Blood pressure lowering efficacy of coenzyme Q10 for primary hypertension

Ho MJ, Bellusci A, Wright JM

Summary

Coenzyme Q10 for hypertension

Coenzyme Q10 has been studied as a potential treatment for hypertension, a common medical condition. However, there is not enough reliable evidence to show whether or not it can be a useful medication to lower blood pressure. A systematic review was conducted to try and use all available data to answer this question. Databases of clinical trials were searched for any studies that tested the effects of coenzyme Q10 on patients' blood pressure compared to a placebo. The test medications could be added to participants' regular anti-hypertensive medications or be used alone. Three trials with a total of 96 participants were found in which coenzyme Q10 was used in patients with high blood pressure. The patients took coenzyme Q10 or a placebo daily for up to 8-12 weeks. Weighted data analysis showed that the systolic blood pressure was reduced by 11 mmHg and the diastolic blood pressure was lowered by 7 mmHg compared to placebo. However, there are questions about the reliability of the available studies. Therefore, it is still uncertain if coenzyme Q10 could be a useful hypertension treatment, and more studies are needed.