Coenzyme q10 in migraine prophylaxis: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Abstract

Background: Migraine is a common, chronic and devastating neurovascular syndrome. Much controversy exists around its definite mechanism. One of the suggested mechanisms is mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Theoretically, the application of Coenzyme Q10, a component of mitochondrial membrane and electron transport chain, and bears antioxidant properties could be effective in migraine prophylaxis. Clinical studies are limited. So, this study was conducted to compare the effect of Q10 and placebo for migraine prophylaxis. Methods: This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, conducted in Isfahan, Iran, in 2014. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants and demographic data were gathered. 27 patients received Q10 for 2 months and 27 patients received a look-alike placebo with the same dosage and schedule. Qualitative and quantitative characteristics of migraine headache including severity, frequency and duration were compared between the two groups. The data was analyzed using ANCOVA, Mann-Whitney and t tests in SPSS software. Findings: At the end of the study, there were no significant differences in terms of severity, frequency and duration of headaches between the two groups. For each of the mentioned variables, the difference between before and after the treatment was also similar among the two groups (P > 0.05) .Conclusion: Theoretically, Q10 may have a role in migraine prophylaxis; though, clinical studies are limited and the level of evidence is weak. In this study, we were unable to clinically demonstrate a clear beneficial effect for Q10. Complementary clinical trials with larger sample volumes, higher dosages and longer intervals of follow-up are suggested. © 2016, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All Rights Reserved.