Atorvastatin (Lipitor) decreases Coenzyme Q10 levels

A study entitled: “Atorvastatin decreases the coenzyme Q10 level in the blood of patients at risk for cardiovascular disease and stroke” was published in June of 2004 in ARCH NEUROL / VOL 61, June 2004 page 889. The study concluded that even brief exposure to atorvastatin causes a marked decrease in blood CoQ10 concentration explaining the most commonly reported adverse effects of statins, especially exercise intolerance and muscle pain. The authors of the paper include: Rundek T, Naini A, Sacco R, Coates K, DiMauro S. from the Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York, NY 10032, USA.

Lipitor® is the trademarked brand name of atorvastatin calcium. Lipitor® is a registered trademark of Pfizer, Inc.

Epic4health note: Prescription statin drugs, (including Lipitor®), do a terrific job lowering cholesterol however, all statins can block the synthesis of Coenzyme Q10 in the body which may lead to sub-optimal CoQ10 levels which could then lead to a number of physical problems the most common being muscle aches and weakness so supplementation with Q-Gel Coenzyme Q10 is a prudent approach when undergoing "statin" therapy.

Dosage of CoQ10 depends on many different factors. We are NOT doctors so really can not advise any particular individual in this area. However, we can let you know what some of the MD's who buy from us tell their patients on a statin drug -- they suggest 60 to 100mg Q-Gel CoQ10 per day. If you are on a statin drug, you may wish to discuss this issue with your local health care professional.