red yeast rice extract


red yeast rice extract

A dietary herbal supplement derived from the mold Monascus purpureus. It contains 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors, is similar to the prescription drug lovastatin, has similar effects and side effects (including muscle injury with elevation of serum creatine kinase levels), and is promoted for its effect in lowering serum cholesterol and triglyceride. Synonym: Chinese red rice

CAUTION!

Side effects can include dizziness, gastritis, heartburn, flatulence, and elevated hepatic enzymes. It is chemically related to the statin class of cholesterol-lowering medications.
See also: extract