Coenzyme Q10 - Niaspan (Niacin (prescription drug)) Interaction
Herbal: Coenzyme Q10
Also Known As: CoQ10
Drug: Niacin (prescription drug)
Brand names:
Niaspan, Niacor
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 26, 2024
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Niacin (prescription drug) and Coenzyme Q10. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Pharmacist Analysis
Although CoQ10 is considered relatively safe for most individuals, it does have some reported interactions that are important to be aware of.
This includes:
- Antihypertensives: Clinical research has shown that CoQ10 can significantly lower blood pressure but conflicting results have been reported.
- Warfarin: Research is conflicting but concomitant use of CoQ10 and warfarin might reduce the anticoagulant effects of warfarin.
- Alkylating Agents: Antioxidants such as CoQ10 might also protect tumor cells from chemotherapeutic agents that work by inducing oxidative stress, such as alkylating agents (e.g., cyclophosphamide) and radiation therapy.
Outside of the interactions I've listed above, CoQ10 is generally considered safe to supplement with in most situations.
In fact, some individuals taking certain medications (e.g., 'Statins') may be recommended to take it.
If you have any questions about CoQ10 supplements, be sure to speak to your healthcare professional. We are always happy to answer questions on the matter as well!
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDCoenzyme Q10 Overview
Niacin (prescription drug) Overview
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Niacin is used with diet changes (restriction of cholesterol and fat intake) to reduce the amount of cholesterol (a fat-like substance) and other fatty substances in your blood and to increase the amount of high density lipoprotein (HDL; ''good cholesterol''). Niacin can be used in a number of situations including the following:
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alone or in combination with other medications, such as HMG-CoA inhibitors (statins) or bile acid-binding resins;
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to decrease the risk of another heart attack in patients with high cholesterol who have had a heart attack;
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to prevent worsening of atherosclerosis (buildup of cholesterol and fats along the walls of the blood vessels) in patients with high cholesterol and coronary artery disease;
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to reduce the amount of triglycerides (other fatty substances) in the blood in patients with very high triglycerides who are at risk of pancreatic disease (conditions affecting the pancreas, a gland that produces fluid to break down food and hormones to control blood sugar).
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Niacin is also used to prevent and treat pellagra (niacin deficiency), a disease caused by inadequate diet and other medical problems. Niacin is a B-complex vitamin. At therapeutic doses, niacin is a cholesterol-lowering medication.
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Results of a clinical study in people with heart disease and well-controlled cholesterol levels that compared people who took niacin and simvastatin with people who took simvastatin alone and found similar results for the two groups in the rate of heart attacks or strokes. Taking niacin along with simvastatin or lovastatin also has not been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease or death compared with the use of niacin, simvastatin, or lovastatin alone. Talk to your doctor if you have questions about the risks and benefits of treating increased amounts of cholesterol in your blood with niacin and other medications.
Coenzyme Q10 - More Interactions
Coenzyme Q10 interacts with 195 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.