I've heard that statins impair natural CoQ10 production, which can potentially cause side effects like muscle cramps. If I'm not experiencing any of these conditions while on statins, do I really need to supplement with CoQ10™

Statins reduce cholesterol effectively, but not selectively. The biosynthetic pathway of cholesterol is shared by other important compounds including Coenzyme Q10, so the drugs that inhibit cholesterol synthesis (statins) also inhibit the body?s production of CoQ10. Studies show a correlation between low levels of CoQ10 and some demonstrated side effects of statin use. According to conservative Physician?s Desk Reference (PDR) estimates, between 0.5 percent and 2.3 percent of statin users may experience side effects. That may sound small but it means that as many as 500,000 people in the United States alone may suffer side effects.

Reported adverse effects of long-term statin use related to CoQ10 levels include:

• Muscle pain, weakness and tenderness.
• Mild memory loss.
• Tingling, numbness in extremities.

Although even mild side effects may not surface after taking statins for several months, some reports suggest that they often become apparent over time and as the doses increase. Taking CoQ10 with statins may help to protect against these side effects, while also providing antioxidant benefits.

Research has shown that the pre-converted ubiquinol form (Kaneka QHTM) raises CoQ10 plasma levels more efficiently than the oxidized ubiquinone form, particularly in those over 40.

As always, consult your physician to see which form might be right for you.