The One Supplement Doctors Often Forget to Prescribe with Statins

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If You’re Taking a Statin, You Should Be Taking CoQ10—and Here’s Why

Statins are among the most commonly prescribed medications in the U.S., used to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. While they can be lifesaving, they’re not without side effects—and one of the most overlooked is their impact on your body’s natural CoQ10 levels.

Here’s the breakdown:

What Is CoQ10?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a fat-soluble antioxidant that your body produces naturally. It plays a critical role in mitochondrial energy production—essentially helping your cells create energy, especially in high-demand organs like your heart and muscles (Bhagavan & Chopra, 2006). It also reduces oxidative stress and supports cardiovascular and cognitive health.

The Statin-CoQ10 Connection

Statins work by blocking HMG-CoA reductase, the enzyme responsible for cholesterol synthesis. But that same enzyme is also involved in the biosynthesis of CoQ10. As a result, statin therapy significantly reduces circulating CoQ10 levels—sometimes by as much as 40% (Mortensen, 2003; Marcoff & Thompson, 2007).

This reduction can contribute to side effects like fatigue, muscle pain (myopathy), and weakness—symptoms commonly reported by statin users (Banach et al., 2015).

Why Supplementing with CoQ10 Matters

Clinical studies have shown that CoQ10 supplementation may help mitigate muscle-related side effects in statin users. A 2018 meta-analysis found that CoQ10 significantly reduced statin-associated muscle symptoms compared to placebo (Qu et al., 2018).

CoQ10 supplementation may also:

• Improve mitochondrial function and overall energy production (Littarru & Tiano, 2007)

• Support cardiovascular performance and endothelial function (Lee et al., 2012)

• Reduce oxidative stress and inflammation

How Much Should You Take?

Most studies suggest a dosage of 100–200 mg daily, preferably in the ubiquinol form, which is more bioavailable than ubiquinone — especially in older adults or those with compromised absorption. Always speak with your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement regimen.

The Holistic Bottom Line

Medications can be powerful tools, but they’re rarely the full story. If you’re taking a statin, supporting your body with CoQ10 can help restore what’s lost, reduce side effects, and protect your heart and energy levels.

CoQ10 Supplements I Recommend:

• Life Extension Super Ubiquinol CoQ10 with Enhanced Mitochondrial Support, ubiquinol CoQ10, shilajit, potent heart health & cellular energy production support, ultra-absorbable, gluten-free, 60 softgel https://amzn.to/4j4wJQd

• Pure Encapsulations CoQ10 120 mg - Coenzyme Q10 Supplement for Heart Health, Energy, Antioxidants, Brain & Memory Health - Cellular Health, Cognition & Cardiovascular Support - 60 Capsules https://amzn.to/3SdC2Sx

References:

• Banach, M., Serban, C., Sahebkar, A., Mikhailidis, D. P., Ursoniu, S., Rysz, J., & Lipid and Blood Pressure Meta-analysis Collaboration (LBPMC) Group. (2015). Effects of coenzyme Q10 on statin-induced myopathy: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 90(1), 24–34. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mayocp.2014.08.021

• Bhagavan, H. N., & Chopra, R. K. (2006). Coenzyme Q10: absorption, tissue uptake, metabolism and pharmacokinetics. Free Radical Research, 40(5), 445–453. https://doi.org/10.1080/10715760600617843

• Lee, B. J., Tseng, Y. F., Yen, C. H., & Lin, P. T. (2012). Effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on inflammatory markers (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and homocysteine) and blood pressure in patients with coronary artery disease. Nutrition, 28(7–8), 767–772.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phrs.2017.01.032

• Littarru, G. P., & Tiano, L. (2007). Bioenergetic and antioxidant properties of coenzyme Q10: recent developments. Molecular Biotechnology, 37(1), 31–37. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02820375

• Marcoff, L., & Thompson, P. D. (2007). The role of coenzyme Q10 in statin-associated myopathy: a systematic review. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 49(23), 2231–2237. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2007.02.049

• Mortensen, S. A. (2003). Perspectives on therapy of cardiovascular diseases with coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone). Clinical Investigator, 71(8 Suppl), S116–S123.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your licensed healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are taking prescription medications such as statins. While I am a Registered Nurse and certified Holistic Health Coach, I am not acting in the capacity of your personal healthcare provider. The use of CoQ10 should be individualized and discussed with your medical team.