CoQ10 and Statin Drugs

Monday, October 16th 2006

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It is well known that statin drugs, used to reduce cholesterol, seriously deplete the body of Coenzyme Q10, a nutrient that is not only heart protective but also important for breast cancer protection in women. Researchers believe women on long term use of statin medications may have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

Thousands of New Zealanders as millions of people worldwide take statin drugs to reduce cholesterol. All of the statins, Lipitor, Zocor, Mevacor, Pravachol, Lovacol, etc., inhibit CoQ10 production in the body (and transport, it is believed by some researchers, including Dr. Bliznakov) and thus are a threat to good health in general and to heart health in particular.

According to Emile G. Bliznakov, MD and CoQ10 researcher, "I unearthed an important aspect of this story within two statin patents. Two U.S. patents were granted to Merck (the Pharmaceutical Company) in 1990 describing a method for counteracting the statin-associated myopathy and potential nerve damage caused by statins. The method described was the addition of CoQ10 to compensate for the reduced production of CoQ10 caused by the statins. Thus the manufacturer implicated the serious side effects of statins and the protective role played by CoQ10 in preventing these statin side-effects. The manufacturer has not disseminated this data, which seriously incriminates them."

CoQ10 and breast cancer

A deficiency of coenzyme Q10 has been described in aging, cancer and when statin cholesterol-lowering drugs are employed. [J Am Coll Nutr 20: 591-98, 2001]

For example, CoQ10 levels in tissues of breast cancer patients are significantly decreased compared to surrounding tissues. [Clin Biochem 33: 279-84, 2000]. Breast cancer patients are more likely to exhibit low CoQ10 levels than healthy people. [Biochem Biophys Rres Commun 234: 296-99, 1997].

The provision of supplemental CoQ10 (390mg) to breast cancer patients has been shown to induce complete regression in some cases. [Biochem Biophys Res Comm 199: 1504-08, 1994; 212: 172-77, 1995]. Though only a small group study, the provision of an array of antioxidant supplements including coenzyme Q10 to high risk breast cancer patients has been demonstrated to be beneficial in reducing mortality, spread of cancer and providing better quality of life. [Mol Aspects Med 15: 231-40S, 1994].

Reproduced unabridged from the October - December 2006 issue of Health and Herbal News, with the kind permission of Health and Herbs International Ltd.

The following products are all useful for Cancer:

Astra Forte
Apricot Kernels
Carotenoid Complex
Cell Food
Coenzyme Q10 100mg
CoQ10 Plus
Co-Q Max
Enzogenol with ACE and Selenium
Pomegranate

Related health information can be found here:

Angina
Blood Pressure (High)
Blood Pressure (Low)
Cancer
Cholesterol
Co-enzyme Q10 is of fundamental importance for cellular
energetics
Co-Q Max to assist with cardiovascular and immune health
Immunity
Nutrient use for specific cancers

Related articles can be found here:

CoQ10 and Heart Health

Multis Improve Heart Health

New Advances With CoQ10

The winter warming herb for circulation and the heart - Cayenne

Year round healthy circulation with Garlicin HC

If you need help or advice, you are welcome to email our naturopathic team with your health question.

Disclaimer: The health information presented here has been written for the New Zealand health consumer. It is of a general nature and is only intended to provide a summary of the subjects covered. The information is not intended to be comprehensive or to provide medical advice to you. While all care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, no responsibility or liability is accepted, and no person should act in reliance on any statement contained in the information provided. All health ailments should be treated by a qualified health professional.

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