Antioxidants Part 1 Focus and Energy: Can CoQ10 Bridge the Gap in ADHD Treatment?
- Sara L
- Jun 3, 2024
- 4 min read
CoQ10, also known as coenzyme Q10 exists in 2 forms, ubiquinol and ubiquinone. It is a fat-soluble, vitamin-like compound that plays a crucial role in the body's energy production.. In fact it is responsible for 95% of the energy produced for the body¹. It also acts as a potent antioxidant. It is naturally present in every cell of the human body and also plays a part producing energy in tiny energy producing factories of every cell called mitochondria.
The difference between the two forms of CoQ10, ubiquinol and ubiquinone is that ubiquinol is thought to be the superior form as it is easier for the body to absorb it from the gut ²is able to get into the brain more easily and is more effective at combating oxidative stress than ubiquinone³.
In addition to its role making energy, CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals and from inflammation⁴. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can damage cells. CoQ10 neutralizes free radicals preventing them from causing oxidative stress and damaging cells. It also helps regenerate other antioxidants, such as vitamin E, which the body needs⁵. CoQ10 also plays a role in increasing resistance against infections and improves immune function overall⁹.
Normally our bodies can make its own CoQ10, but if there are problems in the genes (the instruction manuals held in every cell), as seen in ADHD, then not enough CoQ10 enzyme will be produced.
That means that in children with ADHD, compared to their neurotypical friends, they are not making enough of this antioxidant and in research studies, the blood levels of CoQ10 in children with ADHD is much lower than in the blood levels of neurotypical children⁶.
Therefore in children with ADHD, their bodies are much less able to to combat the oxidative stress happening in their bodies, contributing to the development of their symptoms.
In 2022 a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the safety and efficacy of CoQ10 as an add-on treatment to atomoxetine (aka Strattera, a non-stimulant medication for ADHD) in children aged 6-16 years with ADHD who were non-responders to atomoxetine alone.
The study found that the addition of CoQ10 to atomoxetine significantly improved ADHD symptoms, particularly hyperactivity, impulsivity, and learning difficulties, compared to the placebo group (the group who did not receive the CoQ10). The CoQ10 group showed a 33.87% improvement in the Conners Parent Rating Scale total score, while the placebo group showed an 18.24% improvement⁷,⁸.
So how does CoQ10 help in ADHD?
The benefits of CoQ10 in helping with ADHD symptoms are thought to be related to its antioxidant properties⁸,⁷. Oxidative stress has been implicated in the development of ADHD symptoms.
As CoQ10, is a potent antioxidant, it may help reduce oxidative damage and improve symptoms. Additionally, CoQ10 plays an important role in mitochondrial energy production, which is essential for proper brain function. Deficiencies in CoQ10 levels may contribute to neurological and cognitive impairments associated with ADHD.
Are there any adverse effects to CoQ10?
No, it is generally well tolerated. For every 100 people taking a dose of 30mg per day, 1 person may experience tummy upset⁹.
When is the best time to take it?
Take it with a meal that contains some fat as this helps it be better absorbed, so whether that is peanut butter, or something dairy or animal based.
What is the best form to take it in?
The best form to take it in is as an oil either as a liquid or as a soft gel cap.
Drug interactions include Beta blockers, chemotherapy drugs, Gemfibrozil, Gentamicin, statins, NRTIs and warfarin. So check with your child's primary care provider if you child is taking any of the above as CoQ10 might interfere with these medications⁹.
What dose is best for ADHD?
As CoQ10 is not approved by the FDA to treat any medical conditions it is not FDA approved, so dosing is not available on their website¹¹
However, in their book, Godbout Laake and Compart (2013) recommend the below dosages based on age:
Age | Dose (mg) | Total daily dose from all sources |
2-5 years old | 25 to 50 | 25 to 50 |
6-10 years old | 50 to 75 | 50 to 75 |
11years and older | 100 | 100 |
CoQ10 is considered safe and no toxic dose has been identified though it is always wise to consult with your child's healthcare provider when considering higher dosages.
Conclusions:
CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant and can help supplement the antioxidants that children with ADHD are naturally lacking.
CoQ10 can be helpful in ADHD at reducing symptoms especially when taken with a non stimulant medication
The best form of CoQ10 to take is ubiquinol for its bioavailability.
This site is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the giving of medical advice. The contents do not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services. No provider–patient relationship is formed. Please consult with your child's healthcare provider when considering supplementation for children.
⁹ Gaby, A. R., MD. (2024) Nutritional Medicine. Fritz Perlberg Publishing. 3rd Ed.
¹⁰ Godbout Laake, D. & Compart, P. J. MD (2013) The ADHD and Autism Nutritional Supplement Handbook. Fair Winds Press. To purchase on Amazon click here.
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