The Effects of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation on Lipid Profiles Among Patients with Metabolic Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background and objective: Oxidative stress and inflammation are key parameters in developing metabolic disorders. Hence, antioxidant intake might be an appropriate approach. Several studies have evaluated the effect of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on lipid profile among patients with metabolic diseases, though findings are controversial. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the effects of CoQ10 supplementation on lipid profile in patients with metabolic disorders. Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases until July 2017. Prospective clinical trials were selected assessing the effect of CoQ10 supplementation on different biomarkers. Two reviewers independently assessed the eligibility of studies, extracted data, and evaluated the risk of bias of included studies. A fixed- or random-effects model was used to pool the data, which expressed as a standardized mean difference with 95% confidence interval. Heterogeneity was measured using a Q-test and with I2 statistics. Results: A total of twenty-one controlled trials (514 patients and 525 controls) were included. The meta-analysis indicated a significant reduction in serum triglycerides levels (SMD -0.28; 95% CI, -0.56, -0.005). CoQ10 supplementation also decreased total-cholesterol (SMD -0.07; 95% CI, -0.45, 0.31), increased LDL- (SMD 0.04; 95% CI, -0.27, 0.36), and HDL-cholesterol levels (SMD 0.10; 95% CI, -0.32, 0.51), not statistically significant. Conclusion: CoQ10 supplementation may significantly reduce serum triglycerides levels, and help to improve lipid profiles in patients with metabolic disorders. Additional prospective studies are recommended using higher supplementation doses and longer intervention period.