Bioavailability and Cellular Compatibility of a Novel Coenzyme Q10 Emulgel as an Alternative Oral Delivery System for Patients with Dysphagia: Preliminary Results from a Randomized Study

Abstract

Background Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) plays a vital role in mitochondrial bioenergetics and functions as a potent endogenous antioxidant. Low CoQ10 levels have been associated with various neurodegenerative, metabolic, muscular, and cardiovascular disorders. Early intervention with high-dose oral CoQ10 (5–50 mg/kg/day) can mitigate disease progression and delay the onset of renal disease. We recently developed an emulgel matrix that facilitates the ingestion of high-dose, oil-dissolved CoQ10 for patients with CoQ10 deficiency and secondary dysphagia. Objective To evaluate the bioavailability and cellular compatibility of this novel CoQ10 emulgel. Methods Two exploratory studies were conducted in healthy adults: a randomized cross-over single-dose trial (n=6) and a 14-day repeated-dose trial (n=12) comparing 1 g of CoQ10 administered as emulgel (25 g serving) or solid capsules (2×size00). Plasma CoQ10 concentrations were determined by validated HPLC-UV and pharmacokinetic parameters were analyzed using noncompartmental methods. Cellular compatibility was assessed in Vero cells. Results The single-dose study in healthy adults demonstrated equivalent bioavailability of 1 g CoQ10 administered via emulgel (25 g serving) and solid capsules (1 g CoQ10 in two size-00 capsules). However, CoQ10 in the emulgel exhibited faster and more efficient absorption. A 14-day repeated-dose study revealed significant higher plasma CoQ10 concentrations with emulgel administration, potentially achieving therapeutic levels. A cellular compatibility assay confirmed the safety of the emulgel. Conclusions These findings indicate that the emulgel matrix does not compromise the bioavailability of oil-dissolved CoQ10 and offers a promising, safe, and comfortable alternative for patients with dysphagia requiring long-term, high-dose CoQ10 supplementation.