Lack of Co-enzyme 10 May Increase Risk of Diabetes with Statin Use

Possible use of co-enzyme 10 to reduce this risk is being considered….

New labeling and warnings regarding statin-induced diabetes is a huge concern, especially the higher dose statins. The use of a statin increases the risk of type 2 diabetes by 9%.

Reduced expression of GLUT4, which helps control blood glucose levels, can be caused by statin use and contributes to insulin resistance and the onset of type-2 diabetes.

Statins reduce cholesterol production therefore lowering cholesterol levels and some statins also seem to reduce the levels of coenzyme 10 in the body. Coenzyme 10 is necessary for cells to create energy and perform functions.

Supplementation of coenzyme 10 in a laboratory analysis found that it prevents the reduction in GLUT4 due to the statins.

The reduction in GLUT4 are found more with the lipophilic statins i.e., simvastatin, atorvastatin and lovastatin. The higher doses of these statin are linked with the statin induced diabetes. Statins are extremely useful drugs in reducing cardiovascular events.

Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders April 10, 2013