Red Yeast Rice: Risks, Side Effects & FDA Regulations

Red yeast rice is a popular nutritional supplement used to reduce cholesterol, fight diabetes and prevent coronary heart disease. It is associated with some risks and negative side effects.

FDA Regulation

• After an FDA ban of red yeast rice products containing lovastatin, the primary active compound in the supplement, most of the theoretical risks associated with red yeast rice were eliminated.

Statin-Like Side Effects

• Although commercial red yeast rice products no longer legally contain lovastatin, some may have trace amounts. Isolated lovastatin is associated with kidney damage and muscle pain.

Contaminants

• Red yeast rice may contain trace amounts citrinin, a toxic byproduct of the fermentation process.

Liver Damage

• Many of the active compounds in red yeast rice are metabolized by the liver, so people with liver disease should avoid it and other products that contain red yeast.

Bleeding Risk

• There is a theoretical risk of increased bleeding for people taking red yeast rice, so people with bleeding disorders are advised to consult a physician prior to use.