This is an oil based substance substance found in the power plants of the cells (mitochondria). Typical dosages range from 100 to 300 mg.
Coenzyme Q10 is not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of any medical condition.[5] It is sold as a dietary supplement. In the US supplements are not regulated as drugs but as foods. How CoQ10 is manufactured is not regulated and different batches and brands may vary significantly.[5]
A 2004 laboratory analysis by ConsumerLab.com found CoQ10 supplements on the market did not all contain the quantity identified on the product label. Amounts varied from "no detectable CoQ10" to 75% of stated dose up to a 75% excess. Tod Cooperman president of ConsumerLab.com stated, "When a patient can go from zero dose to 175% of dose just by switching brands, there is potential for a real problem..."[6]
Coenzyme Q10 is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, appetite suppression and stomachache), rash and headache.[7]