Contents
- 10 Best PQQ Supplements
- What Are PQQ Supplements?
- Side Effects of PQQ Supplement
- How Did We Evaluate The Best PQQ Supplements?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
PQQ, or pyrroloquinoline quinone, is a natural compound present in foods like kiwi, green peppers, and fermented soybeans. These sources often fail to provide sufficient amounts of PQQ, which could make you look for additional support.
The PQQ supplements may help support cellular energy production, provide cognitive support, and lower inflammation.
However, PQQ supplements differ in quality or efficacy. Differences in PQQ type, such as PQQ disodium salt and BioPQQ®, along with variations in dosage and manufacturing standards, can significantly affect their quality and effectiveness.
In this listicle, we discussed the 10 best PQQ supplements, based on their formulation quality, brand reputation, user feedback, and overall value.
10 Best PQQ Supplements
XGold Health PQQ Supplement

According to the official site, XGold Health’s PQQ Supplement provides 20 mg of pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) per capsule. PQQ is an antioxidant that may promote cellular metabolism and combat free radicals, both of which may support immunity.
The XGold Health PQQ Supplement contains 120 vegetarian capsules per bottle, which may typically last a 4-month supply when taken at the recommended dose of 1 capsule per day. The makers state that the formulation is also vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free, ensuring compatibility with multiple dietary preferences.
Pros
- May help lower inflammation markers in the body.
- Could support a healthy immune system and lower oxidative stress.
- Might help delay age-related cognitive decline.
- Made in GMP-certified facilities in the USA under strict quality
Cons
- May trigger headaches or dizziness.
- Variations in results and effectiveness.
Doctors Best – PQQ

Doctor’s Best PQQ formulation contains BioPQQ®, a patented and researched form of pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium salt. BioPQQ® may activate a protein called PGC-1α, which signals your cells to produce more mitochondria. The process could help boost your energy levels and lower fatigue.
Research suggests that BioPQQ may also support the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) protein that may help your brain grow new nerve cells and keep them healthy. It might support memory, learning, and cognitive processing.
Pros
- May support cardiovascular health by shielding heart cells from oxidative damage.
- Could support a healthy metabolism and boost endurance.
- Provides flexible subscription options, with delivery intervals of 30, 60, and 90 days.
Cons
- Some users may experience jitters or energy crashes during initial use.
- It is comparatively more expensive than PQQ formulations from competitive brands.
Life Extension PQQ

Life Extension PQQ may support cellular energy production, which could help support vitality. According to the official site, each vegetarian capsule features 20 mg of PQQ, offering a total of 30 capsules per bottle.
Mitochondria are responsible for generating ATP, which helps in muscle movement and cognitive processing. Life Extension PQQ aims to delay age-related decline in mitochondrial efficiency, potentially supporting sustained energy output and cellular resilience.
PQQ may impact how your body handles fats by working with a gene called PPAR-α, which may help support healthy cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health.
Pros
- Offers a 365-day money-back guarantee on purchases.
- May support nerve growth factor synthesis, thereby promoting cognitive health.
- Could help improve sleep quality and duration.
- Provides flexibility to choose from PQQ concentrations of 10mg and 20mg per serving.
Cons
- Not safe for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- May trigger side effects like chest discomfort or palpitations.
Health Thru Nutrition PQQ

Health Thru Nutrition PQQ formula features PureQQ™, a purified form of pyrroloquinoline quinone disodium salt. PureQQ™ may assist in oxidation-reduction reactions that are essential for cellular energy transfer. It may help lower oxidative stress, protecting bodily cells from damage that may otherwise slow down energy production.
According to the official site, one veggie capsule of Health Thru Nutrition PQQ provides 108mg of calcium phosphate and 20mg of PureQQ™. Calcium phosphate can supply both calcium and phosphate ions, which are critical for the formation and maintenance of hydroxyapatite. It is a mineral component that may give your bones and teeth their strength and rigidity.
Pros
- Offers a vegan-friendly, soy-free, and non-GMO formula.
- The formulation is NSF-certified, ensuring that it remains free of banned substances.
- May offer cognitive and cardiovascular support.
- Comes in different serving sizes, with 30, 60, and 120 capsules per bottle.
Cons
- Some users found the taste earthy and unappealing.
- May cause temporary changes in appetite or mood.
NatureBell PQQ with CoQ10

