Ubidecarenone was initially identified in 1940 and later isolated in 1957 by Dr. Frederick Crane from beef heart, with its chemical structure elucidated the following year by Dr. Karl Folkers. Commonly known as Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), it is a naturally occurring, fat-soluble compound found in all human cells, primarily located in the mitochondria. It plays a crucial role in cellular energy production by serving as a key cofactor in the electron transport chain. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant, shielding cells from damage caused by free radicals and lipid peroxidation.
BRAND NAMES
Commonly available CoQ10 supplements include Qunol, CoQmax, ActiveQ, Ultra CoQ10, QH-absorb, and Acanda Bio-Av-CoQ10. A typical recommended daily dose ranges from 100 to 200 mg.
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Ubidecarenone, has two primary mechanisms of action: acting as a crucial electron carrier in cellular energy production and as a powerful antioxidant. It functions mainly as an essential part of the mitochondrial electron transport chain and also serves as a potent antioxidant. In the mitochondria, its oxidized form, ubiquinone, accepts electrons from other complexes and transfers them to generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body's main energy source. Additionally, in its reduced form, ubiquinol, it acts as a potent antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals to prevent cellular damage caused by oxidative stress. This dual role in both energy production and cellular protection makes ubidecarenone crucial for cellular health, particularly in high-energy organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.
PHARMACOKINETICS
Absorption
Ubidecarenone (CoQ10) has poor and slow absorption on its own, but this improves significantly when taken with a meal that contains fat or oil, due to its fat-soluble nature. The presence of dietary fat helps in micellisation, where bile creates small structures that transport CoQ10 to the intestinal cells for absorption.
Distribution
Preclinical studies involving intravenous administration of Ubidecarenone have reported a volume of distribution of 20.4 L/kg.
Metabolism
Ubidecarenone (Coenzyme Q10) metabolism primarily involves its use in the electron transport chain for cellular energy production (ATP) and as a potent antioxidant to scavenge free radicals and regenerate other antioxidants like vitamin E. After its function, it is reduced to hydroquinone, which can be recycled or metabolized into Q acid I and II, with primary elimination occurring via bile and feces, and some metabolites excreted in urine. Absorption is enhanced by taking it with a fat-containing meal.
Excretion
Mainly via bile, with >60% excreted unchanged in faeces.
PHARMACODYNAMICS
Ubidecarenone, also known as Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), is a powerful antioxidant and a vital cofactor in cellular energy production. Its pharmacodynamics revolve around two primary mechanisms: its role in the mitochondrial electron transport chain and its action as a potent antioxidant.
ADMINISTRATION
Ubidecarenone, also known as Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), is administered orally as a capsule, softgel, or tablet and should be taken with food for best absorption. Dosages can vary greatly depending on the specific condition being addressed.
DOSAGE AND STRENGTH
Ubidecarenone (Coenzyme Q10) is available in several dosage forms, both for oral consumption and topical application. The specific formulation can affect its absorption, with soft gel capsules often designed to improve bioavailability. 10mg tablets; capsules containing 20mg, 30mg, 50mg, and 100mg.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Ubidecarenone, or Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), has several notable drug interactions, particularly with medications affecting blood clotting, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Due to its chemical similarity to vitamin K, CoQ10 can dangerously reduce the effectiveness of blood thinners like warfarin, increasing the risk of clots. It may also cause an additive effect with blood pressure medications, potentially leading to abnormally low blood pressure.
FOOD INTERACTIONS
To best absorb the fat-soluble supplement ubidecarenone (Coenzyme Q10), it should be taken with food, ideally a meal high in fat. Healthy fat sources like fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and avocados can enhance its absorption. Ubidecarenone is naturally found in a variety of foods, including organ meats, whole grains, and vegetables. While there are no foods known to interfere with its absorption, it is important to be aware of potential interactions with certain medications, including blood thinners and some blood pressure drugs.
CONNTRAINDICATIONS
Ubidecarenone (Coenzyme Q10) has contraindications related to its effect on blood pressure, blood glucose, and its interaction with certain medications. Use is also restricted in certain populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those with specific medical conditions.
SIDE EFFECTS
Stomach and digestive issues.
Headaches and dizziness.
Fatigue and trouble sleeping.
Skin reactions.
Low blood pressure.
Liver enzyme elevation.
Allergic reactions.
OVER DOSE
The following are common side effects from taking more than the recommended dose of ubidecarenone:
Gastrointestinal issues.
Headaches and dizziness.
Low blood pressure.
Allergic reactions.
Elevated liver enzymes.
Insomnia.
TOXICITY
Ubidecarenone (Coenzyme Q10) has low toxicity and is generally safe, with mild side effects primarily involving the gastrointestinal system. Toxicity from overdose is unlikely, and studies have shown safety at high doses.
