Does CoQ10 Help Migraine?

What is CoQ10?

Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a compound that your body produces naturally. It plays a crucial role in energy production at the cellular level, particularly in the mitochondria—earning it the name the "powerhouse" of our cells. It helps your mitochondria convert food into usable energy. Backing these claims is a 2011 study which noted in part;

t is an effective antioxidant both on its own and in fusion with vitamin E and is fundamental in powering the body's energy production ATP cycle. CoQ10 is found throughout the body in cell membranes, especially in the mitochondrial membranes. - Rajiv Saini.

Beyond that, according to a 2022 study by Saulo Victor e Silva, et al., CoQ10 acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by oxidative stress. Right in its opening, the study notes;

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant enzymes. Compounds with antioxidant properties, such as coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), can reduce cellular imbalance caused by an increase in ROS.

Natural Sources of CoQ10

According to a 2010 study, you can boost your body’s CoQ10 levels through several food sources. Here are some foods rich in Coenzyme Q10:

• Organ meats: Foods like liver, kidney, and heart are among the richest sources of CoQ10.
• Fatty fish: Salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna contain beneficial amounts of CoQ10.
• Meat: Beef, pork, and chicken offer moderate levels of CoQ10, especially in muscle tissue.
• Nuts and seeds: Pistachios, peanuts, and sesame seeds are plant-based options with notable CoQ10 content.
• Vegetables: Certain vegetables, such as broccoli and spinach, provide small but valuable amounts.
• Soy products: Tofu, soybeans, and soy milk also contribute to dietary CoQ10 intake.

While these foods help increase CoQ10 levels naturally, they often don’t provide enough to address deficiencies, particularly in cases tied to migraines. This is the point where we recommend supplementation.

Why CoQ10 Levels Might Be Low in People with Migraines

Research suggests that people suffering from migraines might have reduced CoQ10 levels. For instance, a 2011 study investigating the action of CoQ10 on subjects with migraine noted the following;

CoQ10 usage reduced the frequency of migraine headache compared with the control group…CoQ10 appears to have beneficial effects in reducing duration and frequency of migraine attack. - Suhairul Sazali, et al.

This could be due to dysfunction in mitochondrial energy production, a factor often associated with migraines. When the brain doesn’t get the energy it needs, it becomes more susceptible to triggers that can result in headaches. By supplementing with CoQ10, the study subjects noted improvements in migraine frequency and severity.

CoQ10 and Migraine

The connection between Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and migraines is rooted in how this compound supports cellular energy production and combats oxidative stress—both of which may play a role in migraine development.

Migraines are often linked to mitochondrial dysfunction, where the brain struggles to produce the energy it needs. A 2023 study, for instance, paints an even clearer picture. It notes;

Mitochondrial damage in any part of the brain may lead to mitochondrial energy deficiency, while migraine is a response to brain energy deficiency or oxidative stress levels exceeding antioxidant capacity. - Yicheng Wang, et al.

How CoQ10 May Help Reduce Migraines

Research has shown that CoQ10 supplementation could significantly reduce the frequency of migraine attacks. For example, a 2017 study found that individuals taking 100 mg of CoQ10 three times daily experienced fewer headache days per month compared to those not supplementing.

Interestingly, CoQ10's benefits extend beyond just frequency—it’s also been reported to lessen the severity and duration of attacks.

Additionally, CoQ10 may be even more effective when combined with other supplements like magnesium and riboflavin, both of which are known to support brain health and energy metabolism. A 2022 review investigating the combined supplementation of Coenzyme Q10 and other nutrients confirmed the same. Quoting a previous study, it notes;

A total of 130 adults with migraine also significantly reduced the pain intensity with the supplementation with CoQ10, riboflavin, and magnesium in an RCT from Gaul et al. - Torsak Tippairote, et al.

