Coenzyme Q10 Prevents Preeclampsia.

Two hundred thirty-five Ecuadorian women at risk of developing preeclampsia were randomly assigned to receive, in double-blind fashion, 200 mg/day of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) or placebo, beginning at 20 weeks of gestation and continuing until delivery. The incidence of preeclampsia was significantly lower in the CoQ10 group than in the placebo group (14.4% vs. 25.6%; 44% decrease; p < 0.04). There was no difference in pregnancy duration or birth weight between groups. No adverse effects were reported.

Comment: Pregnant women with preeclampsia have been found to have significantly lower plasma CoQ10 levels, when compared with women with healthy pregnancies and nonpregnant women. The results of the present study indicate that supplementation with CoQ10 decreased the incidence of preeclampsia in women at high risk of developing the condition. The mechanism of action is not known.

Teran E et al. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation during pregnancy reduces the risk of pre-eclampsia. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2009;105:43-45.

by Alan R. Gaby, MD

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