From the Research
Ubiquinone (Coenzyme Q10) has been shown to have mild anti-platelet effects, which may be beneficial in reducing the risk of thrombotic complications, although the effect is generally not clinically significant for most people. The most recent and highest quality study on this topic is from 2017, which found that ubiquinol (reduced coenzyme Q10) supplementation improved endothelial function and decreased monocyte expression of prothrombotic and proinflammatory mediators in patients with antiphospholipid syndrome 1. This study suggests that CoQ10 may inhibit platelet aggregation by affecting thromboxane synthesis and reducing oxidative stress in platelets.
Some key points to consider:
- The anti-platelet effect of CoQ10 is considerably weaker than medications specifically designed for this purpose, such as aspirin or clopidogrel.
- For most individuals taking standard supplemental doses (typically 100-200 mg daily), this effect is unlikely to cause bleeding concerns.
- However, patients already on anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications should exercise caution and consult with their healthcare provider before starting CoQ10 supplements, as there is a theoretical risk of enhanced bleeding when combined with these medications.
- The mechanism behind CoQ10's anti-platelet properties relates to its antioxidant function and role in the electron transport chain, which may influence platelet reactivity through multiple pathways including nitric oxide production and calcium signaling in platelets.
Other studies have also investigated the anti-platelet effects of CoQ10, including a 1997 study that found that CoQ10 supplementation altered platelet size and inhibited human vitronectin (CD51/CD61) receptor expression 2, 3. However, these studies are older and of lower quality than the 2017 study, and therefore should not be considered as the primary evidence for CoQ10's anti-platelet effects.
In terms of the potential benefits and risks of CoQ10 supplementation, it is essential to weigh the possible anti-platelet effects against the potential risks of bleeding, particularly in patients already taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications. Overall, the current evidence suggests that CoQ10 supplementation may be a safe and potentially beneficial adjunct to standard therapies in certain patient populations, such as those with antiphospholipid syndrome.