Uses of Idebenone

Idebenone is used in the treatment of Friedreich’s ataxia (a rare inherited disease that cause progressive nervous system damage and movement problems) and vision impairment in Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy, which is a genetic disorder that cause vision loss in affected individuals.

Therapeutic Category

Idebenone: Antioxidant

How Idebenone works

Idebenone works by preventing the oxidation of cells from free radicals (molecules involved in illness/aging process that cause damage to the cell) which leads to reduced neural damage in spinal cord and peripheral nerves thus improving neural effects in patients affected by Friedreich’s ataxia. The medicine also helps in restoring energy and reactivating inactive retinal ganglion cells (nerve cells that act as a crucial communication channel between retina and brain) which results in vision recovery and prevents further vision loss due to Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy in affected individuals.

Common side effects of Idebenone

• Nasopharyngitis (cold)
• Cough
• Diarrhea
• Back pain

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage or ingestion

Health Tips for Idebenone

• Take Idebenone with food which helps to get more of the medicine from your stomach into your blood. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose
• Avoid consumption of alcohol or caffeine while taking Idebenone, as alcohol may increase the risk of side effects
• Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, as hydration is important for overall health
• Maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular physical activity, manage stress, and get sufficient sleep to support overall well-being
• Regular check-ups and follow-up appointments with your medical team are important to monitor your progress and address any concerns
• Tell your doctor if you are taking, have recently taken any other medicines, especially to treat insomnia (midazolam, triazolam), lower cholesterol levels or for prevention of cardiovascular disease (atorvastatin, lovastatin, simvastatin), antihistamines to treat allergies (astemizol, mizolastin, terfenadine, heartburn (cisaprid)
• Idebenone should be used with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women