From the Guidelines
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) should not be used in patients with malignancy (cancer) as its effectiveness in treating cancer-related fatigue has not been proven and it may interfere with certain chemotherapy or radiation treatments. The use of CoQ10 in cancer patients has been studied, and according to a 2020 study published in the Annals of Oncology 1, it has turned out to be ineffective in randomized controlled trials. This study recommends against the use of dietary supplements, such as L-carnitine and CoQ10, for the treatment of cancer-related fatigue. Some key points to consider when evaluating the use of CoQ10 in cancer patients include:
- The lack of evidence supporting its effectiveness in treating cancer-related fatigue
- The potential for CoQ10 to interfere with certain chemotherapy or radiation treatments
- The availability of other evidence-based treatments for cancer-related fatigue, such as physical exercise and psychosocial interventions
- The importance of disclosing any supplement use, including CoQ10, to the patient's oncologist before starting it. Overall, while CoQ10 may have a good safety profile with minimal side effects, its use in cancer patients is not recommended due to the lack of evidence supporting its effectiveness and the potential for interference with other treatments.
From the Research
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in Cancer Treatment
- CoQ10 is a natural nutrient with complex biological functions beyond mitochondrial respiration, and its use as a supplement has been recommended for cancer patients due to its potential anti-cancer effects 2.
- Some studies suggest that CoQ10 may help reduce the toxicity of cancer treatments, such as cardiotoxicity or liver toxicity, although the results are not conclusive 3.
- CoQ10 has been shown to scavenge free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and minimize tissue damage, which may help protect the body from damage caused by chemotherapy drugs 2.
Clinical Trials and Studies
- A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that oral CoQ10 supplementation did not improve self-reported fatigue or quality of life in newly diagnosed breast cancer patients 4.
- Another study suggested that CoQ10 may be a useful supplement to pharmacotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma, although further research is needed to confirm this 2.
- A review of the literature found that CoQ10 may have a role in the prevention and treatment of cancers, although more research is needed to standardize its use 5.
Patient Use and Documentation
- A study found that 18% of cancer patients used CoQ10 as an alternative therapy, although there was no documentation for its use as an antineoplastic agent or as an adjunct to antineoplastic therapy at the time 6.
- The use of CoQ10 in cancer patients may be more frequent in women and in patients with recurrent disease 6.