CoQ10 in Australia: Ubiquinone vs Ubiquinol, PQQ & How to Choose a Supplement (2026 Guide)
Ubiquinone or ubiquinol? 100mg or 400mg? With PQQ or without? A plain-English guide to reading CoQ10 labels and comparing softgels in Australia.
CoQ10 is one of the most popular supplements in Australia — and one of the most confusing labels. This guide explains the two forms you will see, why CoQ10 usually comes in softgels, what PQQ is, and how to compare products.
What Is CoQ10?
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a compound the body makes itself and which is present in cells throughout the body. It is also found in foods, particularly:
- Organ meats such as heart and liver
- Oily fish such as sardines and mackerel
- Beef, chicken and pork
- Smaller amounts in wholegrains, nuts, soybeans and some vegetables
Ubiquinone vs Ubiquinol
CoQ10 exists in two forms, and labels will state which one a product contains.
| Ubiquinone | Ubiquinol | |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Oxidised form | Reduced form |
| In supplements | The most common and longest-established form | Newer; usually more expensive |
| In the body | The body converts between the two forms | |
When comparing products, compare like with like — ubiquinone with ubiquinone, or ubiquinol with ubiquinol — and check the milligrams per serving.
Why CoQ10 Usually Comes in Softgels
CoQ10 is fat-soluble. That is why it is commonly supplied in an oil-based softgel (for example in olive oil or MCT oil) and why labels often suggest taking it with a meal that contains some fat.
Check the softgel shell: many are made from gelatin, which is animal-derived and not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
What Is PQQ?
PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone) is a compound found in small amounts in foods such as kiwifruit, green peppers, parsley and fermented soybeans (natto). It is often paired with CoQ10 in combination formulas. It is a separate ingredient — check its amount on the label just as you would CoQ10.
Other ingredients often added
- L-carnitine — made in the body from amino acids and found in red meat and dairy
- Vitamin E — a fat-soluble vitamin found in nuts, seeds and vegetable oils
- Black pepper extract (piperine) — commonly included in softgel formulations
- Omega-3s — check the source on the label if you avoid fish
How to Compare CoQ10 Supplements
1. Form
Ubiquinone or ubiquinol.
2. Milligrams per serving
Products range widely — from around 30mg to 400mg or more per serving. Check whether the amount is per softgel or per multi-softgel serving.
3. Other ingredients
Combination formulas include PQQ, carnitine, vitamins or botanicals. Check each one, especially if you take other supplements.
4. Shell and allergens
Gelatin vs vegetarian softgel; check soy, fish and other allergen statements.
5. Cost per serving
Divide the price by the number of servings.
Medicines and CoQ10
CoQ10 can interact with some medicines, including warfarin and other blood-thinning medication. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before use if you take any regular medicines — including blood thinners, blood pressure medicines or cholesterol-lowering medicines — or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
CoQ10 at Health & Heal
- Health & Heal CoQ10 400mg with PQQ & L-Carnitine — 60 Softgels — 400mg ubiquinone per softgel with PQQ 20mg, L-carnitine, vitamin E and black pepper extract in an organic olive oil base. One softgel daily, a two-month supply. Contains gelatin.
Related reading: Capsules, Liquid Drops or Gummies: How to Choose a Supplement Format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ubiquinol better than ubiquinone?
They are two forms of the same compound, and the body converts between them. Ubiquinone is the more established and usually more affordable form. Compare the form and milligrams per serving.
Should I take CoQ10 with food?
CoQ10 is fat-soluble, so labels commonly suggest taking it with a meal that contains fat. Follow your product's directions.
Is CoQ10 vegan?
CoQ10 itself can be produced by fermentation, but many softgels use a gelatin shell. Check the label.
Can I take CoQ10 with my medication?
Ask your doctor or pharmacist first, particularly if you take blood-thinning medication.
This article is general educational information only and is not medical advice. Supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always read the label and follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.