Coenzyme Q10, when taken in supplement form, is generally administered through the mouth by a tablet or capsule. It can also be given by injection through an IV.
There have been no reported serious side effects from the use of Q10, though some patients experienced some of the following symptoms in low to moderate levels:
Mild insomnia
Elevated levels of liver enzymes
Rashes
Nausea
Upper abdominal pain
Dizziness
Visual sensitivity to light
Irritability
Headache
Heartburn
Fatigue
Be sure to speak with your health care provider about any other medications you may be taking before beginning treatment with Q10. Certain drugs have been known to reduce the effects of Coenzyme Q10. Q10 can also alter the body’s response to warfarin and insulin.
Q10 can be found from a number of manufacturers and is marketed as a dietary supplement. As such, it is regulated as a food and not a drug, meaning evaluation and approval from the FDA is not required for Q10. As dietary supplements are not formally evaluated, there can be and is variation in its composition between distributors and even between batches.