Ubinol 60

Indications

Coenzyme Q10 (Ubidecarenone) is a nutritional supplement. It is used to correct low levels of coenzyme Q10, which can occur with ageing, some inherited mitochondrial disorders and long-term use of cholesterol medicines (statins). It is also taken as supportive therapy alongside standard treatment in heart failure, to help prevent migraine, and for muscle aches linked to statins, although the evidence for these uses is limited or mixed.

How It Works

Coenzyme Q10 is a natural substance found in almost every cell. It helps the mitochondria make energy from food, especially in the heart, muscles and brain, and acts as an antioxidant that protects cells from damage.

Dosage and Administration

Adults: commonly 30 mg to 200 mg a day, as one dose or split into two, or as directed on the product or by the doctor. Higher doses are used only on specialist advice, for example in mitochondrial disorders. Take it with a meal that contains some fat, as this helps absorption. Benefits may take several weeks to appear. It is not usually given to children unless a doctor advises.

Interactions

• It may reduce the effect of Warfarin; tell the doctor before starting or stopping it, as blood clotting tests may need checking.
• It may lower blood pressure slightly and add to the effect of blood pressure medicines.
• It may lower blood sugar slightly in people taking Insulin or other diabetes medicines; check sugar levels.
• People receiving cancer treatment should ask their specialist before using antioxidant supplements.

Contraindications

Allergy to coenzyme Q10 or any ingredient of the product (some capsules contain soya or other oils).

Side Effects

Usually well tolerated. Occasionally nausea, stomach upset, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, headache, dizziness, rash or difficulty sleeping, especially with higher doses taken late in the day.

Get urgent medical help if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips or throat, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash.

Pregnancy and Lactation

There is not enough information on safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Do not use it unless a doctor advises.

Precautions and Warnings

• It is a supplement and does not replace prescribed treatment for heart failure, high blood pressure or other conditions; do not stop any prescribed medicine.
• Tell the doctor you take it before surgery, and if you have low blood pressure, diabetes, or liver or kidney problems.
• If difficulty sleeping occurs, take it earlier in the day.

Overdose

Large amounts are unlikely to be dangerous but may cause stomach upset and diarrhoea. Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe or a child has swallowed a large amount.

Therapeutic Class

Nutritional supplement; antioxidant (vitamin-like substance).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.