CoQ10 deficiency has been identified as a potentially reversible cause of steroid‑resistant nephrotic syndrome and glomerular nephropathy, particularly in children and young adults with genetic defects in CoQ10 biosynthesis. In reported series, affected patients often present with heavy proteinuria and progressive kidney dysfunction that fail to respond to standard steroid therapy, but genetic testing sometimes reveals mutations in CoQ10‑related genes (such as COQ2, COQ6, or ADCK4). The encouraging part is that in a subset of these cases, early and sufficiently dosed CoQ10 supplementation has been associated with reduced proteinuria and stabilization or partial improvement of kidney function, making it an important, treatable consideration in otherwise unexplained steroid‑resistant nephrotic syndrome. This medication is commonly used for Depression.
Frehat MQ Sr, Alhadidi A, Almheairat A, Alkhatib L, Al Thaher S, Al Assaf R, Al Qawaqenah M, Mansour B, Khair F. Success of Coenzyme Q10 in Treating Steroid-Resistant Nephrotic Syndrome in Jordan: A Case Series. Cureus. 2025 Apr 30;17(4):e83231. Drovandi S, Lipska-Ziętkiewicz BS, Ozaltin F, et al. Oral Coenzyme Q10 supplementation leads to better preservation of kidney function in steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome due to primary Coenzyme Q10 deficiency. Kidney Int. 2022 Sep;102(3):604-612. Drovandi S, Lipska-Ziętkiewicz BS, et al. Variation of the clinical spectrum and genotype-phenotype associations in Coenzyme Q10 deficiency associated glomerulopathy. Kidney Int. 2022 Sep;102(3):592-603. Salviati L, Sacconi S, Murer L, Zacchello G, Franceschini L, Laverda AM, Basso G, Quinzii C, Angelini C, Hirano M, Naini AB, Navas P, DiMauro S, Montini G. Infantile encephalomyopathy and nephropathy with CoQ10 deficiency: a CoQ10-responsive condition. Neurology. 2005 Aug 23;65(4):606-8.
Some side effects may be linked to nutrient depletion caused by this medication.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), also known as ubiquinone, is a vital nutrient found in nearly every cell in the body. CoQ10 plays a key role in cellular energy production, acting within the mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells. Research suggests a connection between mitochondrial dysfunction and depression, and this dysfunction might even be worsened by some antidepressant medications like amitriptyline. It found that tricyclic amines such as amitriptyline treatment in human cells decreased the levels of CoQ10. Supplementation with COQ10 could help improve overall cellular health and potentially alleviate symptoms associated with mitochondrial dysfunction in depression.
Research on the connection between vitamin B3 (niacin) and depression is growing. Studies suggest that people who met the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for niacin had a significantly lower risk of depression compared to those with lower intake. Vitamin B3 plays a role in converting food into energy, which is essential for brain function and overall well-being. Deficiencies can lead to fatigue and low mood. Some research suggests vitamin B3 might be involved in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which plays a role in mood regulation. Deficiencies in some neurotransmitters are linked to depression. Supplementation with vitamin B3 may help support mood and protect against depression.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) may play a role in mood regulation, particularly in older adults. Research has found an association between higher dietary intake of vitamin B2 and lower scores on a depression scale (Geriatric Depression Scale) in elderly individuals. Vitamin B2 converts food into energy, which is essential for all bodily functions, including brain function. Deficiencies can lead to fatigue and low mood. It is also involved in the production of neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers in the brain that influence mood. Deficiencies in some neurotransmitters are linked to depression. Supplementation with vitamin B2 may help support mood and protect against depression.