Effectiveness of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation for Reducing Fatigue: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a popular nutritional supplement, an antioxidant and an essential component of the mitochondrial electron transport chain. Several clinical studies have suggested that fatigue can be reduced by antioxidant supplementation. However, the data on this topic has been sparse to date. Hence, we conducted this meta-analysis with the aim of investigating the effectiveness of fatigue reduction via CoQ10 supplementation. More specifically, we searched electronic databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published from the database inception to January 2022. A random effects model was implemented to conduct the meta-analysis among 13 RCTs (with a total of 1,126 participants). As compared with the placebo groups evaluated in each RCT, the CoQ10 group showed a statistically significant reduction in fatigue scores (Hedges’ g = −0.398, 95% confidence interval = −0.641 to −0.155, p = 0.001). The directions of the treatment effects were consistent between the healthy and diseased participants. Compared with the placebo group, the effect of reducing fatigue was statistically significant in the subgroup using the CoQ10-only formulation but not in the subgroup using CoQ10 compounds. The results of our meta-regression demonstrate that increases in the daily dose (coefficient = −0.0017 per mg, p < 0.001) and treatment duration (coefficient = −0.0042 per day, p = 0.007) of CoQ10 supplementation were correlated with greater fatigue reduction. There was only one adverse (gastrointestinal) event in the 602 participants who underwent the CoQ10 intervention. Based on the results of this meta-analysis, we conclude that CoQ10 is an effective and safe supplement for reducing fatigue symptoms.Systematic Review Registration:https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2022-1-0113/, identifier INPLASY202210113

Effect of ubiquinol on cardiorespiratory fitness during high-altitude acclimatization and de-acclimatization in healthy adults: the Shigatse CARdiorespiratory fitness study design

“…In addition, studies demonstrated that CoQ10 deficiency was positively associated with fatigue, whereas serum CoQ10 levels were inversely correlated with fatigue severity ( 46 , 47 ). In addition, another meta-regression also confirmed that a daily dose of CoQ10 was associated with fatigue reduction ( 48 ). Therefore, we suppose that ubiquinol supplementation at high altitudes may alleviate AMS and HADAS-related symptoms and maintain cardiorespiratory fitness.…”

Management of Fatigue in Adult Survivors of Cancer: ASCO–Society for Integrative Oncology Guideline Update

“…Although the study was adequately powered, no significant differences were detected between the CoQ10 and placebo arms at 24 weeks for scores on the Profile of Mood States Fatigue Subscale ( P = .257) or the FACIT-F tool ( P = .965). Fatigue examined at 24 weeks is adequate to see a clinical response from CoQ10 and the 300 mg total dose is on the upper end used to treat other health conditions, 156 although some studies have used as high as 600 mg/day. All would imply that CoQ10 is not an effective treatment for cancer fatigue.…”

Coenzyme Q10: A Ubiquitous Supplemental Enzyme Contributing to the Health

“…Research has indicated that CoQ10 has demonstrated efficacy in mitigating fatigue, particularly among those afflicted with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) (46). CFS is a burdensome medical illness distinguished by the presence of continuous exhaustion that does not ameliorate with periods of rest.…”