Coenzyme Q10

Balancing Statins and Coenzyme Q10: Navigating the Health Conundrum

Statins are a common prescription for those with high cholesterol levels, but they come with a significant downside – the disruption of naturally occurring Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in the body. According to the Mayo Clinic, statins interfere with the production of mevalonic acid, which serves as a precursor to CoQ10, leading to a significant reduction in the body's CoQ10 levels [1,9]. But why is this cause for concern?

CoQ10 is not just another compound in our bodies; it is an essential player in maintaining our muscle strength, brain health, and combating life-threatening diseases such as cancer. This makes its depletion due to statin use a matter of serious concern. There is strong evidence, for instance, linking lipophilic statin use to myopathy, or muscle weakening, which can be corrected by CoQ10 supplementation [12]. Furthermore, Japanese research demonstrates that low serum levels of CoQ10 can increase the risk of dementia [10].

As we age, our bodies' CoQ10 levels naturally decline, particularly after the age of 50. Supplementation with CoQ10, alongside curcumin, has shown promising protective effects, as demonstrated by recent studies. In fact, the synergistic effect of CoQ10 and resveratrol has shown potential in reversing the early stages of dementia [2]. Research suggests that by taking 30-50 mg of CoQ10 daily, we can restore our body levels to those seen in our late twenties [2]. Therefore, anyone considering a statin regimen should consider CoQ10 supplementation, ideally starting at least two weeks prior to the statin course.

The importance of CoQ10 extends beyond the realm of dementia and muscle health; it is also a crucial player in cancer prevention and mitigation. As a powerful antioxidant, CoQ10 is pivotal for efficient mitochondrial action. Mitochondria, our cellular powerhouses, are integral to the functioning of high-energy tissues like muscles, the heart, and the brain. They also have a direct link to cancer progression.

Most cancer patients exhibit a marked decrease in serum CoQ10 levels, which can exacerbate the disease's progression. One study focusing on breast cancer demonstrated that women with low CoQ10 levels were more likely to experience advanced stages of the disease [11].

Despite their side effects, statins do play a crucial role in increasing survival times for certain cancer patients [3]. They reduce angiogenesis and restrict cancer cell migration. However, these benefits come with serious considerations. Statins have been shown to increase blood sugar levels and the risk of type-2 diabetes [4], prevent the synthesis of vitamin K2 leading to increased atherosclerosis and heart disease [5], and hasten the risk of myopathy and dementia [12,6].

Polypharmacy, the simultaneous use of multiple drugs, is increasingly becoming a concern. A notable portion of cancer patients also suffer from Metabolic Syndrome [7], leading to the administration of a cocktail of drugs that can interact and cause harm. Alarmingly, the dangers of polypharmacy, such as drug interaction, have resulted in a rising number of emergency hospital visits and deaths.

Statins, specifically lipophilic types like Atorvastatin, can adversely impact liver function, potentially escalating the risk in cancer patients or those on multiple medications. It is therefore vital for individuals considering statin therapy to regularly monitor their liver function and cholesterol levels.

While statins do have a positive effect on cancer survival times, they can be a double-edged sword due to the potential depletion of CoQ10. It is imperative for those considering statin use to understand the risks and benefits and to consider supplementing with CoQ10 to mitigate potential side effects.

This balance between modern medicine and our bodies' natural needs isn't a science yet, nor is it foolproof medical practice. It requires careful consideration, a personalized approach, and a readiness to supplement when necessary. It's about navigating the health conundrum intelligently and with the right resources in hand.

References:

1. Mayo Clinic - Can CoQ10 prevent statin side effects?

2. High dose Resveratrol may stabilise mild to moderate Alzheimer’s

3. Lipophilic statins can increase survival

4. Statins increase blood sugar and Type-2 Diabetes risk

5. Statins prevent synthesis of K2 which prevents plaque formation resulting in more atherosclerosis and heart disease

6. Statins cut CoQ10 levels and speed up risk of Dementia

7. Metabolic Syndrome

8. Taking Curcumin improves cognitive function

9. Meta-analysis - statins lower CoQ10 - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26192349/#affiliation-1

10. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30371340/