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RYR
Botanicals
Red Yeast Rice
Statin-like ingredient variability; safety concerns resemble statins (muscle/liver/drug interactions).
What it is
Red yeast rice may lower LDL when it contains monacolin K (lovastatin-like). Monacolin content varies widely; safety concerns and drug interactions are statin-like.
How it works
Monacolin K inhibits HMG‑CoA reductase, reducing cholesterol synthesis (statin-like).
What the evidence says
LDL lowering is plausible when monacolin K is present, but product variability and statin-like safety risks limit safe self-directed use.
Safety Notes
- Regulators note safety concerns for monacolins; product variability and contamination risks are important.
- Not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
- Use caution with: pregnancy, active liver disease.
- statins: Additive risk of myopathy/hepatotoxicity; avoid unless clinician-directed.
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (some): May increase statin-like exposure and adverse effects; clinician review recommended.