Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) has attracted interest from cancer researchers, but it has not been shown to treat or prevent cancer. Laboratory and animal studies have explored its effects on tumor growth, and small human studies have looked at whether it can help improve energy levels, ease discomfort from cancer treatment, or affect survival, with results that are limited and inconclusive.
In this article, we explore what the research says about CoQ10 in cancer care, including studies on tumor growth, digestion, and fatigue. We will also touch upon potential side effects, differences in efficacy and dosages (CoQ10 200mg), as well as points to discuss with your cancer care team if you are considering CoQ10.
What is CoQ10?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a vitamin-like substance found in every cell of the human body. It is also known as ubiquinone and is available as a dietary supplement. CoQ10 allows the body to produce the energy cells need to grow and maintain health. It also acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from free radicals and other types of damage. CoQ10 is present abundantly in the heart, liver, kidneys and pancreas, where its highest concentrations are noted. It helps an enzyme speed up natural chemical reactions in body cells, and these reactions produce energy within the mitochondria.
CoQ10 is also available as a dietary supplement. It is believed that taking CoQ10 may support the immune system and mitochondrial health, and provide antioxidant effects. Some small studies have looked at whether CoQ10 affects fatigue, quality of life or survival in people with cancer, but these results have not been confirmed in well-designed trials.
Laboratory and animal studies have suggested that CoQ10 may have effects during cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. However, clinical trials have not conclusively shown that it has any benefits for cancer patients. Studies of CoQ10 for fatigue in breast cancer patients have had mixed results, and one randomized trial found it did not improve fatigue or quality of life.
CoQ10 is an important compound for the body, but its value in cancer care has not been established. People with cancer should talk with their oncologist before taking CoQ10 or any other supplement, because some supplements can interact with cancer treatment.
History of CoQ10 in Cancer Research
CoQ10 has been investigated in people with cancer in a limited manner. It was first identified in 1957 by American scientists and the chemical structure of coenzyme Q10 was determined in 1958.
Interest in CoQ10 in cancer research began in 1961 when it was found that people with myeloma, lymphoma, breast, lung, prostate, pancreas, colon, kidney, and head and neck cancer had lower than normal amounts of CoQ10 in their blood.
These findings led to further research into CoQ10 as a possible supplement and as an adjuvant (extra) therapy alongside conventional cancer care.
Discovery and Use of CoQ10
CoQ10 is a coenzyme found naturally in the body and involved in the production of energy. Since its discovery, it has been studied for heart health, immune function and inflammation, and for its possible role in cancer care. Studies have suggested that CoQ10 may have immune system effects and antioxidant effects, but whether these slow the growth of tumors has not been shown in people.
The research is still limited. Most of the studies conducted so far have been in animal models, with only a few randomized controlled trials in humans. A few anecdotal reports and case reports have described positive results, but these are the weakest kind of evidence and have not been confirmed.
Theory Behind the Claim
The theory behind the claim that CoQ10 could play a role in cancer care is based mainly on laboratory research, which the National Cancer Institute has reviewed. Laboratory research suggests that CoQ10 could also reduce vascular endothelial growth factor, a molecule that helps cancer cells grow, but this has not been shown in people.
The National Cancer Institute does not currently recommend CoQ10 as an alternative or complementary treatment for cancer. More research is needed to know whether it has any effect in humans.
How is CoQ10 Administered?
CoQ10 is most commonly taken by mouth, and it is better absorbed when taken with a meal that contains oil or fat. Injected forms of CoQ10 have been used only in research settings and are not a standard treatment.
It is important to discuss all administration options with a healthcare professional before beginning CoQ10. Your doctor can advise on the right form and amount for you.
CoQ10 is sold as a dietary supplement, so it is not regulated in the same way as prescription medications. Amounts may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so read labels carefully and follow instructions exactly.
CoQ10 and Cancer: What Studies Have Explored
CoQ10 is a vitamin-like substance found naturally in the body and present in small amounts in some foods. It acts as an antioxidant and has been studied as an adjuvant therapy, or extra therapy, for cancer patients undergoing conventional treatments. Laboratory and small human studies have looked at its effects on the immune system, vascular endothelial growth factor and inflammatory markers, but none of this has shown that CoQ10 treats cancer.
Discuss any potential use of CoQ10 with a healthcare professional before beginning supplementation. CoQ10 has not been proven to benefit people with cancer, and it should never replace conventional therapies. Potential side effects include nausea, headaches, and dizziness, and recommended amounts vary depending on the individual's condition and other medications.
Immune System Support
CoQ10 acts as an antioxidant and may protect cells against oxidative stress, which is relevant to immune function. Some studies have measured lower inflammation markers with CoQ10 supplementation, and laboratory studies have tested it on cancer cells, but these findings have not been shown to translate into benefits for people with cancer.
For example, one small study in Italy reported that people with melanoma who received interferon plus daily CoQ10 had fewer recurrences than those who received interferon alone, but the study had design limitations and its results have not been confirmed.
These are some of the ways researchers have looked at CoQ10, the immune system and cancer. Further research is needed.
Mitochondrial Health
CoQ10 is an essential electron carrier in the mitochondrial respiratory chain and an important antioxidant, which supports mitochondrial function and cellular energy. Many cancer treatments can damage the mitochondria, leading to increased free radical damage.
