Ubiquinol vs Ubiquinone: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve been comparing CoQ10 supplements, you may have noticed two names appearing on product labels: ubiquinol and ubiquinone. Both are forms of Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, but there are some differences between them. This can make choosing a supplement feel more complicated than it needs to be.

So, what is the difference between ubiquinol and ubiquinone, and does one form of CoQ10 make more sense for you?

Here’s what you need to know.

What Is CoQ10?

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a naturally occurring substance found throughout the body. CoQ10 helps the mitochondria — the parts of our cells responsible for producing energy — convert nutrients from food into energy the cells can use.

Your body can make CoQ10 itself, and you can also get small amounts through food. CoQ10 is available as a food supplement, most commonly in one of two forms: ubiquinone or ubiquinol.

If you're new to the subject, our main CoQ10 guide explains Coenzyme Q10 in more detail.

What Is Ubiquinone?

Ubiquinone is one of the two forms of CoQ10 found in the body and is the form traditionally used in many CoQ10 supplements.

You may see it described as the “oxidised” form of CoQ10. This simply refers to its chemical state — it doesn't mean that ubiquinone causes oxidation or is somehow harmful.

Think of ubiquinone and ubiquinol as two versions of the same substance that the body can change back and forth between as needed.

Ubiquinone has been widely used in CoQ10 supplements for many years and is available in a broad choice of strengths and formats.

What Is Ubiquinol?

Ubiquinol is the other form of CoQ10.

Scientists describe it as the “reduced” form, but in this context “reduced” doesn't mean there is less of it or that it is weaker. It is simply the scientific name for a change in its chemical state.

When ubiquinone gains electrons, it becomes ubiquinol. When ubiquinol gives up those electrons, it becomes ubiquinone. The body can continually convert one form into the other. This ability to switch between the two forms is part of how CoQ10 carries out its roles within our cells.

Ubiquinol has become increasingly common in supplements and is sometimes marketed as a more readily absorbed form of CoQ10.

Ubiquinol vs Ubiquinone: What Is the Difference?

So, despite their different names, ubiquinol and ubiquinone aren't two completely different nutrients. They are two forms of CoQ10.

The simplest way to understand the difference is:

• Ubiquinone = the oxidised form of CoQ10.
• Ubiquinol = the reduced form of CoQ10.
• “Oxidised” and “reduced” describe whether the CoQ10 molecule has given up or gained electrons.
• Your body can change CoQ10 from one form to the other.

For someone choosing a supplement, you don't need to understand the chemistry in any more detail than that. The more useful question is whether the difference between the two forms makes a meaningful difference when choosing a CoQ10 supplement.

Is Ubiquinol Better Absorbed Than Ubiquinone?

This is one of the main reasons people compare the two.

Some studies have found higher blood concentrations of CoQ10 following supplementation with ubiquinol compared with certain ubiquinone formulations.

However, absorption isn't determined by the name on the label alone.

CoQ10 is fat-soluble, and factors including the formulation and delivery system can affect its absorption. Some ubiquinone supplements, for example, use oil-based softgels or other formulations designed with absorption in mind.

So it is too simplistic to say that ubiquinol is always better absorbed than ubiquinone.

Is Ubiquinol Better Than Ubiquinone?

Not necessarily. Ubiquinol is sometimes promoted as the superior form of CoQ10, but the choice is more nuanced than that.

Both forms provide CoQ10, and both are used in supplements. Ubiquinol products can also be considerably more expensive.

Rather than assuming one is automatically “best”, compare the complete product, including:

• the form of CoQ10
• the amount provided per serving
• the formulation
• the recommended serving
• the format, such as capsule, softgel or liquid
• the price per serving.

Does Age Matter When Choosing CoQ10?

You'll sometimes see ubiquinol recommended specifically for older adults on the basis that the body's ability to produce or convert CoQ10 may change with age.

There is research interest in how CoQ10 status changes as we get older, but that doesn't mean everyone over a particular age automatically needs ubiquinol rather than ubiquinone.

Age can be one consideration, but it shouldn't replace looking at your overall diet, health, medication and the individual supplement.

What Strength of CoQ10 Should You Choose?

CoQ10 supplements come in a wide range of strengths, so you may see products providing 30mg, 100mg, 200mg or considerably more per serving. More isn't automatically better.

The appropriate amount depends on why you're considering CoQ10 and your individual circumstances. Follow the directions on the product and speak to a healthcare professional if you're unsure what is appropriate for you.

This is particularly important if you're considering higher-strength supplementation.

Ubiquinol, Ubiquinone and Statins

CoQ10 is also frequently discussed in relation to statin medication. Statins can reduce circulating levels of CoQ10, which has led researchers to investigate whether CoQ10 supplementation might help people experiencing statin-associated muscle symptoms.

The research remains mixed, so CoQ10 should not be considered a replacement for prescribed medication or a reason to stop taking a statin.

If this is why you're researching CoQ10, read our guide to CoQ10 and Statins: What Does the Research Say?

If you're experiencing side effects from a statin, speak to your GP or pharmacist before changing your medication or adding a supplement.

How to Choose Between Ubiquinol and Ubiquinone

If you're deciding between the two, start with the practical considerations.

Ubiquinone may suit you if: you're looking for a widely available form of CoQ10 with plenty of choice across different brands, strengths and price points.

Ubiquinol may suit you if: you're specifically looking for the reduced form of CoQ10 and are comfortable with the potentially higher price.

Whichever you choose, pay attention to the overall formulation and serving, rather than choosing solely because the front of the pack says ubiquinol or ubiquinone.

Can You Take CoQ10 With Medication?

If you take prescription medication, it's sensible to speak to your GP or pharmacist before starting CoQ10. This is particularly important if you take medicines such as anticoagulants or you're considering CoQ10 because of symptoms you believe are related to another medication.

Your healthcare professional can advise you based on your medication and individual circumstances.

The Evergreen View

The difference between ubiquinol and ubiquinone sounds complicated, but both are forms of CoQ10 and your body naturally moves between them.

Ubiquinol has attracted attention because of its absorption, but that doesn't mean it's automatically the best CoQ10 supplement for everyone.

Look at the complete product — form, formulation, strength, serving and price — and choose the option that best suits your needs.

You can browse our full range of CoQ10 Supplements to compare different forms and strengths from trusted brands.

Evergreen – Good Health, Naturally.