red yeast rice

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

The actions of red yeast rice are primarily related to its ability to lower cholesterol levels. Monacolin K inhibits an enzyme in the liver that is involved in cholesterol synthesis, which results in a reduction in circulating levels of LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol.

Red yeast rice may also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The spectrum of red yeast rice is primarily focused on its potential benefits for cardiovascular health. I

t has been shown to help reduce cholesterol levels and may also help to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Some studies have also suggested that red yeast rice may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that could help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined  

Anaphylaxis  

Abdominal discomfort  

Dizziness  

Elevated liver enzymes  

Elevated creatine kinase  

Flatulence  

Heartburn  

Gastritis

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

The black box warning for red yeast rice is related to its potential to cause liver damage. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: There is insufficient evidence to determine the safety of red yeast rice during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Therefore, it is best to avoid using it during these times. 
• Liver disease: red yeast rice can cause liver damage, particularly in people with pre-existing liver disease or those who consume alcohol regularly. 
• Muscle pain or weakness: red yeast rice can cause muscle pain or weakness, particularly in people who are also taking other medications that can cause these side effects. 
• Kidney disease: red yeast rice can worsen kidney function in people with pre-existing kidney disease. 
• Bleeding disorders: red yeast rice can increase the risk of bleeding in people with bleeding disorders or those who are taking blood-thinning medications. 
• Grapefruit: red yeast rice should not be taken with grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as this can increase the risk of side effects. 
• Other medications: red yeast rice can interact with other medications, including blood-thinning medications, cholesterol-lowering medications, and antibiotics. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking red yeast rice if you are taking any other medications. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy warnings:     

Pregnancy category: not safe 

Lactation: use caution 

Pregnancy Categories:         

Category A: Studies that were well-controlled and met expectations revealed no risk to the fetus in either the first or second trimester. 

Category B: There were lack of studies on pregnant women and no evidence of risk to the foetus in animal experiments.   

Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.    

Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.   

Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.    

Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category  

Pharmacology

Pharmacology:  

red yeast rice contains a group of natural compounds called monacolins, which are structurally similar to the prescription medication lovastatin. Lovastatin is a type of statin drug that is commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Because of this similarity, red yeast rice has been studied for its potential to lower cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health. 

Pharmacodynamics: 

The pharmacodynamics of RYR mainly involves its ability to reduce cholesterol levels by inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver. Monacolin K works by inhibiting the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase, which is involved in the production of cholesterol in the liver. By blocking this enzyme, RYR reduces the amount of cholesterol that is synthesized in the liver, leading to lower levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides in the blood.

Pharmacokinetics: 

Absorption  

The active compounds in red yeast rice, known as monacolins, are primarily absorbed in the small intestine.  

Distribution  

Once absorbed, monacolins are distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. They have been found to accumulate in the liver, which is responsible for metabolizing them.  

Metabolism  

They are metabolized in the liver by enzymes such as cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. One of the main monacolins in RYR, monacolin K (also known as lovastatin), is metabolized by CYP3A4.   

Elimination and Excretion  

The metabolites of monacolins are excreted primarily through the feces. There is limited data on the extent of renal excretion.

Adminstartion

Administration:  

red yeast rice is a traditional Chinese food that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various health issues, including high cholesterol. It is made by fermenting rice with a type of yeast called Monascus purpureus, which produces a red-colored compound called monacolin K, also known as lovastatin. 

red yeast rice is available in the form of dietary supplements, which can be taken orally. Here are some general guidelines for the administration of red yeast rice: 

The dosage of red yeast rice supplements can vary depending on the product and the concentration of monacolin K. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage. 

red yeast rice supplements are usually taken once or twice a day, with meals. Taking it with food can help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: red yeast rice 

Why do we use red yeast rice? 

red yeast rice is used primarily to help lower cholesterol levels, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol. The active ingredient in red yeast rice is monacolin K, which is structurally identical to the prescription statin drug lovastatin.