Red yeast rice for dyslipidemia in statin-intolerant patients: a randomized trial

Real-World Risk and Outcome of Liver Cirrhosis in Patients with Hyperlipidemia Treated with Red Yeast Rice: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Objective

Sustained hyperlipidemia contributes to fatty liver and liver cirrhosis. Red yeast rice (RYR) effectively improved the lipid profile; however, the effects of RYR on the risk of incident liver cirrhosis remain to be elucidated. We aimed to evaluate the beneficial effects of RYR use on the risk and outcome of liver cirrhosis.

Patients and methods

We identified 156,587 adults who had newly diagnosed hyperlipidemia in 2010-2016 from health insurance data in this retrospective cohort study. Using propensity score matching, we selected 34,367 patients who used RYR and 34,367 patients who used lovastatin. Events of incident liver cirrhosis that occurred in the two cohorts during the follow-up period of 2010-2019 were identified. We calculated adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (Cis) for liver cirrhosis risk associated with RYR use in the multiple Cox proportional hazard model.

Results

Compared with patients who used lovastatin, patients who used RYR had a decreased risk of liver cirrhosis (HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.57-0.63), and this association was significant in various subgroups. A biological gradient relationship between the frequency of RYR use and decreased liver cirrhosis was observed (p for trend < 0.0001). Reduced postcirrhosis jaundice (HR 0.56, 95% CI 0.43-0.72), ascites (HR 0.37, 95% CI 0.28-0.50), hepatic coma (HR 0.36, 95% CI 0.26-0.50), and mortality (HR 0.48, 95% CI 0.38-0.61) were also associated with RYR use.

Conclusion

We demonstrated the beneficial effects of RYR use on the risk and outcome of liver cirrhosis; however, the lack of compliance data should be considered. However, our study did not infer causality or claim the superiority of RYR over lovastatin.

Cost-effectiveness of dietary supplement ingredients versus generic statins for LDL reduction

Background

While statin therapy is the preferred treatment for hyperlipidemia, literature supports the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) lowering effects associated with red yeast rice, berberine, and Silybum marianum. Dietary supplements may be perceived as a more affordable alternative to prescription medication.

Objective

We determined cost-effectiveness of generic pravastatin versus single-ingredient dietary supplements in relation to LDL lowering effect.

Methods

Data from meta-analyses and systematic reviews was extracted to calculate pooled weighted mean LDL differences amongst generic pravastatin and single ingredient dietary supplements. The effect was then divided by average 30-day costs and compared amongst agents.

Results

The greatest difference was seen in pravastatin 40 mg [MD -57.88 mg/dL (95%CI: - 64.80 to -50.96)], followed by pravastatin 10 mg [MD -41.30 mg/dL (95%CI: 63.30 to - 19.40)], red yeast rice [MD -25.39 (95%CI: -32.98 to -17.81)], berberine [MD -15.13 (95%CI: -21.78 to -8.48)], and Silybum marianum [MD -9.51 mg/dL (95%CI: -22.13 to - 0.10)]. were divided by mean difference to calculate cost per mg/dL reduction in LDL. Cost-effectiveness was greatest for pravastatin 10 mg [$0.66/mg/dL LDL reduction (range: $0.39 to $1.13)], followed by pravastatin 40 mg [$0.74/mg/dL LDL reduction (range: $0.66 to $0.84)], berberine [$0.81/mg/dL LDL reduction (range: $0.56 to $1.44)], red yeast rice [$0.84/mg/dL reduction (range: $0.67 to $1.13)], and Silybum marianum [$0.88/mg/dL LDL reduction (range: $0.38 to $82.02)].

Conclusion

Pravastatin is most cost-effective in each scenario whether or not prescription insurance is utilized.

