What are the ingredients in bio Q10?

December 10, 2025 •

2 min read

Bio-Quinone Q10 was one of the first Q10 preparations introduced to the European market in 1990 and contained coenzyme Q10 dissolved in vegetable oil. The ingredients in bio Q10 supplements typically include the active form of Coenzyme Q10, alongside various carrier oils, gelatins, and stabilizers to enhance absorption and shelf-life.

Quick Summary

The core component of Bio Q10 is coenzyme Q10, available in two primary forms: ubiquinone and ubiquinol. This active ingredient is combined with inactive substances such as carrier oils, gelatin for softgels, humectants like glycerol, and stabilizers to protect the compound and optimize its absorption by the body.

Key Points

Core Active Ingredient: The main component is Coenzyme Q10, available as either ubiquinone (oxidized) or ubiquinol (active).
Absorption Enhancers: Bio Q10 supplements use carrier oils like soybean or sunflower oil to improve the absorption of the fat-soluble CoQ10.
Formulation Differences: Ubiquinol is the more readily absorbed form, while ubiquinone is more stable and often less expensive.
Inactive Components: The formulation includes inactive ingredients such as gelatin, glycerol, purified water, and colorants to form the softgel capsule and ensure stability.
Synergistic Blends: Some products add other beneficial ingredients like L-Carnitine, L-Arginine, and Omega-3s to support heart health and energy metabolism.
Quality Matters: The quality of ingredients, particularly the bioavailability of the CoQ10, is a key factor differentiating products.

Core Ingredients in Bio Q10 Supplements

At its heart, any product labeled 'Bio Q10' contains Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a vitamin-like substance crucial for energy production within cells. However, CoQ10 is a fat-soluble molecule, meaning it's poorly absorbed by the body in its pure crystalline form. To address this, manufacturers combine the active CoQ10 with other ingredients designed to enhance its absorption and stability.

The Active Compound: Ubiquinone or Ubiquinol

Coenzyme Q10 is the primary active ingredient. It exists in two main forms: ubiquinone (oxidized) and ubiquinol (active). The body converts ubiquinone to ubiquinol for use. Some supplements use ubiquinone dissolved in oil for better absorption, while others use ubiquinol directly for potentially enhanced absorption, particularly beneficial for older adults.

Enhancing Bioavailability with Carrier Oils

As CoQ10 is fat-soluble, it needs to be dissolved in an oil base for effective absorption. Common carrier oils include soybean oil, sunflower oil, or medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) oil, which help deliver the CoQ10 to the body.

Inactive Ingredients for Structure and Stability

Inactive ingredients are crucial for the supplement's form and longevity. Softgel capsules often use gelatin (typically bovine), glycerol, and purified water as humectants. Antioxidants like d-alpha-tocopherol may be added to prevent oxidation. Colors such as iron oxide or annatto extract and stabilizers like Riboflavin may also be included.

Comparison of Ubiquinone vs. Ubiquinol Formulations

Understanding the difference between the two CoQ10 forms is key. The formulation impacts absorption and cost.


Feature	Ubiquinone Formulation	Ubiquinol Formulation
Absorption	Requires conversion; potentially less efficient, especially with age.	Active form; more readily absorbed.
Cost	Generally less expensive.	Can be more costly.
Stability	More stable and less sensitive to light and oxygen.	More susceptible to oxidation; requires stabilization.
Delivery System	Often uses an oil-based matrix and heating.	May use special systems like MCTs or patented complexes.

Synergistic Ingredients in Bio Q10 Supplements

Some Bio Q10 products include additional ingredients to enhance benefits. These can include L-Carnitine, L-Arginine, Omega-3 fatty acids, and various vitamins (like B2, B12, folic acid) and minerals (Zinc, Selenium). These additions aim to support energy metabolism, circulation, and antioxidant protection.

Conclusion

The main ingredient in Bio Q10 is Coenzyme Q10, found as ubiquinone or ubiquinol. Because it's fat-soluble, it's combined with carrier oils like soybean or sunflower oil for better absorption. Inactive ingredients like gelatin, glycerol, and antioxidants are included for capsule structure and stability. Some products feature additional beneficial compounds. Reviewing the ingredient list helps consumers choose based on their needs. Resources from organizations like the NIH can provide further insight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ubiquinone is the oxidized, inactive form of CoQ10 that the body must convert to become active. Ubiquinol is the reduced, active form that is more readily absorbed, especially by older individuals.

Coenzyme Q10 is a fat-soluble molecule, meaning it does not dissolve well in water. Dissolving it in a carrier oil, such as soybean or sunflower oil, is necessary to significantly improve its absorption by the body.

Yes, many Bio Q10 softgel capsules use gelatin derived from animal sources (often bovine). Consumers should check the specific product's ingredients for confirmation, especially if they follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Common inactive ingredients include carrier oils (soybean oil, sunflower oil), humectants (glycerol, purified water), gelatin for the capsule shell, and sometimes colors (iron oxide) and stabilizers (d-alpha-tocopherol).

Some formulations, particularly more advanced 'Bio Q10 Plus' or 'Gold' versions, can include additional vitamins like Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) or B12, and minerals to enhance the overall health benefits.

Most standard Bio Q10 supplements are gluten-free, but it is essential to check the product's label for a gluten-free certification, as cross-contamination can occur during manufacturing.

The complete list of ingredients for a Bio Q10 supplement is always printed on the product packaging, under the Supplement Facts or Ingredients section. Reputable brands also list this information on their websites.