NatureBell PQQ with CoQ10 offers a dual-ingredient formula that pairs 40 mg of pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) with 10 mg of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) per two-capsule serving. Marketed under the name ZenPQQ+, both compounds may support cellular energy metabolism.
CoQ10 may help stabilize mitochondrial membranes and decrease oxidative stress in brain cells. These effects may help support synaptic function, aid neurotransmitter balance, and slow age-related neuronal degeneration.
The makers state that NatureBell PQQ with CoQ10 formulation contains 240 capsules per bottle, which typically lasts a 4-month supply when taken at the recommended daily dose of 2 capsules.
Pros
- Comes in a double-sealed, UV-protected amber bottle to preserve potency and freshness.
- Maintains transparency by sharing the Certificate of Analysis for each production batch.
- Is free from common allergens, such as wheat, dairy, peanuts, eggs, and fish.
Cons
- May not be safe for use for those with pre-existing liver or kidney concerns.
- May cause sleep disturbances if taken too late in the day.
Double Wood Supplements PQQ

Double Wood Supplements claims that its PQQ formulation may provide targeted support for energy, brain health, and cellular function. PQQ acts as a redox agent, meaning it may combat harmful oxidants in your body, which might help strengthen your body’s natural immune defenses. PQQ may help improve your sleep quality by supporting balanced cortisol levels.
The makers suggest consuming 1–2 capsules daily, although they recommend not consuming more than four capsules per day to ensure safe usage. Double Wood Supplements PQQ formula is also made in the USA using globally sourced ingredients.
Pros
- May support muscle function and recovery.
- Could help lower stress levels and provide mild analgesic (pain-relieving) effects.
- Third-party tested to ensure formulation potency, safety, and quality.
- Offers double-pack and triple-pack options to ensure consistency in supplementation.
Cons
- May trigger potential allergic reactions, such as rash, redness, or increased skin sensitivity.
- Could negatively interact with blood-thinning medications or psychotropic drugs.
Horbäach PQQ Capsules

As per the official site, every 2-capsule serving of Horbäach PQQ formulation offers 40mg of pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ). Supplementing with PQQ could help support cognitive health, blood circulation, cellular performance, and muscle function.
The makers state that Horbäach’s PQQ provides capsules in a quick-release format, which may offer faster absorption than standard PQQ formulas. Horbäach PQQ Capsules are also marketed as being free from common allergens, such as lactose, artificial sweeteners, yeast, GMOs, and soy.
Pros
- The quick-release capsule form may support consistent absorption.
- Could help support a healthy metabolism and promote fat oxidation.
Cons
- The large capsule size might be difficult to swallow for some users.
- May trigger drowsiness or fatigue in some users.
Toniiq PQQ 99%

According to the official site, Toniiq PQQ 99% formulation provides 40mg of pyrroloquinoline quinone per capsule. It features a high concentration of PQQ standardized to 99%, which may offer better absorption and bioavailability than standard PQQ formulas.
PQQ could support your body’s natural detoxification processes by activating the NRF2 protein, which influences detox and antioxidant enzymes. These enzymes, like glutathione S-transferase and superoxide dismutase, could help your body break down and remove harmful toxins.
The makers state that Toniiq PQQ 99% formulation undergoes a 5 Point Testing Program, which screens for the presence of heavy metals, content of active ingredients in raw material, content of active ingredients in finished product, and microbiology testing.
Pros
- Opting for a subscription provides an extra 15% discount on the retail price.
- Requires a convenient dosage intake of just one capsule daily.
- Provides free shipping on orders worth $99 or above.
Cons
- May cause potential neurotoxicity with prolonged use.
- Might not be safe for users with autoimmune conditions.
NOW Extra Strength PQQ

As per the official site, NOW Extra Strength PQQ pairs 40 mg of pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) with 200 mg of alpha lipoic acid in each vegetarian capsule. PQQ may help support the energy-producing structures inside cells, providing cellular support for the heart and brain.
Research indicates that alpha-lipoic acid supports the synthesis of enzymes like pyruvate dehydrogenase that turn glucose into ATP (your body’s energy source). It also helps recycle antioxidants like vitamin C and glutathione, which may promote sustained energy release.
The NOW Extra Strength PQQ formulation features 50 capsules per bottle, with the maker’s recommended dosage of one veggie capsule per day.
Pros
- Offers a Kosher, halal, and vegan formula, ensuring dietary inclusivity.
- Provides free U.S. shipping on orders worth $50 and more.
- The inclusion of alpha-lipoic acid may support heart health.
Cons
- The high concentration of 40mg PQQ per capsule may not be well-tolerated by some users.
- Might trigger a potential risk of dependence.
Carlyle Nutritionals – PQQ