Dr. Sean Ormond

Dr. Sean Ormond, a dual board-certified expert in Anesthesiology and Interventional Pain Management at Atlas Pain Specialists, explains that CoQ10 primarily serves as a preventive measure for migraines. He states:

CoQ10 helps stabilize your body’s systems to lower the likelihood of migraines occurring in the first place. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have much to offer during an active migraine attack. For those moments, you’ll need something designed for immediate relief, like triptans, over-the-counter pain relievers, or even certain prescription medications. CoQ10 is more about laying a solid foundation so you hopefully don’t get as many migraines to begin with.

How to Take CoQ10

Recommended Dosage for Migraine Prevention and Treatment

A daily dose of 100 to 300 mg is commonly used for migraine prevention. Studies have shown that a dose of 150 mg per day can significantly reduce migraine frequency and severity over time. You could also benefit from higher doses, but you’ll want to speak with your doctor first.

The Best Time to Take CoQ10

CoQ10 is fat-soluble, meaning it’s best absorbed when taken with meals containing healthy fats. For optimal absorption, consider taking it during breakfast or lunch. Since CoQ10 can sometimes cause mild stimulation, it’s generally better to take it in the morning or early afternoon rather than at night, especially if you are sensitive to sleep disturbances.

That said, some people report no sleep issues and may prefer a later dose. Timing, therefore, can be adjusted based on personal preference and tolerability.

Potential Side Effects of CoQ10 Supplements

CoQ10 is well-tolerated by most people, but mild side effects may occur. These include:

• Upset stomach or nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Headaches
• Fatigue or dizziness

To minimize side effects, start with a lower dose and gradually increase it as your body adjusts. Serious side effects are rare, but if symptoms persist or worsen, please stop using the supplement and consult a doctor.

READ MORE - How Much Dose Recommended for Men and Women

CoQ10 and Other Medications

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is generally safe, but it can interact with certain medications. These interactions may change the effectiveness of your medication or the supplement. So, you’ll do well to consult your doctor before use.

Potential Interactions with Medications

• Blood-thinning medications like warfarin (Coumadin) or clopidogrel (Plavix) may become less effective when combined with CoQ10, increasing the risk of blood clots.
• Blood pressure medications: CoQ10 may work with some antihypertensive drugs by further lowering blood pressure. This may not work for everyone, though. It may increase the risk of blood pressure dropping too low.
• Cholesterol-lowering statins can deplete the body’s natural CoQ10 levels. Supplementing may help, but professional guidance is important to avoid complications.
• Chemotherapy drugs: The antioxidant properties of CoQ10 might interfere with the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy treatments. Oncology specialists often advise patients to avoid CoQ10 during active cancer treatment unless explicitly approved.
• Beta-blockers and other heart medications: CoQ10 may slightly alter how these drugs function in certain cases. For example, it has shown potential to reduce heart-related side effects of medications like timolol or metoprolol without reducing their effectiveness.

If you’re considering Coenzyme Q10 for migraine prevention or managing other health concerns, always share your full medication list with your doctor. This is especially critical when determining the right CoQ10 migraine dosage or addressing specific health needs.

CoQ10 and Diet

A balanced diet plays an essential role in supporting health and managing conditions like migraines. Incorporating foods rich in Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and considering specific dietary needs can make all the difference in the world.

If you’re exploring Coenzyme Q10 for migraine prevention, here are some suggestions:

• Include magnesium-rich foods like spinach, avocados, and almonds. Magnesium paired with CoQ10 is perfect for migraine prevention, as magnesium supports brain function and reduces migraine triggers.
• Stay hydrated. Dehydration is a common trigger for migraines, so ensure ample water intake throughout the day.
• Limit processed foods. Preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and nitrates in processed foods can trigger migraines in sensitive individuals.
• Balance omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Do more fatty fish or flaxseeds to boost omega-3, which may counteract inflammatory triggers linked to migraines.

A healthcare provider can also guide you on the best CoQ10 supplement for migraines and the appropriate CoQ10 migraine dosage.