Coenzyme Q10 - Actos (Pioglitazone) Interaction
Herbal: Coenzyme Q10
Also Known As: CoQ10
Drug: Pioglitazone
Brand names:
Actos

Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 18, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Pioglitazone 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
Pioglitazone Overview
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Pioglitazone is used with a diet and exercise program and sometimes with other medications, to treat type 2 diabetes (condition in which the body does not use insulin normally and therefore cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood). Pioglitazone is in a class of medications called thiazolidinediones. It works by increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin, a natural substance that helps control blood sugar levels. Pioglitazone is not used to treat type 1 diabetes (condition in which the body does not produce insulin and, therefore, cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood) or diabetic ketoacidosis (a serious condition that may develop if high blood sugar is not treated).
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Over time, people who have diabetes and high blood sugar can develop serious or life-threatening complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney problems, nerve damage, and eye problems.Taking medication(s), making lifestyle changes (e.g., diet, exercise, quitting smoking), and regularly checking your blood sugar may help to manage your diabetes and improve your health. This therapy may also decrease your chances of having a heart attack, stroke, or other diabetes-related complications such as kidney failure, nerve damage (numb, cold legs or feet; decreased sexual ability in men and women), eye problems, including changes or loss of vision, or gum disease. Your doctor and other healthcare providers will talk to you about the best way to manage your diabetes.
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.