Characterization and bioavailability of a novel coenzyme Q₁₀ nanoemulsion used as an infant formula supplement

Supplementation with Coenzyme Q₁₀ (CoQ₁₀), in patients with its deficiency, has greater odds of success if the treatment is carried out early with an appropriate formulation. For neonatal CoQ₁₀ deficiency, infant formula supplementation could be an attractive option. However, solid CoQ₁₀ cannot be solubilized or dispersed in milk matrix leading to an inefficient CoQ₁₀ dosage and poor intestinal absorption. We developed and characterized a high-dose CoQ₁₀ oil-in-water (O/W) nanoemulsion suitable to supplement infant formula without modifying its organoleptic characteristics. CoQ₁₀ powder and soy lecithin were solubilized in an oil phase consisted of Labrasol® and Labrafac^TM. The aqueous phase was Tween 80, TPGS, methylparaben and propylparaben. O/W nanoemulsion was prepared by adding dropwise the oil phase to the aqueous phase under stirring to a final concentration of CoQ₁₀ 9.5 % w/w followed by ultrasonic homogenization. Pharmacotechnical parameters were determined. This formulation resulted to be easily to be dispersed in milk matrix, stable for at least 90 days, with no cytotoxicity in in vitro assays, and higher bioavailability than CoQ₁₀ powder. CoQ₁₀ nanoemulsion supplementation in the infant formula facilitates the individualized administration for the child with accurate dosage, overcome swallowing difficulties and in turn could increase the treatment adherence and efficacy.