The relationship between low levels of coenzyme Q10 and oxidative damage in patients with fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a condition associated with various symptoms, mainly widespread body pain and fatigue, and its exact cause is unclear. Many factors such as mitochondrial dysfunction, genetics, epigenetic factors and western-style diet cause the disease. Mitochondrial dysfunction and associated oxidative damage play a role in the basic pathogenesis of FM. Decreased levels of coenzyme Q10, an antioxidant compound, in FM patients is one of the important causes of this condition. When the blood parameters of the patients are analysed, it is seen that most of them have sub-optimal coenzyme Q10 values. Coenzyme Q10 is a fat-soluble antioxidant molecule responsible for energy production in mitochondria. Since it is involved in important physiological mechanisms related to oxidative stress such as cell signalling, gene expression and redox reactions, many studies have recently been conducted on its use in fibromyalgia treatment. In this review, the relationship between low coenzyme Q10 levels and oxidative damage-related chronic pain, fatigue and sleep symptoms in fibromyalgia patients investigated. The results obtained, the direct effect of coenzyme Q10 on mitochondrial function and its antioxidant role have been associated with the prevention of oxidative damage. Increasing coenzyme Q10 levels has been shown to alleviate disease symptoms such as pain, fatigue and insomnia. In order to increase coenzyme Q10 levels in fibromyalgia patients, a personalised nutrition plan containing antioxidant-rich foods should be prepared and nutritional supplements containing coenzyme Q10 can be added to the diet plan.