Coenzyme Q10 for migraine

Coenzyme Q10 is found inside the body’s cells. It is key to cell’s proper functioning. Coenzyme Q10, also called CoQ10, can reduce damage to cells caused by the environment and other factors.

Coenzyme Q10 is similar to a vitamin and is needed inside of each of the body’s cells for the cells to produce energy.

Some prescription drugs can lower the body’s Coenzyme Q10 levels.

There have been studies that have shown low levels of CoQ10 in people with cardiac failure. Other studies have shown some evidence that CoQ10 supplements help prevent and treat migraines.

Sources of Coenzyme Q10

• Soybean oil
• Canola oil
• Chicken
• Herring
• Mackerel
• Beef
• Roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, pistachio nuts
• Broccoli
• Cauliflower
• Orange
• Strawberries
• Boiled egg

Studies on Coenzyme Q10 and Migraines

There aren’t many large studies that show strong evidence regarding Coenzyme Q10 and migraines.

A small study found that out of 31 patients who suffer from migraines, 19 of them reported the number of days they had migraines cut in half. Another small study of 42 migraine sufferers compared Coenzyme Q10 to an inactive placebo. In that study, of CoQ10 and migraine, the supplement was three times more likely than placebo to reduce the number of migraines.

A larger study of 1,550 patients ages 3 to 22 with migraine measured their Coenzyme Q10 levels. Of those migraine sufferers, 33 percent had low levels of CoQ10. Those with low levels received Coenzyme Q10 supplements and had fewer migraines.

Formulations available

• Capsules
• Soft gels
• Chewable tablets
• Sublingual tablets that dissolve under the tongue
• Losenges
• Chewable wafers
• Powder
• Squeeze packs—similar to pudding
• Drops
• Skin cream
• Skin mask
• Oral spray

Side effects and other precautions

Side effects may include:

• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Loss of appetite
• Itching
• Rash
• Insomnia
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Irritability
• Sensitivity to light
• Fatigue
• Flu-like symptoms

If you notice any of these side effects continue or get worse, you should contact your doctor immediately.

Liquid forms of Coenzyme Q10 may contain sugar and/or alcohol. Therefore, people with liver disease, diabetes and alcohol dependence should consult a doctor first.

Who should not take Coenzyme Q10

Coenzyme Q10 may interact with other medications or supplements. You should consult your doctor before taking Coenzyme Q10 if you take any of the following:

Daunorubicin, doxorubicin, timolol, blood pressure medicines, blood thinners, cholesterol medicines and tricyclic antidepressants.

Before taking CoQ10, speak to your doctor if you have allergies, heart disease, hypoglycemia, diabetes, bleeding disorders, low blood pressure, liver disease or if you take any drugs or supplements that impact blood sugar. Blood sugar levels may need to be monitored because CoQ10 may lower blood sugar.

Women who are pregnant, may become pregnant or who are breastfeeding should not take Coenzyme Q10.

People taking CoQ10 supplements are advised not to engage in vigorous exercise.

As always, the best source for advice on treating your migraines is your own migraine specialist. These descriptions of natural remedies are provided only for informational purposes. You should begin no medication or supplement without first checking with your physician. Again, this information should in no way substitute or be mistaken for medical advice.

Written by: Otesa Miles / Reviewed by: John-Claude Krusz, PhD, MD | Last review date: November 2010. Click the References Link below for a complete list of references.

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