No effect of combined coenzyme Q10 and selenium supplementation on atorvastatin-induced myopathy

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible effects of Q10 and selenium supplementation on statin-induced myopathy (SIM), both for subjective symptoms and muscle function.

Patients (N = 43) who had experienced previous or ongoing SIM on atorvastatin therapy were recruited. Following a 6-week washout period during which no statins were administered, the patients were re-challenged with 10 mg of atorvastatin. Patients (N = 41) who experienced SIM continued the atorvastatin treatment and were in addition randomized to receive 12 weeks supplement of 400 mg Q10 and 200 μg selenium per day or a matching double placebo. SIM was assessed using 3 validated symptom questionnaires, and a muscle function test was performed at the beginning and at the end of the study.

The patients receiving the active supplement experienced significant increases in their serum Q10 and selenium concentrations compared with the group receiving placebo. No statistically significant differences in symptom questionnaire scores or muscle function tests were revealed between the groups.

Despite substantial increases in the serum Q10 and selenium levels following the oral supplementation, this study revealed no significant effects on SIM compared with the placebo.