Coenzyme q10 liquid supplementation in dyslipidemic subjects with statin-related clinical symptoms: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study

INTRODUCTION: Statin-associated myalgia occurs in about 1–3% of patients in the medical literature. Plasma CoQ10 levels are reduced in patients undergoing statin. OBJECTIVE: The primary outcome was the detection of clinical symptoms and the perception of pain evaluated throughout specific questionnaires. The secondary outcome was the variation in lipid profile and the variation in safety parameters. METHODS: We enrolled 60 Caucasian patients, intolerant to statins. During the run-in period, patients underwent a 1-month wash-out period during which statins were stopped. At the end of the wash-out period, if CPK and/or transaminases returned within an acceptable range, statins were re-introduced at half of the previously taken dose. After one month, patients were randomized to take either a liquid CoQ10 supplement or a placebo for three months at 100 mg/day. RESULTS: The Clinical Index Score for myalgia assessment was lower after 3 months with CoQ10, while it did not change with the placebo. The VAS score was lower after 3 months of CoQ10 supplementation, while no variation was recorded with the placebo. In the group treated with the dietary supplement, CoQ10 plasma concentrations were inversely correlated with CPK levels, Clinical Index Score absolute values, and VAS. CONCLUSION: The addition of CoQ10 with half dosage statin in patients with previous intolerance to statins improves the perception of clinical symptoms such as asthenia, myalgia or pain.