Rice fermented with the yeast Monascus purpureus, naturally synthesizing monacolins, principally Monacolin K (which is chemically identical to the statin drug lovastatin). Monacolin K competitively inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme in hepatic cholesterol synthesis, rapidly lowering LDL and total cholesterol.
Educational information only — never stop or change a prescribed medication without talking to your prescriber first.
Shares potential side effects with statin drugs (muscle pain, myopathy, elevated liver enzymes). ALWAYS co-supplement with Coenzyme Q10 (100-200 mg/day) as HMG-CoA reductase inhibition depletes endogenous CoQ10. Ensure products are tested free of the fungal mycotoxin citrinin. Do not take if pregnant, nursing, or suffering from liver disease.
Evidence level: Strong
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