Prospects of Intravenous Coenzyme Q10 Administration in Emergency Ischemic Conditions

Abstract

Coenzyme CoQ10 (CoQ10) is an endogenous lipid-soluble antioxidant that effectively protects lipids, proteins, and DNA from oxidation due to its ability to undergo redox transitions between oxidized and reduced forms. Various oxidative stress-associated infectious and somatic diseases have been observed to disrupt the balance of CoQ10 concentration in tissues. As a high molecular weight polar lipophilic compound, CoQ10 exhibits very limited oral bioavailability, which restrains its therapeutic potential. Nevertheless, numerous studies have confirmed the clinical efficacy of CoQ10 therapy through oral administration of high doses over extended time periods. Experimental studies have demonstrated that in emergency situations, intravenous administration of both oxidized and reduced-form CoQ10 leads to a rapid increase in its concentration in organ tissues, offering protection for organ tissues in ischemic conditions. This suggests that the cardio- and neuroprotective efficacy of intravenously administered CoQ10 forms could present new opportunities in treating acute ischemic conditions. Based on these findings, the review provides reasoning supporting further research and implementation of CoQ10 dosage forms for intravenous administration in emergency situations into clinical practice.