Many People are taking cholesterol- lowering drugs known as statin drugs (such as Lipitor, Zocor, etc.) These medications have the ability to substantially lower total serum cholesterol, especially LDL (low-density lipoprotein) which is the "bad" cholesterol. Statins work by interfering with an enzyme used in the production of cholesterol called HMG CoA reductase. High cholesterol is linked with heart disease and a reduction in such could help prevent risk.

Several studies have shown that statin drugs reduce serum CoQ10 levels. The reduction in CoQ10 levels can occur in a dose dependant manner. Which means the higher the dose the greater the reduction in the essential co-enzyme. The effect is a decrease in energy levels and a potential decrease in important antioxidant function. Low CoQ10 levels reduce the function of the cardiovascular system. While lowering cholesterol is important, it is essential we do not lower this important co enzymes level

in the process because it can lead to the heart not being able to pump effectively, therefore working counter- productively.

Co enzyme Q10 is used by the body for the production of energy and as an antioxidant. While all cells use CoQ10, one of the organs that relies most on this co enzyme for the production of energy is the heart. Research has demonstrated that supplementation with CoQ10 while taking a statin will maintain the proper levels in serum and blood cells. Equally as important, supplementation with CoQ10 does not interfere with the cholesterol- lowering effects and potential benefits of the medication.

If you have high cholesterol and your doctor has prescribed a statin medication, continue to take it as prescribed. Consider complementing it with a natural medication such as CoQ10 to avoid any such side effects and improve the drugs effectiveness.

To make sure we have every advantage for the health of our heart we must look at several other factors; lifestyle circumstances (history, stressors, triggers, etc.), genetic pre-dispositions, and nutrition. We can help prevent this situation from occurring with individualized programs consisting of proper diets, and supplements based on diagnostic information (e.g. Homocysteine, LDL HDL ratio, Triglycerides) and personal risk factor.