Which of the following is listed as a supplemental medication for cardiac conditions?

• A. Vitamin C
• B. Selenium
• C. Calcium carbonate
• D. CoQ10

Answer: (D)

CoQ10 is used as a supplemental option in cardiac care because it supports energy production in heart muscle cells and helps protect them from oxidative stress. In the heart, keeping mitochondria functioning well is crucial for sustained contractile work, and CoQ10 (ubiquinone) is a key component of the electron transport chain that helps generate ATP while also acting as an antioxidant. Levels of CoQ10 can decline with age and with statin therapy, so supplementation is sometimes chosen to support overall cardiac function and to counteract statin-associated muscle symptoms. The evidence for routine use in all patients is mixed, but it remains a commonly cited cardiac supplement in many clinical resources.

Vitamin C is a general antioxidant and nutrient, not typically listed as a primary cardiac supplement. Selenium is important for antioxidant enzymes and overall health but isn’t standardly prescribed specifically for heart conditions. Calcium carbonate is a calcium supplement aimed at bone health, not a cardiac-specific therapy.