We investigated the potential benefits of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation in patients recovering from acute ischemic stroke. In this double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled study, fifty hospitalized patients were divided into two groups; one received 600 mg of CoQ10 daily for 30 days, while the other received a placebo starting 24 hours post-stroke.
Our findings revealed notable improvements among those taking CoQ10. The group supplemented with CoQ10 showed significant reductions in harmful substances linked to oxidative stress, such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and inflammatory interleukin-6 (IL-6). Additionally, we observed increases in beneficial antioxidants, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), suggesting that CoQ10 may aid in neuroprotection and recovery after a stroke.
While some biomarkers did not show significant change, the overall results suggest that CoQ10 could be a valuable addition to rehabilitation programs for stroke patients, potentially improving recovery outcomes.