Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) also known as ubiquinone, is a naturally occurring nutrient in the human body.
Commonly found in the human mitochondria, high levels of CoQ10 mostly exist in organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.
CoQ10 is important for energy, immunity, and acts as a lipid antioxidant to prevent free radicals and oxidative damage to cells.
With age, the production of CoQ10 can decrease substantially. Supplementation of CoQ10 may be beneficial in the elderly or those with certain medical conditions.
CoQ10 in supplemental form or conjunction with other therapies has shown potential to prevent/ treat medical conditions such as heart diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, mitochondrial conditions, Parkinson’s disease, etc. (1).
CoQ10 supplements available in the form of powders, liquids, soft gels capsules, etc. can be bought online without a prescription. Listed here are our top 6 choices of CoQ10 supplements. Explore and choose the product that fits your needs the best.
Our Top Picks
1. Best Potency – Essential Elements CoQ10
2. Best Vegan – Transparent Labs RawSeries CoQ10
3. Best Soft Gels – LiveWell Labs CoQWell
4. Best Powder – BulkSupplements Coenzyme Q10
5. Best Absorption – Qunol Ultra CoQ10
6. Best Budget – Doctor’s Best High Absorption CoQ10
Now let’s look at each of these CoQ10 supplements in detail to find out why they are considered the best in their categories.
1. Best Potency – Essential Elements CoQ10
Potency in a CoQ10 supplement refers to the strength of the ingredients used to obtain the desired results. Sometimes, apart from the main ingredient, added nutrients can increase the effectiveness of a supplement.
About Essential Elements CoQ10
Essential Elements CoQ10 is a popular supplement with a combination of nutrients that promote cellular energy production, support healthy heart functions, and help maintain a strong immune system.
The use of a patented formula with potent doses of CoQ10 and vitamins in a rice bran oil-base provides added potency and absorption. This effective combination helps fight free radical damage to reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Essential Elements makes its CoQ10 in its FDA approved, GMP compliant, NSF-certified facilities in Lindon, Utah. This supplement is made using non-GMO ingredients and is free from gluten, soy, and dairy.
What it Contains:
Each serving of 1 softgel contains:
- Coenzyme Q10 – 200 mg
- Vitamin A (as Beta Carotene) – 2000 IU
- Vitamin E – 200 IU
- Total Calories – 3.10
- Total Fat – 222.83 mg
- Saturated Fat – 40.23 mg
- Trans Fat – 0 mg
- Unsaturated Fat – 182.59 mg
- Monounsaturated Fat – 96.46 mg
- Polyunsaturated Fat – 86.13 mg
Essential Elements CoQ10 is available as a container of 60 softgel capsules that serves as a two month supply. This product can also be purchased in larger quantities with exciting discounts.
The recommended dosage is one softgel once daily, to be consumed with food for natural health benefits. A practitioner’s advice for appropriate dosage is advisable if it is intended for a particular medical condition.
Essential Elements do not use any fillers, artificial ingredients, added sugars, or preservatives in the manufacture of its CoQ10 supplement. The company also offers a 365-day money-back guarantee for added customer satisfaction.
The Pros:
- A highly potent dose of 200 mg CoQ10 in every serving
- Added vitamin A and E for antioxidant benefits
- Free from gluten, fillers, and preservatives
- 365-day money-back guarantee
Summary: Essential Elements CoQ10 is a supplement with potent doses of vital antioxidants for the healthy functioning of vital organs. Free from gluten and preservatives, this product enhances immune support naturally.
2. Best Vegan – Transparent Labs Raw Series CoQ10
Vegan products are fast gaining popularity even in the supplement industry. Vegan supplements do not use any animal-based ingredients such as gelatin, which makes it highly suitable for vegan consumption.
About Transparent Labs RawSeries CoQ10
Transparent Labs RawSeries CoQ10 is a top-class vegan supplement that provides adequate doses of natural CoQ10 to help enhance energy production and immune support.
A clean option from this reputed supplement brand provides for powerful antioxidant support that helps fight free radicals and oxidative damage to protect against various diseases.
Manufactured in the USA with non-GMO ingredients, Transparent Labs RawSeries CoQ10 is gluten-free and is third-party tested for quality and efficiency.
What it Contains:
Each serving size of 1 capsule holds:
- Coenzyme Q10 – 100 mg
Available in a container of 120 capsules, this supplement is designed to provide up to 120 servings depending upon the use or condition for which it is required. Users can get more savings on multiple purchases of this product.