According to the official site, one quick-release capsule of Carlyle PQQ features 20mg of PQQ, which may help lower fatigue and support focus. The formulation may be particularly beneficial if you are seeking to support cognitive performance, cardiovascular function, or metabolic health.
The Carlyle Nutritionals brand states that its PQQ formulation is laboratory tested, indicating it meets strict quality and safety standards. Carlyle Nutritionals PQQ also remains free from allergens, such as wheat, artificial color, milk, yeast, and GMOs.
Pros
- Could help reduce brain fog and improve focus.
- Might help support skin hydration and soothe dryness.
- Does not contain artificial sweeteners, fillers, or preservatives.
Cons
- Absorption and effectiveness might vary between users.
- High doses may increase oxidative stress rather than reduce it.
What Are PQQ Supplements?
PQQ supplements provide a concentrated form of pyrroloquinoline quinone, typically as capsules, powders, softgels, or gummies. These formulations may come in doses ranging from about 10–40 milligrams per serving. You may find these supplements as standalone PQQ or blended with other ingredients like CoQ10, which may support cellular metabolism.
Research highlights that pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) supplementation may reduce weight by enhancing mitochondrial function, improving fat metabolism, and lowering inflammation. Animal studies show that PQQ decreases liver and visceral fat, activates energy-regulating pathways like AMPK and PGC‑1α, and suppresses inflammatory markers. It may also offer long-term metabolic benefits when used during early development. However, human trials are still needed to confirm these effects and determine safe, effective dosing.
Side Effects of PQQ Supplement
Headaches
Headaches are a commonly reported side effect of PQQ supplements, which may develop shortly after you begin supplementation or when the dosage is increased. The headaches are typically mild to moderate, but might also become persistent and disruptive.
PQQ supplements stimulate pathways like PGC-1α and CREB, which boost cellular energy production. The sudden shift may temporarily raise oxidative stress or alter nitric oxide levels, factors that affect blood vessel tone and blood flow in your brain. Such changes may trigger headaches as a side effect.
Nausea
PQQ supplementation may trigger nausea, particularly during the early stages of use. It often presents as a mild queasiness or, in some cases, a stronger urge to vomit. The PQQ supplements may overstimulate oxidative metabolism in intestinal cells and increase the generation of reactive oxygen species. Such effects may irritate your stomach lining or interfere with gut-brain signaling, which can trigger nausea. You’re more likely to experience nausea if you take PQQ supplements on an empty stomach or in higher-than-recommended doses.
Digestive Upset
Digestive upset is a common side effect of PQQ supplementation, especially if you have a sensitive stomach or overconsume the supplements. Common symptoms include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and gut irritability.
As your body breaks down the PQQ compound, it may alter gut motility and hormone signaling. PQQ may fluctuate the levels of digestive peptides like gastrin, motilin, and vasoactive intestinal peptide. These peptides help support digestion and bowel movement regulation, which means any changes in their level could trigger gastrointestinal discomfort.
Insomnia or Restlessness
PQQ supplements may overstimulate your nervous system by promoting increased cellular activity and raising mental alertness. While the energy boost might feel helpful during the day, it may backfire at night, making it harder for you to wind down, fall asleep, or stay asleep.
The PQQ compound may influence neurotransmitters linked to wakefulness, such as dopamine, which could throw off your natural sleep-wake cycle. Such effects might contribute to restlessness, particularly common when taking PQQ supplements late in the day or alongside other stimulants like caffeine.
Fatigue or Low Energy
Even though PQQ supplements are marketed to boost energy levels, you might feel drained after taking them. The PQQ compound may activate enzymes that affect the NAD⁺/NADH balance and ATP production, essential processes of your body’s energy cycle. In some cases, the sudden shift may lower energy levels instead of raising them, especially during initial use.
PQQ supplements may also trigger a mild detox effect by increasing oxidative stress or putting more pressure on your mitochondria, which could make you feel more sluggish. Taking PQQ supplements without food may worsen the feelings of fatigue.
Heart Palpitations or Rapid Heartbeat
PQQ supplements may trigger episodes of heart palpitations or a rapid heartbeat, especially if you’re sensitive to stimulatory compounds or have underlying cardiovascular concerns. Biologically, the effect is often linked to PQQ’s role in enhancing cellular metabolism and increasing ATP production. As your cells ramp up their energy output, it may indirectly stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to a heightened heart rate.
The PQQ compound may influence catecholamine activity, particularly norepinephrine levels, which might contribute to an elevated heart rate and blood pressure. If you have any history of arrhythmia, high blood pressure, or other cardiac issues, it’s strongly advised to consult a doctor before considering PQQ supplementation.
