Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking coenzyme Q as follows:
- Avoid taking coenzyme Q before any scheduled surgery, as continued intake of coenzyme Q could complement the hypotension caused by the surgery, thus leading to episodes of severe low blood pressure numbers. Observing compliance with general fall prevention measures and DME recommended, such as, cane or walker, during immediate post-surgical period, can help prevent falls and injuries due to low blood pressure.
- Coenzyme Q increases sensitivity of body cells to insulin, thus increasing the glucose uptake and utilization by the body cells. This can help partly with controlling the elevated blood sugars in diabetics, but can result in low blood sugars and hypoglycemia in normal individuals. Individuals with history of hypoglycemic episodes, secondary to intake of coenzyme Q, can present with confusion, exacerbation of anxiety, irritability, fatigue, and heart palpitations due to low blood sugars. Report development of any of these symptoms, following intake of coenzyme Q, for any appropriate measures to be considered. Individuals with history of hypoglycemia must exercise compliance with dietary recommendations and timely intake, to prevent development of such episodes, secondary to intake of coenzyme Q. Diabetic individuals must observe strict compliance with dietary recommendations and intake of antidiabetic medications, as prescribed, to prevent development of hypoglycemic episodes with intake of coenzyme Q.
- Coenzyme Q use can result in common general constitutional symptoms such as, nausea and vomiting. Taking dose of coenzyme Q with a glass of water, after having some food or a snack can help avoid having unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms with the medication.
