Coq10 and Statins Don't Mix

What is the nature of the relationship between coq10 and statins? Recent research suggests that Coenzyme Q10 and statins like cholesterol-lowering Lipitor are not a good combination. The human body produces its own antioxidant coenzyme q10 in plentiful fashion while we are young, with highest concentrations in the heart. But as we age, the body's supply of coq10 begins to dwindle, leaving us susceptible to the ravages of time and assault by diseases. Adding insult to injury, many doctors prescribe statin drugs to their patients to help reduce cholesterol. But these drugs interfere with the body's production of coq10 to make us even more vulnerable to free radical damage that can lead to disease or even to death. More common problems center on brain, heart, and muscle degeneration.

Some researchers now believe that middle-aged people ought to supplement their own coq10 supply by taking a supplement. Japanese people were taking a supplement for coq10 long before Westerners became aware of the problem. Now that we know about the potential negative fallout of coq10 and statins use, it is important to determine whether a supplement is needed, and if so, what type?

While some manufacturers produce warning labels on statin drugs to let people know that they may deplete coq10 levels and thus possibly lead to problems like muscle wasting and memory loss, other medical practitioners continue to prescribe statins without providing warnings to their patients about the possible problems associated with statin use and its effect on coq10. Furthermore, many physicians do not recommend a coq10 supplement to repair the damage caused by taking statin drugs. It's up to the patient to find out more about the threat to personal health from taking certain medications that may impair other bodily functions.

If your doctor recommends that you take a statin for cholesterol or other problems, you may want to consider asking him or her about a coq10 supplement. This can help to replace the antioxidant enzyme that will be lost when you take statin drugs. There are also natural ways of doing the job that statins perform, so ask your doctor if you can try one of these instead before making the jump to this powerful medication. Possible side effects of a coq10 supplement include decreased appetite, nausea, and loose bowels.

Even though coq10 is produced naturally in the body, coq10 and statins use may lead to the loss of the former. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more detailed information on this important supplement. You also may want to read up on the subject in a health magazine or an online Website that features objective information. Even though coq10 is a natural substance in the body, taking a supplement can be challenging since it is always hard for humans to accurately reproduce natural substances in supplement form. If your doctor agrees with your idea of a coq10 supplement, ask for suggestions as to the best manufacturer or supplier of this strategic element rather than shop at random for this important product.