The recommended dosage is 1 or 2 capsules daily with food for viable health benefits. The capsules are vegetable-based, easy-to-swallow, and suitable for use by vegans and vegetarians.
Transparent Labs RawSeries CoQ10 does not contain any artificial colors, sweeteners, preservatives, or fillers. This supplement contains only one potent ingredient that can boost energy production in cells and enhance immunity for overall well being.
The Pros:
- Single potent ingredient
- Veggie capsules suitable for vegans and vegetarians
- No artificial colors, sweeteners, or preservatives
- Third-party tested
Summary: Transparent Labs RawSeries CoQ10 is a supplement ideal for vegetarians and vegans. With CoQ10 as the only ingredient, this product is free of artificial ingredients and quality-tested by third parties.
3. Best Soft Gels – LiveWell Labs CoQWell
Softgels, a common form of CoQ10 supplements, is mainly used when the ingredient is in liquid form. Gelatin is used as the outer covering as it is more resilient, 100% soluble once consumed, and allows easy assimilation of CoQ10 for maximum effect.
About LiveWell Labs CoQWell
LiveWell Labs CoQWell is a natural supplement that withholds a potent formulation of Coenzyme Q10 and vital nutrients that helps maintain high energy levels and support healthy heart and brain functions.
The increased bioavailability obtained through a patented CoQ10 oil-based formulation helps bridge deficiencies in the body’s CoQ10 levels and promotes a stronger immune system for overall health.
LiveWell Labs is a USA-based company headquartered in Burbank, California, with distribution centers in Burbank and Utah. It makes its CoQWell supplement in a GMP compliant facility that is third-party verified.
What it Contains:
Every serving of one softgel provides:
- Coenzyme Q10 – 100 mg
- Vitamin A (as Beta Carotene) – 2334 IU
- Vitamin E – 100 IU
- Total Calories – 3.66
- Total Fat – 285.63 mg
- Saturated Fat – 51.45 mg
- Trans Fat – 0 mg
CoQWell is available in a double sealed bottled pack of 60 softgels that can be used as a two month supply. More can be bought in a single purchase for discounted rates.
The manufacturer recommends just one softgel a day, taken anytime with a full glass of water for overall benefits or as recommended by a practitioner.
LiveWell Labs CoQWell contains 100% non-GMO ingredients and is free from gluten, dairy, preservatives, fillers, or harmful additives. Accompanied by a 365-day money-back guarantee, this product provides adequate support for lasting immunity.
The Pros:
- Combo of CoQ10, A, and E vitamins for greater health benefits
- Softgel capsules for faster disintegration and absorption
- Can be taken at anytime
- Last as a two-month supply
Summary: LiveWell Labs CoQWell with an oil-based formulation of CoQ10 and essential nutrients uses softgels for faster absorption and provides maximum antioxidant support for heart, brain health, and immunity.
4. Best Powder – BulkSupplements Coenzyme Q10
Powder supplements work best for people who find it difficult to swallow pills or tablets. A quality powder supplement dissolves easily in water or liquids, leaves no chalky residues, and is more beneficial owing to direct absorption into the system.
About BulkSupplements Coenzyme Q10
BulkSupplements is a unique powder supplement that is loaded with Coenzyme Q10 to provide fortified immunity, support cardiovascular health and enable energetic brain functions.
The product is made via a fermentation process and uses Rhodobacter sphaeroides, a type of bacteria that has been proven by studies for viable CoQ10 production (2).
BulkSupplements is a prominent name in the supplement industry. They source the raw material for their Coenzyme Q10 from China which is subject to various tests for quality and purity at their FDA registered, cGMP compliant facility in the USA.
What it Contains:
Each serving size of 200 milligrams has:
- Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone) – 200 mg
BulkSupplements Coenzyme Q10 is available as a pack of 10 grams or 0.35 oz. It is also available in larger-sized powder packs and as softgels for buyer’s convenience. Though the powder form is vegan, the softgels contain gelatin.
As a dietary supplement, you can take between 50 gm (1/32 tsp) to 200 gm (1/ tsp) depending on the requirement. The unflavored, easily dissolvable powder can be mixed in oil or oil-based dishes for better absorption. Some users also suggest mixing in soups, curries, or smoothies for desired results.
As a quality supplement, BulkSupplements Coenzyme Q10 does not contain any additives or added sugars for taste. Verified by third-party lab testing, it is also free from gluten, yeast, dairy, and soy making it a worthy supplement for easy and safe consumption.
