Red Yeast Rice
What is Red Yeast Rice?
Red yeast rice (a.k.a. Hong qu) results from the fermentation of white rice with the red yeast Monascus purpureus, and has been used both medicinally and as a food additive in China for centuries.
The active ingredients in red yeast rice are the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors monacolin I (a.k.a. lovastatin) and monacolin II. Also known as statins, these reductase inhibitors give red yeast rice its cholesterol-lowering properties.
Lovastatin, one of the active ingredients in red yeast rice, is classified as a drug by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and can not legally be sold over the counter. Thus, an ongoing battle has ensued between the FDA and supplement manufacturers as to whether red yeast rice is covered by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. Supplements protected under DSHEA are not subject to FDA regulation, unlike prescription drugs.
Health Benefits
Research studies show that red yeast rice helps lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and triglyceride levels in certain individuals. Some of these subjects also enjoyed an increase in HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels.
Usage Indications
Because of the nature of the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors contained in red yeast rice, the supplement should only be used under medical direction and supervision.
General recommended dosage: 2400mg daily in divided doses
Take with food.
Red yeast rice is available in capsules (400 mg, 600 mg) and tablets (600 mg extended release)
- Side effects: May cause myopathy in some individuals – report any sudden muscle tenderness or weakness immediately. Red yeast rice may also lower levels of CoQ10 (an important antioxidant) and increase levels of creatine kinase. Other side effects include heartburn, flatulence and stomach discomfort.
- Indications: Pregnant women and nursing mothers, or those likely to get pregnant should avoid using this supplement. Individuals with a history of liver disease or those who use alcohol frequently should seek medical advice before using this supplement. Those using red yeast rice in treatment of hyperlipidemia must be medically supervised.
- Drug Interactions: Red yeast rice interacts with azole antifungals; cyclosporine; fibrates; gemfibrozil; macrolide antibiotics; nefazodone; protease inhibitors; statins; warfarin; nicotinic acid; grapefruit juice.
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Product List for Red Yeast Rice |
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