Yes, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) may help with ringing in the ears (tinnitus) by reducing oxidative stress, protecting inner ear cells, and potentially decreasing the loudness and disability associated with it, especially in those with low initial CoQ10 levels, though more research is needed, and it's often used alongside other treatments.
Antioxidant therapy, such as CoQ10 (22), may help reduce oxidative stress and inner ear damage in patients with idiopathic tinnitus, alleviating the intensity and discomfort associated with the condition (23). In this study, the intake of CoQ10 significantly reduced tinnitus disability and loudness.
The use of dietary supplements to treat tinnitus is common, particularly with Ginkgo biloba, lipoflavonoids, magnesium, melatonin, vitamin B12, and zinc. It is likely that some supplements will help with sleep for some patients.
But what makes CoQ10 truly cool, and such a great candidate to supplement, is that it's also a powerful antioxidant. In other words, not only does it help pump out the energy but, as an antioxidant, it also helps to neutralize the waste products that come with the energy production.
Bimodal neuromodulation forces the brain to pay attention to other sounds, driving attention away from tinnitus. “It's not a cure,” O'Neill says. It's a treatment [that] reduces significant symptoms.” The changes can be dramatic.
Er Long Zuo Ci Pill (耳聾左慈丸 in Chinese), a traditionally well-known formula, is widely used to treat tinnitus and deafness in China. It was found to be one of the most often used formulae to treat tinnitus in the recent 30 years (Zhang et al., 2015).
Using tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT), Shatner was able to return to an active lifestyle. TRT uses a noise-generating device much like a hearing aid. It is worn eight to ten hours a day for up to two years to retrain the brain. Coupling this device with counselling can help with the debilitating effects of tinnitus.
Safety and side effects
Coenzyme Q10, also called, CoQ10 supplements seem to be safe. They cause few side effects when taken as directed. Mild side effects might include stomach problems such as: Upper stomach pain.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) deficiency symptoms often include significant fatigue, muscle weakness, and pain, alongside neurological issues like seizures, poor coordination (ataxia), cognitive impairment, and vision/hearing loss, as well as kidney problems (nephrotic syndrome), because CoQ10 is crucial for cellular energy and antioxidant protection. Because it's rare, symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions, but can manifest as general weakness, cramps, or severe issues affecting the brain, heart (cardiomyopathy), and kidneys.
Summary of Recommendations
But experts suggest trying 1 of the following to find relief:
Tinnitus has been linked to vitamin B12 and vitamin D deficiencies. Vitamin B12 helps create myelin, which is the insulating and protective cover that surrounds the nerves. Vitamin B12 deficiency can irritate and hamper the function of nerves in the ear.
Medications known to cause tinnitus include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain antibiotics, cancer drugs, water pills (diuretics), antimalarial drugs and antidepressants.
In a quiet setting, a fan, soft music, or low-volume radio static may help mask the noise from tinnitus. Manage stress. Stress can make tinnitus worse. Stress management, whether through relaxation therapy, biofeedback, or exercise, may provide some relief.
There is no cure for tinnitus, but there are treatments that can improve the symptoms and address the mental health effects of tinnitus. Common natural remedies for tinnitus include natural supplements, such as ginkgo biloba, acai, and ginseng. Acupuncture, yoga, and mindfulness meditation may also be beneficial.
Vicks VapoRub. According to Kari, there is a myth that Vick's VapoRub alleviates tinnitus, but she says that there is no evidence that it works, and, in fact, it can be dangerous. "I have not heard this to be effective, and I would be careful because applying it in your ears can lead to toxic effects," Kari says.
Drug Interactions with CoQ10
Coenzyme Q10 supplements may interact with some antihypertensive (those that lower blood pressure) and chemotherapy drugs. Coenzyme Q10 may increase the risk of blood clots in people who take the anticoagulant warfarin by decreasing warfarin's effectiveness.
Organ meats.
CoQ10 is present in cells throughout your body, especially in your vital organs. This means animal organ meats have the highest amounts of CoQ10 per 100 grams. For instance, a beef heart has 11.3 milligrams, and a beef liver has 3.9 milligrams.
While CoQ10 can start to kick in within one to two weeks, it usually takes about eight weeks to experience its full benefits.
You should always review any supplements you wish to take with your oncologist to review their risks and benefits. If you're on warfarin or another blood thinner, you shouldn't take CoQ10 without consulting your doctor. “CoQ10 can reduce the efficacy of a blood thinner,” explains Splaver.
The best evidence is for its ability to increase energy and reduce cellular damage. It may also lower blood pressure and protect against complications from heart surgery, but more study is needed. CoQ10 has mild side effects and is safe for most people (except for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding).
Digestive system issues are the most commonly experienced side effects of CoQ10. If CoQ10 is causing stomach upset, abdominal pain, nausea, or diarrhea, try taking the supplement with food. If that doesn't work, try switching to a different CoQ10 product.
Barbra Streisand
Tinnitus was a constant struggle in both her personal and professional career, and she put off seeking treatment for many years. When she finally visited an audiologist, she learned how to cope with her tinnitus, and reduce her stress levels.
William Shatner, the 94-year-old actor, has managed various health challenges, most notably tinnitus, a ringing in the ears from a Star Trek set explosion, and a past battle with stage 4 melanoma, successfully treated. While rumors of serious illness surface occasionally (often tied to minor events like blood sugar issues or back pain), he remains active, emphasizing early detection and managing age-related aches alongside his persistent tinnitus.
What do William Shatner, Liza Minelli, Keanu Reeves, and Barbara Streisand all have in common? They all suffer from tinnitus, a chronic healing condition that causes a persistent, ringing, humming, hissing, or buzzing noise.