How Did We Evaluate The Best PQQ Supplements?
Value For Money
When evaluating the value of each PQQ supplement, we looked closely at the price per bottle with the number of capsules provided to determine affordability over time. NatureBell’s PQQ with CoQ10 offers value with a 240-capsule bottle priced at $28.95. Similarly, Horbäach PQQ Capsules provide 120 capsules per jar and cost $19.79. It is followed by Carlyle PQQ Capsules, which cost $9.99 for one jar (with 60 capsules).
XGold Health’s PQQ Supplement balances cost and quantity by providing one bottle with 120 veggie capsules for $24.90. Toniiq’s PQQ 99% Capsules are priced at $33.30 for one jar (with 120 capsules), offering a high-potency PQQ formula. Meanwhile, Life Extension PQQ formulation is priced at $9.60 for one bottle, which provides 30 capsules.
Double Wood Supplements PQQ comes in at $19.95 for a bottle with 60 capsules, which may offer a balance between quality and price. Health Thru Nutrition PQQ formulation costs $11.99 for one jar with 30 capsules, placing it in the mid-range category.
The Doctor’s Best PQQ formulation offers one bottle with 30 capsules for $22.99, making it one of the more expensive options on the list. However, NOW’s Extra Strength PQQ Capsules formula is the most expensive, costing $49.99 for one bottle that provides 50 capsules.
Returns and Refund Policy
When evaluating the best PQQ supplements, we closely examined each brand’s returns and refund policy, focusing on both the duration and the flexibility of the terms. Life Extension offers a generous 365-day refund window for products purchased via its website. You can ask for an exchange or a refund, though not all products qualify for online returns.
Health Thru Nutrition and NatureBell both followed with consumer-friendly policies, providing full 90-day money-back guarantees from the delivery date. Their refund terms state that the brands accept returns for any reason with no restocking or return fees, and refunds can be issued to the original payment method.
Doctor’s Best offers a 60-day refund policy, though some formulations may only qualify for refunds, not replacements. Toniiq also lists a 60-day money-back guarantee, but its terms are far more restrictive. Refunds from Toniiq are limited to three individual products after two weeks of use, and exclusions apply to discounted items, reward-point purchases, gift cards, and supplements.
Other brands like XGold Health, Double Wood Supplements, Horbäach, and Carlyle Nutritionals all offer a 30-day refund window on purchases, with some variations in their terms. For instance, XGold Health requires you to email a written explanation of dissatisfaction and only honors refunds for purchases made through their website, Amazon, or Walmart.com. Double Wood Supplements grants a 30-day refund window, but only on the first bottle. Horbäach and Carlyle Nutritionals each provide 30-day refund policies with a full refund if expectations aren’t met, though both require you to pay for return shipping and handling.
NOW Foods features the most restrictive refund policy, allowing returns only within 30 days of purchase and strictly for unopened items bought through its website. Shipping costs are not covered.
Brand Credibility
In evaluating the brand credibility for the 10 PQQ supplements, we considered both Trustpilot and BBB ratings, giving greater weight to Trustpilot ratings in the review.
Health Thru Nutrition maintains a 4.8 out of 5 Trustpilot rating based on over 160 reviews, although the brand lacks any presence on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) platform. Life Extension followed with a 4.4 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot from more than 400 reviews, although the brand does not have any presence on BBB.
Meanwhile, Toniiq has a 3.8 out of 5 rating from 25+ reviews on Trustpilot, but no profile on BBB. It is followed by Double Wood Supplements, which holds a 3.5 out of 5 rating from 145+ reviews across Trustpilot, supported by an “A+” BBB rating.
Brands like XGold Health, Horbäach, NOW Foods, and Carlyle Nutritionals all had unclaimed or unrated Trustpilot profiles. However, XGold Health holds an “A+” rating on BBB. Similarly, NOW Foods also held an “A+” BBB rating, possibly indicating good standards of customer responsiveness of the brand.
Horbäach maintains an “A” rating on BBB due to its business and operational longevity. Carlyle Nutritionals has a lower “A-” BBB rating, which is possibly due to a few complaints filed against the brand.
Doctor’s Best and NatureBell brands ranked lowest in credibility. Both lacked a presence on Trustpilot and had no active BBB profiles, offering no insights into their third-party assurance status. The absence of public-facing ratings made it difficult to verify how these brands handle customer concerns or maintain service quality over time.
Real Customer Feedback
For the evaluation of the best PQQ formulations, we assessed each of their authentic customer reviews on Amazon to get insights into the real-world effectiveness of the supplements.
Many consumers praised the XGold Health PQQ formulation for its effects on energy, focus, and physical stamina. Users observed improved sleep quality, relief from fatigue, and better muscle recovery after using the formula. However, a few users experienced mild insomnia with higher doses.
