Red Yeast

How does Red Yeast work?

Red yeast supplements are manufactured by culturing Monascus purpureus yeast on rice at carefully controlled temperature and growing conditions to increase the concentrations of chemicals that lower blood cholesterol and triglycerides. These chemicals are similar to the prescription drugs known as "statins," including lovastatin (Mevacor) and others.

Are there safety concerns?

Red yeast rice might be safe when taken by mouth for up to 3 months. There isn't enough information to know if taking it for longer periods is safe. It can cause stomach discomfort, heartburn, intestinal gas, and dizziness.

Red yeast rice often contains chemicals similar to the prescription drugs called "statins." Therefore, red yeast can cause side effects similar to statin drugs such as liver damage and severe muscle pain and muscle damage. Red yeast rice should not be used without the supervision of a health care provider.

Do not take red yeast if:

• You are pregnant or breast-feeding.
• You have liver disease.