CoenzymeQ10 resides in the fatty portions of the mitochondrial membrane where it acts as a potent antioxidant - reactivating vitamin E and sparing the destruction of beta carotene.

Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) plays an important role in proper function of the mitochondrial electron transport system (ETS). The ETS is responsible for the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the molecular source of energy that is used by the cell during cellular respiration. The ETS becomes overworked during times of excessive or hypermetabolic conditions, especially during times of wasting syndrome due to the body's increased need for ATP.

But for every molecule of ATP formed, free radicals are generated, too. If the necessary antioxidants are available (glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutases), there is no problem. But, as we’ve seen, these diminish or are overwhelmed by the generation of free radicals. CoQ10 is part of the process of passing electrons along that help to form new ATP.

CoQ10 operates in the inner membrane of a cellular organ called the mitochondria (see diagram). Mitochondria produce ATP, which is essential for life; they may be damaged by long term use of nukes. Whether CoQ10will offset this, we don't know but many clinical studies have been done which show a value for helping with cardiomyopathy (although improvements in heart rhythms may take several weeks of use).

Research has shown that as cellular levels of coenzyme Q10 decrease, HIV disease progresses.

Other studies have documented its immune restorative qualities, including restoration of T cell function. Absorption of dietary fat-soluble coenzyme Q10, due to the high inflammatory cytokine levels, is disrupted, so supplementation may help.

Many PWHIV believe CoQ10 is an important nutrient to aid in detoxification if one uses nucleoside analogues (AZT ddI, ddC, d4T, etc.) or any toxic drug.

Due to this impaired absorption, it’s best to take a form of CoQ10 that is mixed with lecithin or some other fat to improve its uptake. However, it may be that only very high doses will help (like 200-400 mg a day!) This won’t be cheap.

CoQ10 is very helpful in conjunction with certain drugs. Studies have shown clear benefit when used with a heart toxic chemotherapy drug called adriamycin.

In addition, some have suggested that it is very important to use CoQ10 when taking one of the statin drugs, used to manage high LDL cholesterol since the level of CoQ10 in the blood is depleted when using this class of drugs. How well it works or what benefit CoQ10 may have in the context of HIV disease has not yet been clinically evaluated. (How many times do we have to write that??? These studies need to be done!!!)