Promising efficacy of coenzyme Q10 supplementation as adjunctive therapy in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a randomized-controlled pilot study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, has shown therapeutic promise in adult autoimmune disorders. However, its role in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) has not been explored. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral CoQ10 in JIA patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective, single-blinded-pilot trial, 58 patients with active JIA were randomized equally to receive either CoQ10 (100 mg/day) or placebo plus standard therapy for 3 months. Clinical outcome was assessed using Juvenile Arthritis Disease Activity Score (JADAS-10). The quality of life (QoL) was evaluated using Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire (CHAQ). Biochemical markers included tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH). All parameters were assessed at baseline and after 3 months. RESULTS: < 0.01). Minor side-effects were reported during the study. CONCLUSION: CoQ10 significantly improved disease severity, QoL, and inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in JIA patients with an excellent safety profile. NCT05871086.