Red yeast rice is a traditional Chinese medicinal product that also has culinary uses. It is made by culturing rice with specific strains of yeast. It is also marketed as a dietary supplement to reduce cholesterol and other fats in the blood. One of its constituents, monacolin K, also known as lovastatin, is an active ingredient in the cholesterol-lowering drug, Mevacor®. The drug works by inhibiting an enzyme essential for the creation of cholesterol in the body. Therefore, it is assumed that red yeast rice works through a similar mechanism.
Even though red yeast rice appears to reduce blood fats, it is not certain whether these products are safe. Some may contain a harmful contaminant or have side effects similar to certain cholesterol-lowering drugs. There have also been several case reports of adverse effects, so patients should discuss any use of this product with their healthcare provider.