The Pros:
- Highly-potent 200 mg of CoQ10 per serving
- Made using Rhodobacter sphaeroides bacterium
- No additives or added sugars
- Verified by third-party lab testing
Summary: BulkSupplements Coenzyme Q10 is an effective powder supplement free of additives, gluten, and sugars. With high potency and absorbency, it aids in vital organ functions and health for stronger immunity.
5. Best Absorption – Qunol Ultra CoQ10
Maximum absorption of an ingredient is a vital factor in choosing supplements. The formulation, process used, how well it can be assimilated by the body is the key for best absorption in a supplement.
About Qunol Ultra CoQ10
Qunol Ultra CoQ10 is a natural supplement fortified with CoQ10 and vitamin E for delivering antioxidant benefits that can protect the body from various diseases.
This unique supplement has a patent formulation with high solubility in both fat and water that claims to provide 3 times maximized absorption than other brands.
Qunol Ultra CoQ10 is manufactured and packaged in cGMP compliant facilities in the USA using domestic and imported ingredients. It contains soy but is gluten-free.
What it Contains:
Each serving of one softgel consists of:
- Calories – 7
- Vitamin E (as dl-alpha tocopheryl acetate) – 6 mg
- Coenzyme Q10 – 100 mg
Qunol Ultra CoQ10 is available as a pack of 120 softgels and can last for up to 4 months depending on use.
The recommended dosage is just one softgel daily for general well being or as advised by a health practitioner.
Qunol Ultra CoQ10 just contains powerful antioxidant ingredients for good energy and strengthened immunity. It is free from major allergens including egg, shellfish, fish, milk, wheat, tree nuts, and peanuts that adds additional safety in consumption.
The Pros:
- Combination of CoQ10 and vitamin E for proven antioxidant effects
- 100% fat and water solubility enables 3-times higher absorption
- Made in cGMP certified facilities in the USA
- Free from all major allergens except soy
Summary: Qunol Ultra CoQ10 is a supplement that provides 3-times higher absorption owing to its solubility in both fat and water. Free from most major allergens this product provides good antioxidant effects for overall immunity.
6. Best Budget – Doctor’s Best High Absorption CoQ10
Dietary CoQ10 supplements are plenty, with numerous brands offering products at low-cost prices. A dietary supplement that is pocket-friendly and yet does not compromise on quality and potency is what makes it fit into the best budget category.
About Doctor’s Best High Absorption CoQ10
Doctor’s Best High Absorption CoQ10 is a top-ranking supplement that delivers potent doses of naturally fermented CoQ10 to replace depleted levels of this nutrient in the body that may occur due to aging, use of statin drugs, or other medical conditions.
Fortified with BioPerine® piperine, a black pepper patented extract that is known to increase the bioavailability of nutrients, this supplement ensures the efficient absorption of CoQ10 for overall health (3).
Made in the USA, Doctor’s Best High Absorption CoQ10 is manufactured in cGMP-certified facilities and undergoes intensive testing right from raw-materials to finished products to assure quality to the consumer.
What it Contains:
Each serving of one softgel offer:
- Coenzyme Q10 (Ubiquinone – 100 mg
- Black Pepper Ext. (Piper nigrum) (Fruit) – 5 mg
(standardized to contain 95% Piperine)(BioPerine®)
Available as a container of 120 softgels, this product can serve as a 4-month supply which is certainly value for money.
The recommended dosage is one softgel a day with meals to ensure maximum absorption or as recommended by your doctor.
Doctor’s Best High Absorption CoQ10 contains pure, natural ingredients and does not contain gluten. Time-tested for quality, this product lasts for months and bestows immense health benefits at a highly affordable price.
The Pros:
- Only CoQ10 with added Bioperine® for absorption
- Budget-friendly price
- One container provides a 4-month supply
- Gluten-free
Summary: Doctor’s Best High Absorption CoQ10 with added piperine ensures enhanced absorption for good health. Free from gluten, this product is pocket-friendly, lasts for 4 months which is good value for your money.
Dosage for CoQ10 Supplements
CoQ10 can be obtained through food including oily fish, organ meats (heart, liver), some vegetable oils, spinach, cauliflower, orange, strawberry, legumes, and whole grains (4).
Since CoQ10 is fat-soluble, it is advantageous to consume supplements with fatty foods or meals for maximum absorption and efficiency (5).
According to studies, CoQ10 supplements in ubiquinol form may have higher bioavailability than ubiquinone (6).
