Idebenone

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Idebenone
Systematic (IUPAC) name
2-(10-hydroxydecyl)-5,6-dimethoxy-3-methyl- cyclohexa-2,5-diene-1,4-dione
Identifiers
CAS number	58186-27-9
ATC code	N06BX13
PubChem	3686
Chemical data
Formula	C₁₉H₃₀O₅
Mol. mass	338.439 g/mol
Pharmacokinetic data
Bioavailability	?
Metabolism	?
Half life	?
Excretion	?
Therapeutic considerations
Pregnancy cat.	?
Legal status
Routes	?

Idebenone (pronounced eye-deb-eh-known) is an organic compound of the quinone family and promoted commercially as a synthetic analog of Coenzyme Q₁₀ (CoQ₁₀).

Idebenone is claimed to have properties similar to CoQ₁₀ in its antioxidant properties.^[specify] CoQ₁₀ is one of life's most essential biochemicals, hence its title "ubiquinone" (ubi=ubiquitous).

Idebenone is different from Coenzyme Q₁₀ in one very important way. During a hypoxic (low oxygen) condition, CoQ₁₀ can switch function from an anti-oxidizing to an auto-oxidizing process. This auto-oxidation rapidly produces free radicals which damage the tissues of the body.^{[verification needed]}

Idebenone is said to perform the same functions as CoQ₁₀ without the risk of an auto-oxidation reaction.^{[verification needed]}

Idebenone is said to promote NGF (nerve growth factor) in the brain.^{[verification needed]} It appears to reduce tinnitus (ringing in the ears).^{[verification needed]} Idebenone has also been used in topical applications to treat wrinkles.