Red Yeast Rice Study Not Conclusive: An NLA Statement to Members
July 28, 2008
The results of a study published in the June 15, 2008 issue of the American Journal of Cardiology suggest that there may be significant benefits of Xuezhikang, a specific red yeast rice extract. The National Lipid Association (NLA) recommends that physicians and patients be aware that the composition of this product is not yet fully known and that future use of this product will depend on the result of additional ongoing studies. The NLA offers the following opinion and advice to patients with respect to this trial.
What patients need to know
Studies of red yeast rice extracts are in progress. It is premature to reach a conclusion about their benefits and risks in patients who need to manage their cholesterol levels, and who are not ethnic Chinese.
- The drug used in this study is manufactured in China. It is a special formulation not sold in United States drug and nutritional supplement retail outlets.
- If you currently are taking a medication for cholesterol management, continue to take your prescription. Do not add a red yeast rice extract to your current medications. Adverse effects may be more likely.
- Before making any changes in your medication regimen, consult your health care provider first.
If your lipids aren't at healthy levels, there are many things you can do to improve them. Click here to learn about healthy changes you can make.