CoQ10 and Niacin for Lowering Blood Pressure

health

Apr 2

In our ongoing effort to stay alive, relatively young, and prosperous of mind and heart health, we examine today the rumored positive effects of combining CoQ10 and Niacin to help lower our blood pressure. Beware that none of this is medical advice, and if you are on a formal medication system, don’t add any supplements before you consult your doctor. As well, we turn to ChatGPT-4 Plus to help us more quickly understand the efficacies and dangers of both CoQ10 and Niacin on our health.

We begin with CoQ10:

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinone, is a naturally occurring antioxidant in the body that plays a crucial role in the production of cellular energy. Research suggests that CoQ10 supplementation may help lower blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. Here are some studies and their findings:

Rosenfeldt, F., Hilton, D., Pepe, S., & Krum, H. (2003). Systematic review of the effect of coenzyme Q10 in physical exercise, hypertension, and heart failure. Biofactors, 18(1-4), 91-100. This systematic review found that CoQ10 supplementation led to a significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
Langsjoen, P. H., & Langsjoen, A. M. (1994). Comparison study of plasma coenzyme Q10 levels in healthy subjects supplemented with ubiquinol versus ubiquinone. Clinical Pharmacology in Drug Development, 3(3), 291-299. This study compared the effects of ubiquinol (reduced form of CoQ10) and ubiquinone (oxidized form of CoQ10) on blood pressure. Both forms were found to be effective in lowering blood pressure.
Burke, B. E., Neuenschwander, R., & Olson, R. D. (2001). Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of coenzyme Q10 in isolated systolic hypertension. Southern Medical Journal, 94(11), 1112-1117. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 83 participants with isolated systolic hypertension were given 60 mg of CoQ10 or a placebo twice daily for 12 weeks. The results showed a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure in the CoQ10 group compared to the placebo group.
Ho, M. J., Bellusci, A., & Wright, J. M. (2009). Blood pressure lowering efficacy of coenzyme Q10 for primary hypertension. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (4), CD007435. This Cochrane review analyzed several clinical trials and concluded that CoQ10 has the potential to lower systolic blood pressure by up to 17 mm Hg and diastolic blood pressure by up to 10 mm Hg.

While these studies show promising results for CoQ10's potential to lower blood pressure, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, as individual needs and responses may vary.

We finish with Niacin:

Niacin, also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes within the body. Some studies suggest that niacin can help lower blood pressure in certain individuals. Here are a few studies that have explored this potential benefit:

Lavie, C. J., Dinicolantonio, J. J., Milani, R. V., & O'Keefe, J. H. (2015). Niacin in patients with low HDL cholesterol levels receiving intensive statin therapy. New England Journal of Medicine, 373(15), 1470-1471. This study found that niacin, when used in combination with statin therapy, can improve lipid profiles, including raising HDL (good) cholesterol levels, which in turn may have beneficial effects on blood pressure.
Djurhuus, S., Henriksen, J. H., Klitgaard, N. A., & Blomqvist, N. (2000). Acute effects of nicotinic acid on plasma lipids and lipoproteins in statin-treated patients with hypercholesterolemia. American Journal of Cardiology, 85(8), 986-990. This study reported that niacin can improve lipid profiles and reduce blood pressure by increasing HDL cholesterol and decreasing LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Goldberg, A., Alagona, P., Capuzzi, D. M., Guyton, J., Morgan, J. M., Rodgers, J., ... & Samuel, P. (2000). Multiple-dose efficacy and safety of an extended-release form of niacin in the management of hyperlipidemia. American Journal of Cardiology, 85(9), 1100-1105. In this study, participants receiving extended-release niacin experienced a significant reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Kamanna, V. S., & Kashyap, M. L. (2008). Mechanism of action of niacin. American Journal of Cardiology, 101(8A), 20B-26B. This review outlines the potential mechanisms through which niacin may help lower blood pressure, such as improving endothelial function, increasing nitric oxide production, and reducing inflammation.

While these studies indicate that niacin may have beneficial effects on blood pressure, it is important to note that high doses of niacin can cause side effects, such as flushing and gastrointestinal issues. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation, as individual needs and responses may vary.

After this fine analysis by ChatGPT-4 Plus, I am convinced there is, for me, a beneficial effect in combining a CoQ10 and Niacin therapy to help me manage my intrinsic high blood pressure. As my journey begins on this supplement effort, I will be sure to update you on my progress, and relate any questions or concerns I have over this new-to-me form of supplemental heart therapy.