewable Tablet

    • 100 mg

    • 300 mg

  • Liquid

    • 100 mg/5 mL

    • 100 mg/10 mL

  • Skin cream

    • Variable concentrations

  • Skin serum

    • Variable concentrations

What are common Coenzyme Q-10 doses?

  • As a daily supplement: 30–200 mg daily

  • As a daily supplement in people with heart failure: 60–300 mg daily

  • As a daily supplement in people with statin-induced muscle problems: 100–600 mg daily

  • For primary coenzyme Q10 deficiency: 5–50 mg/kg daily

Common Coenzyme Q-10 prescriptions

  • Coenzyme Q10
    30 capsules bottle

  • Coenzyme Q10
    60 capsules bottle

How to take Coenzyme Q-10

  • If you are using this medicine without a doctor's order, follow the instructions on the medicine label.

  • How to take coenzyme Q10 supplements:

    • Coenzyme Q10 supplements should be taken with a meal or snack.

    • Swallow coenzyme Q10 capsules with a drink of water.

    • Completely chew coenzyme Q10 chewable tablets or gummies before swallowing.

    • Measure coenzyme Q10 liquid with a measuring spoon or dosing cup.

    • Coenzyme Q10 liquid can be added to a drink and taken that way.

    • Store coenzyme Q10 supplements in a dry place at room temperature.

  • How to administer coenzyme Q10 skincare products:

    • Read the package or container for directions. Instructions will vary by product.

    • Read the package or container for storage directions.

What to do if you miss a dose of Coenzyme Q-10

  • Because coenzyme Q10 is a dietary supplement, a missed dose is not something to worry about.

  • A missed dose can be taken when remembered. 

  • Avoid taking more CoQ10 than usual to make up for a missed dose. Higher doses can cause minor side effects.

Coenzyme Q-10 contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone.

  • Do not use coenzyme Q10 if you have ever experienced an allergic reaction to coenzyme Q10.

Coenzyme Q-10 warnings

  • Tell any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you that you are using this medicine.

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation is probably safe but has not been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women. 

  • Never administer coenzyme Q10 supplements to children younger than 18 except under the advice of a healthcare professional.

  • If you are being treated for diabetes, talk to your doctor about taking coenzyme Q10 supplements. CoQ10 may lower blood sugar.

Coenzyme Q-10 interactions

  • To avoid possible drug interactions, tell any doctor treating you for a medical condition that you are taking coenzyme Q10 supplements.

  • Coenzyme Q10 does not have major drug interactions but can cause minor issues with some medications, including: 

    • Diabetes treatments

    • Cancer drugs

    • The blood thinners warfarin and Plavix (clopidogrel)

Coenzyme Q-10 side effects

Serious side effects

Talk to a doctor if you notice any signs or symptoms of a possible serious side effect, including:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

Less serious side effects

  • Stomach upset

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Loss of appetite

  • Diarrhea

  • Elevation in liver enzymes (when taken in high doses)

Find more information about CoQ10 side effects here.

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