Coenzyme Q10, as a supplement with a special role in mitochondrial electron transport chain, could be used as a successful treatment for migraine prevention. This is the conclusion of a study by various scientists at the Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in Iran.
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on lactate, pyruvate, Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and nitric oxide (NO) levels, in addition to migraine attacks in women with migraine. Conclusion? 12 weeks of oral CoQ10 supplementation showed positive effects on the control of migraine attacks.
Double-blind, placebo-controlled study
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study was conducted among 46 women aged between 20 and 50 years with the diagnosis of migraine. Patients were randomly assigned to the placebo group or the intervention group. The patients in the intervention group received 400 mg CoQ10 per day through supplementation. The duration of the intervention was 12 weeks. Blood samples were collected at the start and at the end of the intervention to measure serum levels of CoQ10, lactate, pyruvate, MMP-9 and NO.
Positive effects on migraine attacks
Treatment with CoQ10 significantly reduced serum concentrations of lactate, pyruvate, MMP-9 and NO, while CoQ10 concentrations increased after 12 weeks. There was a significant decrease in the lactate / pyruvate ratio in the intervention group. None of these changes were observed in a placebo-treated group. The results of this study showed that CoQ10 supplementation significantly reduced the frequency, severity and duration of migraine attacks compared to the placebo group. Supplementation with CoQ10 at a dose of 400 mg per day can therefore be an additional treatment for migraine headache. Long-term follow-up studies with different doses in both genders are recommended.