Red Yeast Rice for Hypercholesterolemia JACC Focus Seminar

The extracts of red yeast rice (RYR) are currently the most effective cholesterol-lowering nutraceuticals. This activity is mainly due to monacolin K, a weak reversible inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A reductase, whose daily consumption causes a reduction in low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol plasma levels up to 15% to 25% within 6 to 8 weeks. The decrease in LDL-cholesterol is accompanied by a proportional decrease in total and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, plasma apolipoprotein B, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. Some trials suggest that RYR use is associated with improvement in endothelial function and arterial stiffness, whereas a long-term study supports its role in the prevention of cardiovascular events. Despite the statin-like mechanism of action, the risk related to 3 to 10 mg monacolin K taken per day is minimal (mild myalgia in previously severely statin-intolerant subjects). RYR could represent a therapeutic tool to support lifestyle improvement in managing mild to moderate hypercholesterolemia in low-risk patients, including those who cannot be treated with statins or other LDL-cholesterol-lowering therapies. (C) 2021 The Authors. Published by Elsevier on behalf of the American College of Cardiology Foundation.

Automated summary

The extracts of red yeast rice are the most effective cholesterol-lowering nutraceuticals currently available, reducing LDL-cholesterol levels and potentially improving cardiovascular health, endothelial function, and preventing cardiovascular events.