Clinical observations on the efficacy of ubiquinol in patients with statin-related muscle pain

Abstract

Background: Statin therapy effectively reduces cardiovascular events in patients with hypercholesterolaemia but is frequently associated with muscle pain, which can lead to discontinuation of the drug. This adverse effect may be potentially caused by reduced levels of ubiquinol, a key coenzyme in mitochondrial function. This study evaluates whether oral ubiquinol supplementation can alleviate statin-associated muscle pain in affected patients who continue statin therapy. Methods: Fifteen patients (10 males, 5 females; born 1936–1960) with confirmed statin-associated muscle pain and ongoing statin use received 200 mg/day of oral ubiquinol (Kaneka Ubiquinol™) for 30 days. Biochemical parameters (CK, liver enzymes, lipids) and subjective measures of pain and quality of life were assessed at baseline and again after treatment using the Brief Pain Inventory. Results: Ubiquinol supplementation had no significant impact on CK, liver enzymes or lipid profiles. However, patients reported a notable reduction in muscle pain severity (median "heaviest pain" score reduced from 6.0 to 4.0) and improvements in general activity, sleep, mood and enjoyment of life. No adverse effects related to ubiquinol were observed. Conclusion: Ubiquinol supplementation may reduce statin-associated muscle pain and improve some aspects of daily wellbeing in patients continuing statin therapy. While findings are promising, larger randomized controlled trials are necessary to confirm efficacy.