Coenzyme Q in cardiovascular disease

Coenzyme Q10 or ubiquinone normally present in many plant and animal cells is an antioxidant. Coenzyme Q10 deficiency has been observed in patients with congestive heart failure, angina pectoris, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, hypertension, mitral valve prolapse and after coronary revascularization. Coenzyme Q10 is involved in the synthesis of ATP and hence is useful in preventing cellular damage during ischaemia-reperfusion injury. The clinical benefits are mainly due to its ability to improve energy production, antioxidant activity, and membrane stabilizing properties. Several studies showed that coenzyme Q could be useful in patients with congestive heart failure, angina pectoris, cardiomyopathy, coronary artery disease and in the preservation of myocardium. Coenzyme Q10 is normally present in the low density lipoprotein cholesterol fraction and inhibits its oxidation. It can also regenerate vitamin E. Coenzyme Q10 is known for producing minor gastrointestinal discomfort and elevation in SGOT and LDH when used.