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ingestible · for high cholesterol support

Red Yeast Rice

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

Rahmani P 2023 Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol (PMID 36259545) - systematic review and meta-analysis of 24 treatment arms found red yeast rice supplementation reduced LDL cholesterol by a weighted mean difference of -28.94 mg/dL (95% CI -32.90 to -24.99, p < 0.001).$15-30/month

How to use

Take 1200-2400 mg red yeast rice daily in divided doses with meals. Use only products that have been third-party tested for monacolin K content and absence of citrinin (a nephrotoxic mycotoxin). Consult a physician before starting, especially if cholesterol is significantly elevated.

How it works

Red yeast rice contains monacolin K, a naturally occurring compound chemically identical to lovastatin. It inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis in the liver, lowering LDL production.

Where to buy

Jarrow Formulas Red Yeast Rice ($15-25 for 120 caps), Solaray Red Yeast Rice ($20-30 for 120 caps), NOW Foods Red Yeast Rice ($15-25 for 120 caps). Purchase only brands with independent COA (certificate of analysis) testing.

Typical cost: $15-30/month

Safety notes

Red yeast rice contains naturally occurring statins and carries similar risks: muscle pain or weakness (myopathy), liver enzyme elevation, and rarely rhabdomyolysis. Do NOT combine with prescription statins. Avoid with grapefruit juice, niacin, fibrates, cyclosporine, and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy. Some products contain varying or unlabeled amounts of monacolin K - use reputable third-party tested brands only.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

Clinical source

Rahmani P 2023 - Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol (PMID 36259545)

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.