Advice
Product overview
Mode of action
Co-enzyme Q10 (also known as ubiquinone or ubidecarenone) is a fat-soluble compound primarily synthesised by the body and also consumed in the diet. It is involved in the process of energy production by mitochondria and functions as an antioxidant in cell membranes and lipoproteins.
Regulatory status
Co-enzyme Q10 has no licensed indications as a medicine in the UK.
In line with the guidance from the General Medical Council (GMC) on prescribing unlicensed medicines, the prescriber should take full responsibility for determining the needs of the patient and whether using co-enzyme Q10 is suitable. Supporting information and advice is also available from the GMC.
Dosing information
The BNF for children (BNFc) provides dosing information on the use of co-enzyme Q10 for mitochondrial disorders. The BNFc recommends an initial dose of 5 mg once or twice daily for both neonates and children aged 1 month to 18 years. The dose should be adjusted according to response. The BNFc recommends that up to 200 mg daily may be required for neonates and up to 300 mg daily may be required for children aged 1 month to 18 years.