Efficacy of coenzyme Q10 in supportive therapy of the cardiovascular diseases and in the prevention of cardiotoxicity caused by chemotherapy.

Cardiovascular diseases are the most common cause of death in Poland and in the world. People with cardiovascular disease or high cardiovascular risk require early detection and pharmacotherapy. New methods of prevention and treatment are needed. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an essential component of the human body. CoQ10 plays an important role in the biosynthesis of adenosine-5'-triphosphate (ATP) and has antioxidant activity. More and more evidence indicates that CoQ10 is closely related to cardiovascular disorders. Its supplementation may be beneficial in various chronic and acute disorders. Coenzyme Q10 used in heart failure reduces mortality and improves exercise capacity. CoQ10 can reduce the values of systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in hypertensive patients. CoQ10 supplementation prevents electrocardiographic (ECG) changes in patients taking doxorubicin and has a positive effect on heart function during anthracycline chemotherapy. The review article was based on available literature found in the Medline database and includes preclinical and clinical research. Further research related to CoQ10 can contribute to significant progress in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases but may also be the basis for increasing the range of indications for this drug.