Dosage for CoQ10 is normally dependent on the overall need or the medical condition for it may be prescribed by a practitioner. Studies have shown that several diseases have been identified as possibilities of CoQ10 deficiency and oral supplementation can help improve such conditions (7).
Typical dosages may vary from 30 to 200 mg a day and the highest safe intake has been estimated to be at 1200 mg/ day in scientific studies (8).
Oral supplements generally provide 100 mg or 200 mg of CoQ10 which is deemed quite safe. But to get maximum benefits, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a practitioner for a suitable dosage.
Summary: Coenzyme Q10 can be obtained through foods as well as oral supplements. Depending on the requirement, CoQ10 supplementation can vary. It is beneficial to take supplements with food to maximize absorption.
Risks and Side Effects of Taking CoQ10 Supplements
CoQ10 is a natural substance and the human body does require it to maintain organ health, energy, and immunity. Oral supplements are beneficial and generally considered safe.
But taking CoQ10 in supplement form may involve certain risks or side effects which are given below (9).
- Mild or occasional side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, stomach upsets, vomiting have been reported from the consumption of CoQ10 supplements.
- Dizziness, heartburn, fatigue, or photophobia can occur in very rare cases.
- Doses above 100 mg may cause insomnia in some individuals
- Clinical studies have not established the effect of CoQ10 supplementation for patients with kidney or liver disease. Hence, people with such conditions should avoid these supplements.
- CoQ10 can reduce blood sugar and hence diabetics should avoid or exercise caution in using these supplements to avoid hypoglycemia.
- Pregnant, nursing, women, and children should steer clear of CoQ10 supplements as no studies are available for such people.
- CoQ10 has been known to interact with certain drugs. Individuals who are under chemotherapy, or have been prescribed blood thinners, antiplatelet, antidepressants, antihypertensive drugs should seek a practitioner’s advice before using CoQ10 supplements (10).
Summary: CoQ10 is generally safe with minimal or rare adverse effects. People taking high doses, prescribed medications, pregnant women, and those with kidney or liver disease need to consult a doctor to avoid risks or side effects from CoQ supplementation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is CoQ10 Essential for our Body?
Much like certain amino acids, CoQ10 can be termed as a ‘conditionally essential’ nutrient that helps in the production of enzymes to create and regulate ATP (adenosine triphosphate) for cellular energy. Its antioxidant nature helps fight free-radical damage, oxidative stress, and boosts immunity in the body.
Vital organs such as the heart, lungs, liver, etc. demand high-energy levels for healthy functioning which would not be possible without adequate CoQ10 levels. Hence, CoQ10 is also vital for optimal cardiovascular, brain, and other organ health (11).
Which is the Ideal Form of a CoQ10 supplement?
Coenzyme Q10 is present as both ubiquinone (oxidized form) and ubiquinol (reduced form) in the human body. The human body converts ubiquinone to ubiquinol and then uses it to support metabolic functions.
Though both forms can be considered for supplementation, studies show that taking ubiquinol as supplements makes it easier for assimilation especially when it is taken to bridge age-related deficiency (12).
Who Can Take CoQ10 Supplements?
People aged 40 and above would benefit most from taking a supplement as natural CoQ10 levels tend to decrease with age.
Individuals using cholesterol-lowering statins or with certain medical conditions such as heart disease, mitochondrial disorders, hypertension, etc. will benefit through CoQ10 supplementation duly recommended by a medical practitioner.
What is the Best Time to Take CoQ10 Supplements?
CoQ10 supplements can be taken at any time of the day with food. Divided doses of CoQ10, when taken with food, may be more beneficial, as it enables full absorption and minimizes any stomach discomfort that may arise with a single large dose.
Also, it is best not to consume these supplements at night-time. Studies have indicated that CoQ10 has the potential to induce insomnia in some cases which may occur due to increased amounts of energy.
The Final Note
Coenzyme Q10 is a natural nutrient produced and used by the body to sustain energy circulation, maintain vital organ functioning, and promote immunity in the body. The deficiency of CoQ10 may occur due to age, medications, stress, etc.
Though CoQ10 can be obtained through specific kinds of food, oral supplements work better to bridge deficiencies quickly and help protect or slow the progress of various diseases.
Softgels, capsules, and powder supplements are effective choices available in different categories to serve a variety of users. Check with a doctor before using CoQ10 supplements for dosage, suitability, drug interactions, or specific medical conditions to avoid adverse effects.
Using CoQ10 supplements that have great quality, maximized absorption, and suitable dosage may work to benefit a lifetime of wellness!