Studies suggest that CoQ10 may help protect normal tissues from free radical damage. For example, studies have looked at whether CoQ10 can reduce heart damage from the chemotherapy drug Adriamycin (doxorubicin), and the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes it may reduce that risk, although more research is needed.
Antioxidant Effects
As an antioxidant, CoQ10 helps protect cells from oxidative damage, which can harm DNA. Laboratory studies have tested CoQ10 on breast cancer cells and other cancer cells, but results in a dish do not show that it works in people.
Some researchers have asked whether CoQ10 could reduce side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, while some cancer experts caution that antioxidant supplements might interfere with these treatments. Further research is needed.
CoQ10 is generally considered safe, but discuss any potential use with a healthcare professional before beginning supplementation. Common side effects include nausea, headache, and dizziness, and the right amount depends on the individual's condition and other medications.
Side Effects
CoQ10 side effects are generally mild, but it is important to consider them before taking it. Generally, people experience mild digestive issues such as diarrhea, nausea, and heartburn. In rare cases, some people have experienced low blood pressure, skin rash, dizziness, and insomnia.
Laboratory and animal studies, as well as clinical trials, have also raised concerns about taking high amounts of CoQ10, including possibly decreasing the effectiveness of other cancer treatments. High amounts may also lead to heartburn, nausea, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, sensitivity to light, irritability, involuntary movements and mild diarrhea. Seek professional medical advice if any undesirable symptoms appear while taking CoQ10 supplements.
If you are considering CoQ10 during cancer treatment, consult your healthcare team first so that any side effects can be monitored. CoQ10 plays a normal role in cellular energy, but supplements have not been shown to improve cancer outcomes.
Some researchers have proposed that CoQ10's antioxidant effects could lessen the harmful effects of radiation therapy and chemotherapy. A few small studies in breast cancer patients reported benefits, but a randomized trial did not confirm them, and more randomized trials are needed.
Dosage
There is no recommended dose of CoQ10 for cancer. Amounts used in studies have varied widely. CoQ10 is most commonly taken in capsule form. In research, it has been studied as an adjunct to cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
In laboratory and animal studies, CoQ10 has been found to have antioxidant properties. Some reports have suggested benefits such as fewer treatment side effects, but these have not been confirmed in well-designed human trials. CoQ10 also supports normal mitochondrial function, but it has not been shown to reduce tumor growth in people. For these reasons, CoQ10 is not considered a cancer treatment.
Discuss any special considerations with a doctor or dietitian before taking CoQ10. CoQ10 can interact with certain medications, and side effects may include low blood pressure, headaches, and insomnia. CoQ10 is sometimes used in combination with other dietary supplements, so discuss potential interactions with your doctor.
Special Considerations
CoQ10 may interact with coumadin, and it might lower blood pressure, so people with very low blood pressure should be careful. It can also cause mild side effects such as stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. People with chronic conditions such as heart failure, liver problems, or diabetes should talk to their doctor before using this supplement. Certain drugs may increase or decrease the amount of CoQ10 in the body, so check with a doctor before taking any of these drugs. CoQ10 may also cause insomnia in some people, so some prefer to take it earlier in the day.
Most studies of CoQ10 in cancer have been conducted in laboratory settings. CoQ10 is not a cure for cancer and is not a substitute for any part of your treatment plan.
Talk to your doctor before taking CoQ10 to make sure it is safe for you. Your doctor can help you decide whether it fits with your treatment plan.
Summary
CoQ10's potential role as an adjuvant therapy in cancer care is mainly theoretical. Studies on fatigue and immune function have been small or inconclusive, and CoQ10 is not an established cancer treatment. Discuss the right form and amount of CoQ10 with a healthcare professional before beginning, since needs vary from person to person.
Researchers continue to study whether CoQ10 taken alongside conventional therapies affects quality of life, and further research is warranted. When considering CoQ10, consult a doctor or dietitian and monitor any side effects that may occur.
Until that research is done, CoQ10 should be seen as a supplement under study rather than a cancer treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does CoQ10 help with cancer?
CoQ10 has not been shown to treat or prevent cancer. Laboratory studies and a few small human studies have produced some preliminary findings, but well-designed clinical trials are needed before any conclusions can be drawn.
Is CoQ10 linked to cancer?
The National Cancer Institute states that there is not enough research evidence to make a determination of whether CoQ10 is linked to cancer. Although research is ongoing, currently it appears that CoQ10 is not conclusively linked to cancer.
How much CoQ10 should I take for cancer?
There is no recommended dose of CoQ10 for cancer, because it has not been shown to treat cancer. Research has explored whether it might protect the heart from some chemotherapy drugs, and it may reduce that risk. Amounts used in studies have varied widely, so any use during cancer care should be decided with your oncologist.
Who should not take CoQ10?
CoQ10 may interact with certain medications and medical treatments. People prescribed certain medications, or undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, should not take CoQ10 without consulting their healthcare provider.
Should cancer patients take CoQ10?
CoQ10 has not been proven to benefit people with cancer, and antioxidant supplements may interact with some cancer treatments. Therefore, cancer patients should speak with their doctor before taking CoQ10.
