Red Yeast Rice Supplements: Benefits, Dosage and Safety
Red yeast rice supplements lower LDL cholesterol because they can contain monacolin K, chemically identical to the statin lovastatin. That also means statin-like side effects. Products vary hugely in monacolin content and some contain a kidney toxin called citrinin.
Evidence at a glance
| Use | Grade | What the research shows |
|---|---|---|
| Lowering LDL cholesterol | B | Works when monacolin K is present. |
A: strong, consistent human evidence · B: moderate · C: limited or mixed · D: good evidence of no benefit.
Red yeast rice is made by fermenting rice with a yeast used in traditional Chinese medicine.
How to take it
Use only with your doctor's knowledge, and never alongside a statin. See supplements for high cholesterol.
Safety and interactions
Muscle pain, liver problems and drug interactions are possible, as with statins.
Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about the supplements you take. Check combinations with our interaction checker.
Sources
This page is for education and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor. Read our medical disclaimer.