Using stable carbon isotope ratio analysis to detect adulteration in red yeast rice dietary supplements

Red yeast rice (RYR) is marketed as a dietary supplement because it contains natural 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins), including monacolin K. However, there is concern that some RYR supplements may be adulterated with the pharmaceutical drug lovastatin to enhance health claims. We have developed an optimized method to isolate monacolin K/lovastatin from complex RYR dietary supplement matrices to then test for adulteration in RYR supplements using stable carbon isotope (δ13C) analysis. Samples were initially screened for monacolin K/lovastatin using liquid chromatography with mass spectrometric detection (LC-MS). To ensure the extraction process did not affect the measured isotopic values (i.e., isotopic fractionation effects), neat lovastatin standards were spiked into two types of blank RYR matrices (powder and gel). The monacolin K/lovastatin peaks were detected using high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC-UV) and isolated using fraction collection. Residual matrix components were removed from targeted fractions by solid phase extraction (SPE) using graphitized carbon black cartridges. The resulting isolates were then analyzed using elemental analyzer-isotope ratio mass spectrometry (EA-IRMS) to measure δ13C values. The δ13C values of the extracted lovastatin standards were compared to their respective neat lovastatin δ13C values and demonstrated negligible isotopic fractionation effects. Using this optimized clean up method and carbon isotope analysis, thirty-one samples were screened. Eight RYR dietary supplement samples had >0.8 mg/g of monacolin K/lovastatin, our minimum threshold for analyzing samples using this method. Four of these eight samples had δ13C values greater than -28.3‰, a previously proposed cutoff value for natural monacolin K, indicating likely adulteration. Additionally, five RYR powder samples were analyzed as part of a collaborative study using in-house methods from two laboratories and the data shows acceptable agreement in the δ13C values of monacolin K/lovastatin (differences ranging from ±0.02‰ to ±0.76‰). This optimized method represents a robust, reproducible procedure for detecting lovastatin adulteration in dietary supplements with minimal isotopic fractionation.

Alternative lipid lowering strategies: State-of-the-art review of red yeast rice

Red yeast rice (RYR) is an entirely natural product that originates from the fermentation of white rice (Oryza sativa) with a yeast, mainly Monascus Purpureus, and has been part of traditional Chinese medicine and diet since ancient times. It has generated great interest in recent years in the context of cardiovascular (CV) prevention due to its ability to inhibit endogenous cholesterol production, helping to achieve and maintain optimal plasma lipid concentrations. This review aims to make an extensive 360-degree assessment and summary of the whole currently available scientific evidence about RYR, starting with its biochemical composition, passing through a historical reconstruction of all the studies that have evaluated its efficacy and safety in cholesterol-lowering action, with a focus on CV outcomes, and ultimately addressing its other relevant clinical effects. We also discuss its possible therapeutic role, alone or in combination with other nutraceuticals, in different clinical scenarios, taking into account the positions of major scientific documents on the issue, and describe the articulate legal controversies that have characterized the regulation of its use up to the present day. RYR preparations have been proven safe and effective in improving lipid profile, with a potential role in reducing cardiovascular risk. They can be considered as additional supportive agents in the armamentarium of lipid-modifying therapies.

Functional foods and nutraceuticals in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia: Statement of the Spanish Society of Arteriosclerosis 2023

In the management of hypercholesterolemia, besides advising a healthy, plant-based diet, it may be useful to recommend functional foods or nutraceutical with cholesterol-lowering properties. Given the progressive increase in the number of these products and their rising use by the population, the Spanish Society of Arteriosclerosis (SEA) has considered it appropriate to review the available information, select the results of the scientifically more robust studies and take a position on their usefulness, to recommend to health professionals and the general population their potential utility in terms of efficacy and their possible benefits and limitations. The following clinical scenarios have been identified in which these products could be used and will be analyzed in more detail in this document: (1) Hypolipidemic treatment in subjects with statin intolerance. (2) Hypolipidemic treatment «a la carte» in individuals in primary prevention. (3) Long-term cardiovascular prevention in individuals with no indication for lipid-lowering therapy. (4) Patients with optimized lipid-lowering treatment who do not achieve therapeutic objectives.