Consumers who tried Doctor’s Best PQQ formulation cited improvements in cognition and alertness, particularly in boosting focus. Many users also appreciated its small capsule size and additive-free formula, though concerns were raised about occasional inconsistencies in capsule count. Similarly, many users appreciated the neurological and cognitive support provided by Life Extension PQQ, although a few consumers expressed minor packaging discrepancies.
NatureBell PQQ with CoQ10 earned praise on Amazon for its energy-boosting and memory-enhancing effects, especially among older users. However, some customers observed no noticeable improvements in energy or focus despite consistent use. Users praised Double Wood Supplements’ PQQ for supporting focus and mental clarity, but a few customers found its pricing as expensive.
On Amazon, many users appreciated the Health Thru Nutrition PQQ formula for its fast-acting benefits, particularly in boosting energy, reducing daytime fatigue, and supporting heart health. However, some consumers noted side effects such as headaches or mild digestive upset, likely due to dosage sensitivity. Horbäach PQQ formulation received positive feedback for its budget-friendly pricing and antioxidant support, although some consumers did not observe any significant benefits.
Toniiq PQQ 99% was appreciated for its potency and noticeable impact on focus and sleep, though effectiveness varied, with a few users questioning its reliability or noting packaging concerns. Meanwhile, many customers appreciated the NOW Extra Strength PQQ formula for supporting focus and energy levels.
Based on Amazon reviews, Carlyle Nutritionals PQQ delivered value and mild joint or muscle pain relief, though the results were often subtle. However, many users viewed it more as a preventive supplement than one that delivers immediate results.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is There A Risk of Kidney Damage With PQQ Supplementation?
Possibly. Overconsumption or prolonged use of PQQ supplements may trigger kidney toxicity, especially if you have pre-existing kidney concerns, such as chronic kidney disease. - Are There Differences Between Synthetic and Natural PQQ Sources?
Yes. Most PQQ supplements are made via bacterial fermentation, resulting in a synthetic form that is chemically similar to naturally occurring PQQ found in foods like natto, kiwi, and green peppers. However, natural PQQ from foods is accompanied by other nutrients and cofactors, which may influence its bioavailability and absorption compared to isolated, synthetic PQQ. - Do All PQQ Forms (Disodium Salt vs. Acid) Work the Same?
No. PQQ supplements are available as either the acid form or the disodium salt. However, most PQQ brands integrate the disodium salt due to its greater water solubility and stability. - Can PQQ Supplements Lose Potency Over Time?
Yes, PQQ supplements can lose potency over time if exposed to light, air, or moisture, as these factors may promote chemical degradation or oxidation. While PQQ is relatively stable compared to some antioxidants, improper storage may still reduce its effectiveness.
Conclusion
Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) supplementation might support mitochondrial health, cognitive function, and cardiovascular protection. That said, PQQ supplementation may be more relevant if your body experiences high oxidative stress, chronic fatigue, or age-related cognitive decline.
Before choosing a PQQ supplement, it’s important to consider factors such as dosage strength, bioavailability (often improved when combined with CoQ10), delivery method (capsules vs. softgels), and third-party quality testing.
Some PQQ formulations may also include unnecessary additives or synthetic binders, which may negatively impact their tolerability and absorption. Taking high doses or prolonged use of PQQ supplements may trigger side effects like insomnia, headaches, dizziness, digestive discomfort, or fatigue.
In rare cases, overstimulation of mitochondrial activity caused by PQQ may interfere with brain neurotransmitters, thereby triggering mood swings or appetite changes.
While PQQ supplements are promoted for their potential to enhance mitochondrial function, they’re not the only way to support cellular energy and resilience. Every day lifestyle choices can play a significant role in maintaining mitochondrial health, often without the need for supplementation. A diet rich in antioxidant-containing foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and seeds may help counter oxidative stress, which contributes to mitochondrial damage over time. Consistent aerobic exercise, such as running, walking, or cycling, can stimulate mitochondrial biogenesis, helping your cells produce energy more efficiently.
Reducing exposure to environmental toxins like pesticides, industrial chemicals, and plastic additives may also protect mitochondrial function by easing your body’s oxidative load. Taken together, these natural habits offer a sustainable way to support mitochondrial vitality and cellular health.
Rachel has been a freelance medical writer for more than 18 years. She graduated from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville in 2005 and is currently practicing as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist at a Level I trauma center.


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