Coenzyme
PQQ
Also known as: Pyrroloquinoline Quinone
A compound that supports mitochondrial function and cellular energy production.
KÖGN Health grades PQQ as B+ (Moderate evidence) and rates it 4.0 out of 5.
Last reviewed · June 2026
Primary effects
- Increased energy
- Neuroprotection
- Mitochondrial support
How it works
Promotes mitochondrial biogenesis and supports cellular energy metabolism.
Overview
PQQ is a redox cofactor that has been studied for its role in stimulating mitochondrial biogenesis, potentially improving cellular energy efficiency. It is often paired with CoQ10 for synergistic effects on energy metabolism. While human research is still emerging, it shows promise for long-term brain health and cognitive resilience rather than immediate performance enhancement.
The evidence
PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone) is a redox cofactor promoted for mitochondrial support. Small human trials — including a recent randomised trial in older adults with mild cognitive impairment — report modest improvements in memory, attention and brain metabolism, sometimes enhanced when combined with CoQ10. The trials are small and several are industry-linked, so the evidence is promising but preliminary.
How to dose it
Human studies commonly use around 20 mg/day, sometimes with CoQ10.
When to take it
Chronic — trials run over weeks to months.
Safety & side effects
Well tolerated in the short trials done so far; long-term human safety data are limited.
Who should avoid it
Few known issues, but human data are thin — discuss with a clinician before use in pregnancy or alongside other medication. Keep expectations modest given the small evidence base.
References
Related ingredients
Graded entries that target the same cognitive goals.
Categories
Draft — the dose, safety and evidence notes on this entry were prepared from the published literature and are pending editorial and clinical review.
Educational information, not medical advice. The evidence grade is KÖGN’s editorial assessment of published research, not a health claim. Speak to a qualified clinician before changing what you take.