Fact Check: Is pqq safe?

Is PQQ Safe?

Introduction

The claim regarding the safety of pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) has garnered attention as this compound is increasingly marketed as a nutritional supplement. Proponents assert that PQQ is safe for consumption, often highlighting its potential health benefits. However, it is essential to critically evaluate the evidence surrounding its safety profile.

What We Know

PQQ is a redox cofactor involved in various biological processes, particularly in energy metabolism. Research indicates that PQQ supplementation may have positive effects on cognitive function and cellular health. Several studies have been conducted to assess its safety:

1. A study published in 2017 reviewed twelve clinical trials involving PQQ, with doses up to 100 mg/day administered for up to 24 weeks. The authors concluded that these studies did not raise any safety concerns regarding PQQ supplementation [2].

2. Another article from 2024 discusses the safety of PQQ, stating that no toxicity or genotoxicity has been reported in various studies, suggesting that it is considered a safe nutritional supplement [1].

3. The FDA has classified PQQ disodium salt as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS), based on animal toxicity studies that support its safety for human consumption [3].

4. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in 2024 also supports the assertion that PQQ disodium salt can be safely consumed as part of daily life [6].

Analysis

While the available studies suggest that PQQ is safe for consumption, it is crucial to evaluate the reliability and potential biases of these sources:

1. Study Design and Sample Size: The studies referenced, particularly those cited in [2] and [6], involve clinical trials with varying sample sizes and methodologies. A thorough examination of these studies would be necessary to assess their robustness. For instance, the duration of the studies and the demographics of participants could influence the generalizability of the findings.

2. Source Credibility: The articles from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) [1] and the FDA [3] are reputable sources, providing a level of credibility to their claims. However, the studies cited in these articles should be scrutinized for their methodologies and potential conflicts of interest.

3. Potential Conflicts of Interest: Some sources, particularly those from commercial entities or health blogs, may have inherent biases. For example, the promotion of PQQ as a supplement could be influenced by financial interests, which may not be disclosed. Articles from platforms like Zhihu [4], [5], and [7] may not always provide scientifically rigorous information and could be influenced by the popularity of PQQ in health and wellness circles.

4. Lack of Long-Term Data: While short-term studies indicate safety, there is limited data on the long-term effects of PQQ supplementation. Additional long-term studies would be beneficial to fully understand any potential risks associated with prolonged use.

5. Diverse Opinions: Some discussions surrounding PQQ also highlight anecdotal experiences and subjective opinions regarding its effectiveness and safety, which should be approached with caution.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The evidence reviewed suggests that pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is safe for consumption, as indicated by multiple studies and regulatory assessments. Key findings supporting this conclusion include the FDA's classification of PQQ disodium salt as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS), the absence of reported toxicity in clinical trials, and the conclusions drawn from a comprehensive review of existing research.

However, it is important to note that while short-term studies indicate safety, there is a lack of long-term data on the effects of PQQ supplementation. The methodologies of the studies and potential biases in source credibility should also be considered when interpreting these findings.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate the information presented and consider the limitations of the available evidence. Further research, particularly long-term studies, would be beneficial to fully understand the safety profile of PQQ.

What Additional Information Would Be Helpful?

To further assess the safety of PQQ, additional information would be beneficial, including:

• Long-term studies evaluating the effects of PQQ over extended periods.
• Meta-analyses that compile data from multiple studies to provide a more comprehensive view of safety and efficacy.
• Independent reviews from unbiased health organizations that do not have financial ties to PQQ manufacturers.

Sources

1. T Yan. "Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ): Its impact on human ..." PMC. Link
2. D Turck. "Safety of pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium salt as a novel ..." PMC. Link
3. "GRAS Notice 709, Pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium salt." FDA. Link
4. "PQQ（吡咯喹啉醌） - 知乎." Zhihu. Link
5. "【抗衰必看】一文讲清 NMN、AKG、PQQ、尿石素A、麦角硫 ..." Zhihu. Link
6. Y Shiojima. "A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study." ScienceDirect. Link
7. "踩坑血泪经验贴｜一篇讲清楚网红抗衰成分NMN、PQQ ..." Zhihu. Link
8. "想知道PQQ这个成分对人体有哪些好处？ - 知乎." Zhihu. Link