Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium

Also known as: Pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium salt, Methoxatin disodium salt, Disodium pyrroloquinolinedione tricarboxylate, PQQ, BioPQQ, Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium

Overview

Pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium (PQQ) is a quinone compound found in small amounts in foods like fermented soybeans and parsley, and also produced synthetically for supplements. It's recognized for its antioxidant properties and potential cognitive benefits. As a dietary supplement, PQQ is primarily used to support cognitive function, provide antioxidant effects, and aid energy metabolism. Research suggests it may enhance mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress. While studies show promise, particularly in improving cognitive functions like attention and working memory in elderly individuals, more comprehensive and long-term research is needed to fully understand its effects and establish its widespread use. PQQ is considered a novel food ingredient and is available in supplement form as PQQ disodium salt.

Benefits

PQQ may improve cognitive functions, such as attention and working memory, particularly in elderly individuals. A randomized, double-blind study showed that 20 mg of PQQ disodium salt per day improved cognitive functions compared to a placebo. Some research suggests potential anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effects, though these are less studied in humans. Middle-aged individuals might experience enhanced memory and judgment. The clinical significance of PQQ's effects is still being explored, and more research is needed to fully understand its impact. Benefits may be observed within several weeks of supplementation, but long-term effects are not well-documented. The evidence base is still growing, and further investigation is needed to support widespread use.

How it works

PQQ functions as a potent antioxidant, potentially boosting mitochondrial function and decreasing oxidative stress. It may interact with the nervous system to enhance cognitive functions and with metabolic pathways to influence energy metabolism. PQQ can affect various cellular pathways related to energy metabolism and oxidative stress, though specific molecular targets are not fully elucidated. It is thought to be absorbed and utilized by the body effectively. Its primary biological pathways involve reducing oxidative stress and supporting mitochondrial biogenesis, which is crucial for cellular energy production and overall health.

Side effects

PQQ is generally considered safe at recommended doses. No common side effects have been consistently reported. There is limited data on uncommon and rare side effects. Potential interactions with other medications are not well-studied. It is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women due to limited data. Caution is advised in populations with specific health conditions or taking medications without consulting a healthcare provider. Animal studies have shown a No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) of 100 mg/kg bw per day. However, long-term effects and interactions with medications are not fully understood, so it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Dosage

A typical minimum effective dose of PQQ is 20 mg per day, as used in many studies. The optimal dosage range is not well-established, but 20 mg per day is commonly used. The maximum safe dose is not clearly defined, and doses above 20 mg per day are not commonly studied. The timing of intake is not specified, but it may be taken with meals to enhance absorption. PQQ disodium salt is the common form used in supplements. Absorption may be influenced by dietary factors, but specific cofactors are not identified. No specific cofactors are required for PQQ supplementation. It's important to adhere to recommended dosages and consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation.

FAQs

Is PQQ safe to use?

PQQ is generally considered safe at recommended doses, but long-term effects and interactions with medications are not fully understood. Pregnant or lactating women should avoid it.

What are the expected results from taking PQQ?

Users may expect improved cognitive function, particularly in attention and working memory. However, individual results may vary, and more research is needed to confirm these effects.

When is the best time to take PQQ?

There is no specific timing recommended for administration. It can be taken with meals to potentially enhance absorption, but consistent daily intake is more important than timing.

What is PQQ?

PQQ is a quinone compound with antioxidant properties, not a vitamin. It's found in small amounts in various foods and is also produced synthetically for use in supplements.

Who should avoid taking PQQ?

Pregnant or lactating women should avoid PQQ due to limited safety data. Individuals with specific health conditions or taking medications should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Research Sources

https://www.fda.gov/files/food/published/GRAS-Notice-000590--Pyrroloquinoline-quinone.pdf – This GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) notice provides information on the safety assessment of pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) as a food ingredient. It outlines the intended use and consumption levels, concluding that PQQ is safe under the proposed conditions of use. The assessment focuses on safety rather than efficacy.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26782228/ – This randomized, double-blind study investigated the effects of PQQ disodium salt on cognitive functions in elderly individuals. The study found that 20 mg of PQQ disodium salt per day improved cognitive functions, particularly in attention and working memory, compared to a placebo. The study suggests PQQ may have potential benefits for cognitive health.
https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Effect-of-the-Antioxidant-Supplement-Quinone-Salt-Itoh-Hine/1e1485d9cd5d433cb87c8543b172c75bc4df3226 – This paper examines the effect of quinone salt, specifically PQQ, as an antioxidant supplement. The research suggests that PQQ has potential health benefits, including anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effects. However, the review highlights the need for more human studies to confirm these findings and fully understand the clinical significance of PQQ's effects.
https://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/5058 – The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) published a journal article concluding that PQQ disodium salt is safe as a novel food ingredient at proposed consumption levels. The assessment focused on the safety of PQQ and did not address its efficacy. The conclusion supports the use of PQQ in food products within the specified safety parameters.
https://academic.oup.com/asj/article-abstract/44/1/NP104/7250217?login=false&redirectedFrom=PDF – This article provides an abstract discussing the potential benefits of PQQ. It highlights PQQ's role as an antioxidant and its possible effects on mitochondrial function and cognitive health. The abstract suggests that PQQ may offer various health benefits, warranting further research to fully understand its mechanisms and clinical applications.