Red Yeast Rice
Heart Health
Also known as: RYR, Monascus purpureus
A
Grade A💊 1200-2400mg with 10mg monacolin K🎯 3 primary uses🔗 3 synergies⚠️ Review warnings
Levels upHeart & Longevity+50 pts
Overview
Contains natural statins (monacolin K). Effective but needs same precautions as Rx statins.
Primary Uses
CholesterolLDL reductionLipid support
Frequently Asked About Red Yeast Rice
How much Red Yeast Rice should I take?
The typical effective range is 1200-2400mg with 10mg monacolin K. Individual needs vary based on age, body weight, diet, and goals — start at the lower end and adjust based on response. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.
When is the best time to take Red Yeast Rice?
Evening (like statins). Consistency matters more than perfect timing — pick a daily anchor (e.g. with breakfast or before bed) and stick with it.
Should I take Red Yeast Rice with food?
Yes.
Does Red Yeast Rice interact with medications?
Yes — known interactions include Statins (never combine), CYP3A4 inhibitors, and Warfarin. If you take any prescription medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting Red Yeast Rice.
What does Red Yeast Rice pair well with?
Red Yeast Rice stacks well with CoQ10 (essential), Fish oil, and Niacin — these combinations either improve absorption or work synergistically toward common goals.
Who should not take Red Yeast Rice?
Red Yeast Rice should be avoided or used with caution by people with Liver disease, Pregnancy, and Concurrent statin use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the side effects of Red Yeast Rice?
Most people tolerate Red Yeast Rice well. The most commonly reported side effects are Muscle pain, GI upset, and Headache. Side effects are usually dose-dependent — lowering the dose often resolves them.
Dosage
Typical range
1200-2400mg with 10mg monacolin K
Timing
Evening (like statins)
With food
Yes
Duration
Ongoing for lipid management
Special Populations
High cholesterol, statin-intolerant
Research & Studies
Search the literature now
We haven’t curated landmark studies for Red Yeast Riceyet — one-click into the primary literature here. PubMed (RCTs) is usually the highest-signal starting point.
Mechanism of Action
- • Contains monacolin K (lovastatin)
- • HMG-CoA reductase inhibition
- • LDL reduction
Evidence Quality
Evidence Grade A
Contains natural statin compounds
Safety & Contraindications
Serious Warnings
- • Same as prescription statins (muscle damage, liver)
- • Contamination risk
Contraindications
- • Liver disease
- • Pregnancy
- • Concurrent statin use
Common Side Effects
- • Muscle pain
- • GI upset
- • Headache
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Contraindicated
Liver & Kidney Notes
Monitor liver like statins
Interactions
💊 Medications
- • Statins (never combine)
- • CYP3A4 inhibitors
- • Warfarin
🧪 Supplements
- • MUST take with CoQ10
🍽️ Food & Alcohol
- • Avoid grapefruit
Stacking & Synergies
Pairs Well With
Avoid Combining With
Statins
Best Goal Synergies
Cholesterol reduction
Buying Guide
What to Look For
- • Citrinin-free certified
- • Monacolin K standardized
Standardization Markers
Monacolin K contentCitrinin-free
Adulteration risk
High (citrinin contamination)
Practical Notes
- • MUST take CoQ10 with this
- • Same precautions as Rx statins
Tags
heartcholesterolnatural statinlipid
Top Products with Red Yeast Rice
Highest-scored catalog products containing Red Yeast Rice, ranked by our scoring engine.
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More in Heart Health
Other ingredients in the Heart Health category.
Garlic
Traditional antimicrobial food with allicin compound providing immune support and cardiovascular benefits.
Hawthorn Berry Extract
Hawthorn leaf extract is a traditional herbal remedy used to support cardiovascular health and heart function, with moderate evidence supporting its use for mild hypertension and heart failure symptoms. Studies suggest benefits may derive from flavonoids and phenolic compounds that promote vasodilation and cardiac contractility.
Hibiscus Extract
Flower extract with evidence for mild blood pressure reduction. Pleasant tea form available.
Nattokinase
Enzyme from natto with fibrinolytic activity. May support healthy circulation and blood viscosity.
Niacin (Vitamin B3)
Niacinamide is a water-soluble B vitamin essential for energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cellular signaling. It supports mental clarity and sustained energy production without the flushing effect associated with nicotinic acid.
Olive
Mediterranean botanical with oleuropein providing antimicrobial, cardiovascular, and antioxidant benefits. Traditional immune and heart tonic.
Last reviewed: August 2026 by the Formulate Research Team. Sources cited above; methodology and scoring criteria published here.
Cite this page
Formulate Research Team. (2026, August). Red Yeast Rice — Evidence-Based Supplement Guide. Formulate Supplement Encyclopedia. https://app.formulate-health.app/learning/supplements/red-yeast-rice
Educational content based on published research and our scoring methodology. Not medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing supplements, especially if you take medications, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.