Magnesium, CoQ10 and Tryptophan Supplementation: Effects on Fatigue in Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic condition characterised by widespread muscle pain in the absence of signs of inflammation, often associated with various symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, memory deficits, and concentration problems.
For fibromyalgia syndrome, there is currently no specific medical therapy, but some pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life, especially when combined with targeted physical activity.
In addition, some studies have suggested that low magnesium levels may be associated with fibromyalgia.
A recent clinical study, whose results were published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements, evaluated the effects of magnesium, coenzyme Q10 and tryptophan supplementation in patients with fibromyalgia.
This monocentric, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-period, two-sequence study included adult patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia for at least two years. The study involved two three-month supplementation periods and a one-month washout period between them.
Participants were randomised to receive either the dietary supplement or a placebo.
The primary outcome was defined as the measurement of changes in fatigue, assessed using the Combined Index of Fibromyalgia Impact (ICAF).
A total of 110 patients were enrolled, with a mean age of 51 years, and predominantly women (94%), most of whom were already receiving pharmacological treatment for FM. Of these, 89 completed the study.
The clinical trial confirmed a significant improvement in the total ICAF score after 3 months of magnesium, CoQ10 and tryptophan supplementation, with mild adverse effects evenly distributed between groups.
Supplementation proved effective in improving the physical aspects of FM, including pain, sleep quality, and the overall impact, while showing good tolerability.
REFERENCES
Rosselló Aubach L, Fornós Roca X, Fernández Álvarez ME. Effects of Coenzyme Q10, Tryptophan, and Magnesium Supplementation on Fatigue in Patients with Fibromyalgia – A Randomized Trial. J Diet Suppl. 2025;22(3):433-444.