Heart Health

Ask the doctor: Can red yeast rice bring down cholesterol?

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Q.I am taking pravastatin for high cholesterol, but my numbers are still high. Should I try red yeast rice?

There are downsides to taking red yeast rice supplements. Because the FDA does not regulate their manufacture, the total amount of monacolins and effectiveness vary significantly among products. Red yeast rice supplements are sold over the counter and on the Internet, and are not covered by health insurance.

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