Statins and supplementation - High Cholesterol Message Board

flowergirl2day · 04-28-2009, 08:55 PM

I am wondering if anyone here has been using both CoQ10 and carnitine to mitigate the effects of statin drugs on the muscles. When taken together, these two supplements are supposed to reduce or eliminate muscle pain, fatigue and muscle cramping.

I asked a pharmacist about carnitine supplement. He thought it would be beneficial when taken with CoQ10, but could not provide any information. It would appear that pharmacies do not stock this supplement.

I read that CoQ10 should be taken with food. That came as quite a surprise - I've been taking it with the statin at bedtime, hours after eating. Would this interfere with absorption???

Thank you.
FG

yackedar · 04-29-2009, 02:01 AM

Hi Flowergirl

I have read that it is recommended that coenzyme Q10 be taken with a meal that contains oil to improve absorption. CoQ10 is fat soluble, and like most other fat-soluble compounds, it is poorly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, especially when taken on an empty stomach.

My CoQ10 product states, to be taken with a meal on the label.

As for the carnitine combination, I must admit, I have never read this.

TopGeek · 04-29-2009, 02:39 AM

To reduce cholesterol, I take a fenofibrate and 100mg of CoQ10 as well as 200mg of niacin. The notes with the CoQ10 do say that it should be taken during meals. I am not aware of the carnitine connection.

flowergirl2day · 04-29-2009, 10:30 AM

Thank you for your replies, yakedar and topgeek.

I will have to start taking the CoQ10 with dinner to ensure proper absorption. This is easily done and might reduce the muscle cramping.

I go for physiotherapy to help with the muscle aches and pain. The frequent muscle spasms prevent me from doing some of the exercises properly. At times I jump right off the treatment table.

Even though it helps, the physio is not a long-term solution.

I came across the carnitine connection when reading about the ways to counter the effect of cholesterol medication on the muscles. Of course, there are other causes of muscle aches and cramping as well. I just want to have all bases covered.

I think I'll stick with the CoQ10 for now and take it early in the evening.

FG