A randomized, double-blind trial on the bioavailability of two CoQ10 formulations

The bioavailability of a single, 100 mg, dose of reduced Coenzyme Q10 (CoQH-CF) and Coenzyme Q10 formulation was compared in individuals of >60 years. Significantly higher (P < 0.001) plasma concentrations were demonstrated for the CoQH-CF formulation at 5, 6, 8, 12, 24, 48 and 72 h post-dose compared to the CoQ10 formulation. The area under the curve (AUC) of reduced and total Coenzyme Q10 was significantly higher (P < 0.001) in subjects administered CoQH-CF resulting in 4.3-fold higher plasma AUC0–72 h (430% increase) in subjects receiving CoQH-CF compared to subjects receiving Coenzyme Q10. Oxidized Coenzyme Q10 in plasma was higher (P < 0.001) in subjects receiving CoQH-CF compared to subjects receiving Coenzyme Q10 resulting in a 3.3-fold higher plasma AUC0–72 h (329% increase). Total CoQ10 reached maximum plasma concentrations 15.5 ± 19.6 h after supplementation with CoQH-CF and 26.5 ± 25.8 h after supplementation with Coenzyme Q10, respectively. Thus, reduced Coenzyme Q10 liquid soft gel formulation was found to be superior to the commercial formulation of Coenzyme Q10 for bioavailability.