Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsWhat Is CoQ10?Side EffectsDosageWarnings and Interactions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
What Is CoQ10?
Side Effects
Dosage
Warnings and Interactions
Coenzyme Q10, also known as CoQ10, is one of a number of non-drug nutritional supplements found to be effective in preventing migraines. As with other “natural” migraine preventives (such as riboflavin), CoQ10 is considerably less likely to cause side effects than prescription drugs. That is one of the reasons for its growing popularity among people with frequentmigraine headaches.
This article discusses CoQ10, its effectiveness for migraines, as well as potential side effects and precautions to consider.
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Coenzyme Q10 is a compound that is found in mitochondria—the tiny organelles that exist in nearly every cell from which food combines with oxygen to create energy. In fact, mitochondria are often referred to as “the powerhouses of cells.”
When these tiny structures don’t function properly, nearly every system in the body can be affected. Mitochondrial problems are linked to a variety of diseases and conditions.
It is thought that CoQ10 hasantioxidant propertiesthat may thwart oxidative stress in the brains of people with migraines—especially those with severe variants (such ashemiplegic migraine)or who have metabolic abnormalities (such asdiabetesormetabolic syndrome) that make them vulnerable tomigraine triggers.
Because these metabolic imbalances take place not only during migraine attacks but also may exist inbetweenthem, supplementation with CoQ10 may stabilize imbalances, potentially preventingmigraines.
An Overview of Mitochondrial Disease
Can CoQ10 Prevent Migraines?
Only a few studies have looked at coenzyme Q10 as a migraine prophylactic (preventive measure).
However, another systematic review and meta-analysis concluded there is insufficient evidence to determine if coenzyme Q10 is effective for migraine prophylaxis in adults. It stated that high-quality, large randomized control trials are needed to fully evaluate the efficacy and safety.
Several studies suggest CoQ10 may be beneficial in preventing episodic migraines (occurring in fewer than 15 days per month).
Verywell / Gary Ferster
Side Effects of CoQ10
One thing that makes CoQ10 supplementation attractive to people with migraines is that reported side effects have been mild.
People may experience one or more of these side effects:
Talk to your healthcare provider if symptoms continue or are bothersome.
What Dosage of CoQ10 Should You Take
Per the AHS/AAN guidelines for the prevention of migraines, the recommended dosage of CoQ10 is 100 mg taken three times per day.
Coenzyme Q10 can also be derived from food sources, including oily fish (such as salmon and tuna), organ meats (such as liver), and whole grains.However, it would be difficult to get the recommended therapeutic amounts from food sources alone.
How to Choose a SupplementIn the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products (such as the U.S. Pharmacopeia, Consumer Labs, or NSF) and consult a healthcare provider,registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
How to Choose a Supplement
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products (such as the U.S. Pharmacopeia, Consumer Labs, or NSF) and consult a healthcare provider,registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
There are few medications known to potentially interact with coenzyme Q10 supplements. They include:
Advise your healthcare provider if you take these or any other medications before trying coenzyme Q10 to prevent migraine headaches.
Coenzyme Q10 has not been established as safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.So if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or are breastfeeding, it is best not to take this supplement just to be safe.
Summary
If you have episodic migraine headaches, taking coenzyme Q10 supplements might be a natural and effective way to reduce the frequency of headaches, and possibly prevent them. Side effects are minimal, especially compared to drugs. Before taking CoQ10 or any supplements, talk to your healthcare provider to ensure you can take them safely based on your health needs.
Managing Your Migraines Naturally
18 Sources
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