Bioavailability and Cellular Compatibility of a Novel Coenzyme Q₁₀ Emulgel as an Alternative Oral Delivery System for...

Coenzyme Q₁₀ (CoQ₁₀) plays a vital role in mitochondrial bioenergetics and functions as a potent endogenous antioxidant. Low CoQ₁₀ levels have been associated with various neurodegenerative, metabolic, muscular, and cardiovascular disorders. Early intervention with high-dose oral CoQ₁₀ (5-50 mg/kg/day) can mitigate disease progression and delay the onset of renal disease. We recently developed an emulgel matrix that facilitates the ingestion of high-dose, oil-dissolved CoQ₁₀ for patients with CoQ₁₀ deficiency and secondary dysphagia.

To evaluate the bioavailability and cellular compatibility of this novel CoQ₁₀ emulgel.

Two exploratory studies were conducted in healthy adults: a randomized cross-over single-dose trial (n = 6) and a 14-day repeated-dose trial (n = 12) comparing 1 g of CoQ₁₀ administered as emulgel (25 g serving) or solid capsules (2 × size-00). Plasma CoQ₁₀ concentrations were determined by validated HPLC-UV and pharmacokinetic parameters were analyzed using noncompartmental methods. Cellular compatibility was assessed in Vero cells.

The single-dose study in healthy adults demonstrated equivalent bioavailability of 1 g CoQ₁₀ administered via emulgel (25 g serving) and solid capsules (1 g CoQ₁₀ in two size-00 capsules). However, CoQ₁₀ in the emulgel exhibited faster and more efficient absorption. A 14-day repeated-dose study revealed significant higher plasma CoQ₁₀ concentrations with emulgel administration, potentially achieving therapeutic levels. A cellular compatibility assay confirmed the safety of the emulgel.

These findings indicate that the emulgel matrix does not compromise the bioavailability of oil-dissolved CoQ₁₀ and offers a promising, safe, and comfortable alternative for patients with dysphagia requiring long-term, high-dose CoQ₁₀ supplementation.