Red Yeast Rice or Lovastatin? A Comparative Evaluation of Safety and Efficacy Through a Multifaceted Approach.

ABSTRACT: The increasing use of red yeast rice (RYR) as a natural supplement to manage blood cholesterol levels is driven by its active compound, monacolin K (MK), which is chemically identical to the statin drug lovastatin (LOV). Despite its growing popularity, concerns persists regarding the safety and efficacy of RYR compared to pure statins. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, pharmacological effects, and safety profile of various RYR samples in comparison with LOV. RYR samples with different MK content were analyzed using HPLC-DAD to quantify monacolins and other bioactive compounds. The inhibitory activity on HMG-CoA reductase was assessed through an enzymatic assay, while pharmacokinetic properties were predicted using in vitro simulated digestion and in silico models.

SUBMITTER: Rigillo G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11745150 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature