Pqq
Also known as methoxatin, pqq, pyrroloquinoline quinone
Key takeaways
- PQQ supplementation positively impacts mitochondrial biomarkers and brain metabolism in elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment (PMID: 38908296).
- PQQ disodium salt has been shown to improve brain function in both younger and older adults (PMID: 36807425).
- Evidence suggests PQQ can improve cognitive function in healthy volunteers (PMID: 34415830, PMID: 26782228).
What the research shows
AI-synthesized from 6 peer-reviewed sources · Updated 2025
Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is an antioxidant supplement primarily studied for its effects on mitochondrial function and cognitive performance. Current research suggests it may improve brain function and cognition across various age groups, including elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment.
By condition
Cognitive Function
Moderate
Multiple RCTs indicate that PQQ supplementation can improve cognitive function and brain metabolism in both healthy volunteers and elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment.
Physical Performance
Weak
Research into PQQ's effect on aerobic exercise performance and mitochondrial biogenesis in untrained men has been explored, though evidence is less robust than cognitive findings.
Effective doses
Specific dose ranges were not provided in the provided abstracts, though studies utilized dihydrogen-pyrroloquinoline quinone and PQQ disodium salt.
Safety & interactions
No specific interactions or contraindications were mentioned in the provided research summaries.
Limitations
The available evidence is based on a small number of studies with relatively small sample sizes. Long-term efficacy and optimal dosing protocols remain under-researched.
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Research evidence
Showing top 10 of 6 sources, sorted by quality
**Baltic et al., 2024** | J Nutr Health Aging | Rct Baltic Sonja, Nedeljkovic David, ... Ostojic Sergej M. The impact of six-week dihydrogen-pyrroloquinoline quinone supplementation on mitochondrial biomarkers, brain metabolism, and cogniti…
**Shiojima et al., 2022** | J Am Nutr Assoc | Rct Shiojima Yoshiaki, Takahashi Megumi, ... Akanuma Masanori. Effect of Dietary Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt on Cognitive Function in Healthy Volunteers: A Randomized, Double-Blind, P…
**Itoh et al., 2016** | Adv Exp Med Biol | Rct Itoh Yuji, Hine Kyoko, ... Sakatani Kaoru. Effect of the Antioxidant Supplement Pyrroloquinoline Quinone Disodium Salt (BioPQQ™) on Cognitive Functions. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2016;876:319-325. doi:…
**Hwang et al., 2020** | J Am Coll Nutr | Rct Hwang Paul S, Machek Steven B, ... Willoughby Darryn S. Effects of Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) Supplementation on Aerobic Exercise Performance and Indices of Mitochondrial Biogenesis in Untra…
**NCT ID**: NCT07148726 **Phase**: NA **Status**: COMPLETED **Enrollment**: 24 **Completion**: 2025-08-15
Brain function is important for a good quality of life. Pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium salt (PQQ) has been proven to improve brain function and cognition in older adults (above 45 years). In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, w…
Frequently asked questions
What is PQQ and what is it used for?
Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is an antioxidant supplement primarily studied for its potential to support mitochondrial function and cognitive performance. It is commonly used by consumers looking to support brain health and mental clarity across various age groups.
Does PQQ work for memory and cognitive decline?
There is moderate evidence that PQQ supplementation can improve cognitive function and brain metabolism in healthy volunteers and elderly individuals with mild cognitive impairment. Research indicates it may positively impact brain function in both younger and older adults, though it is not a cure for dementia.
Can PQQ improve physical exercise performance?
Evidence for PQQ's effect on physical performance is currently weak. While some research has explored its impact on aerobic exercise and mitochondrial biogenesis in untrained men, the findings are less robust than those for cognitive benefits, and more research is needed.
What is the effective dose of PQQ?
The provided evidence summary does not specify exact effective dose ranges for PQQ. Studies have utilized forms such as dihydrogen-pyrroloquinoline quinone and PQQ disodium salt, but specific dosage guidelines are not detailed in the available data.
Is PQQ safe to take with other medications?
No specific drug interactions or contraindications for PQQ were documented in the provided research summaries. However, because safety data is limited, individuals taking prescription medications should consult a healthcare provider before use to ensure there are no unforeseen risks.
Are there any side effects or safety concerns with PQQ?
The provided evidence does not list specific side effects or upper limits for PQQ. Due to the lack of comprehensive safety data, pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as those with underlying health conditions, should avoid using PQQ unless advised by a medical professional.
Who should avoid taking PQQ supplements?
Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid PQQ due to insufficient safety data for these populations. Additionally, anyone currently on medication or with a chronic health condition should consult a healthcare provider before starting supplementation to rule out potential risks.