Co-enzyme Q-10 increases mitochondrial energy production in cells possibly through down-regulating the level of nitric oxide. It has been touted for use in patient’s with cardiac disease to improve cell function. I have had a few clients try this in dogs and cats with heart disease. Unfortunately, I did not see any improvement in these patients. Recently I came across a study that demonstrated CoQ10 might help diabetic patients with heart disease based on research in mice but the investigators recommended further investigation.
Beside heart disease, Co-enzyme Q-10 has been reported to improve gingivitis in humans although I haven’t had any experience with this. I know that some veterinarians are recommending this nutraceutical for canine cognitive dysfunction although there are no scientific studies yet to back up this use. I did find one study that showed Co-enzyme Q-10 protected against cognitive impairments and hippocampal neuronal degeneration caused by organophosphates.
Sources:
-Binukumar, B.K., et. al., “Protective efficacy of co-enzyme Q-10 against DDVP-induced cognitive impairments and neurodegeneration in rats.” Neutox Res. May 2012;21(4): 345-57.
-Huymh,K. et. al., “Coenzyme Q10 attenuates diastolic dysfunction, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and cardiac fibrosis in the db/db mouse model of type 2 diabetes” Diabetologica May 2012;55(5):1544-53.
-Jung, Hynn-Joo, et. al., “Evaluation of anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activity of coenzyme Q(10) in experimental animals.” J. Pharm Pharmocol. October 2009;61(10):1391-5.
-Warren, E. ‘Nutraceuticals’ The VSPN notebook, 4/4/2007.