Coenzyme Q10 supplementation and lipid profiles, glycemic parameters and body composition in type 2 diabetes – a systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose This study aimed to systematically evaluate the effects of CoQ10 supplementation on anthropometric measures, lipid profile and glycemic indices in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Design/methodology/approach A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Relevant studies published up to May 2025 were identified through comprehensive searches of PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library and Google Scholar. Findings Sixteen RCTs involving 786 participants were included. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood glucose (weighted mean difference: −17.76 mg/dL [ −1.0 mmol/L]; 95% CI: −25.42 to −10.11; p < 0.001). Pooled analyses showed no significant effects on body weight, glycated hemoglobin, insulin resistance, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL-C or HDL-C. Originality/value This meta-analysis suggests that CoQ10 supplementation may be associated with reductions in fasting blood glucose in patients with T2DM. However, the results of the sensitivity analysis indicate that this effect is not fully stable; therefore, the findings should be interpreted with caution.