II. Background
- Fat-soluble, Vitamin-like quinone
- Endogenous compound used in Energy Metabolism
- Highest concentrations in heart, brain, liver, Kidney
- Activity
- Central to electron transfer in ATP production
- Antioxidant scavenger
- Decreases Calcium overload
- Protective against ischemia in CHF
III. Indications: Neurologic
- Parkinsonism (360-1200 mg PO daily)
- Migraine Headaches (150-300 mg PO daily)
IV. Indications: Cardiovascular (50-200 mg/day)
- Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) - unclear benefit
- Hypertension - insufficient evidence
- Coronary Artery Disease - experimental
V. Indications: Miscellaneous
- Diabetes Mellitus (100-200 mg/day) - unclear benefit
VI. Adverse effects
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Potential risk of Hypoglycemia, Hypotension
VII. Disadvantages
- Expensive: (1200 mg/day costs $300/month)