[Red yeast-rice-induced muscular injuries: Analysis of French pharmacovigilance database and literature review]

Red yeast rice (RYR) is a dietary supplement containing monacolins obtained by fermentation of Monascus purpureus strains. Because of its structural homology with lovastatin, monacolin K inhibits HMG-CoA reductase and shows hypocholesterolemic properties comparable to synthetic statins. We studied all cases of myopathy involving RYR reported in the French national pharmacovigilance database (6 cases) and in scientific literature (9 cases). Among these cases, 9 showed elevated creatine kinase, 3 rhabdomyolysis and 2 myalgia. Recent studies seem to show good efficacy of the RYR, however, our work reports the existence of related muscular disorders. In addition, dietary supplements currently available on the market may show considerable variability of formulation and/or the presence of contaminants. When clinicobiological disorders occur, physicians should consider the eventual use of an herbal treatment.

Supplements for Lipid Lowering: What Does the Evidence Show?

PURPOSE

In this review, the regulation, proposed hypolipidemic mechanism, and efficacy of common dietary supplements (DSs) marketed for cardiovascular health are discussed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Data demonstrate modest but inconsistent lipid-lowering effects with common DSs such as probiotics, soluble fibers, plant sterols, green tea, berberine, guggul, niacin, and garlic. Furthermore, data is limited regarding turmeric, hawthorn, and cinnamon. Red yeast rice has shown to be a beneficial DS, but its safety and efficacy are dependent upon its production quality and monacolin K content, respectively. Finally, soy proteins and omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods can have significant health benefits if used to displace other animal products as part of a healthier diet. Despite the rising use of DSs, data demonstrate unpredictable results. Patients should be educated on the difference between these DSs and evidence-based lipid-lowering medications proven to improve cardiovascular outcomes.

Low Dose Monacolin K Combined with Coenzyme Q10, Grape Seed, and Olive Leaf Extracts Lowers LDL Cholesterol in Patients with Mild Dyslipidemia: A Multicenter, Randomized Controlled Trial

Certain nutraceuticals, mainly containing red yeast rice, might be considered as an alternative therapy to statins in patients with dyslipidemia, although there is still insufficient evidence available with respect to long-term safety and effectiveness on cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment. The aim of this study was to assess the lipid-lowering activity and safety of a dietary supplement containing a low dose of monacolin K combined with coenzyme Q10, grape seed and olive tree leaf extracts in patients with mild hypercholesterolemia. In total, 105 subjects with mild hypercholesterolemia (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol LDL-C levels 140-180 mg/dL) and low CV risk were randomly assigned into three treatment groups: lifestyle modification (LM), LM plus a low dosage of monacolin K (3 mg), and LM plus a high dosage of monacolin K (10 mg) and treated for 8 weeks. The primary endpoint was the reduction of LDL-C and total cholesterol (TC). LDL-C decreased by 26.46% on average (p < 0.001) during treatment with 10 mg of monacolin and by 16.77% on average during treatment with 3 mg of monacolin (p < 0.001). We observed a slight but significant reduction of the triglyceride levels only in the high-dose-treated group (mean -4.25%; 95% CI of mean -11.11 to 2.61). No severe adverse events occurred during the study. Our results confirm the LDL-C-lowering properties of monacolin are clinically meaningful even in lower doses of 3 mg/day.

Red Yeast Rice for the Improvement of Lipid Profiles in Mild-to-Moderate Hypercholesterolemia: A Narrative Review

Reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels is a key target for lowering cardiovascular risk and preventing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Red yeast rice (RYR) is a nutraceutical widely used as a lipid-lowering dietary supplement. The main cholesterol-lowering components of RYR are monacolins, particularly monacolin K, which is structurally identical to lovastatin and targets the same key enzyme of cholesterol biosynthesis. RYR supplementation reduces LDL-C levels by approximately 15-34% versus placebo, with a similar effect to low-dose, first-generation statins in subjects with mild-to-moderate dyslipidemia. RYR has also demonstrated beneficial reductions of up to 45% versus placebo in the risk of ASCVD events in secondary prevention studies. RYR at a dose that provides about 3 mg/d of monacolin K is well tolerated, with an adverse event profile similar to that of low-dose statins. RYR is therefore a treatment option for lowering LDL-C levels and ASCVD risk for people with mild-to-moderate hypercholesterolemia who are ineligible for statin therapy, particularly those who are unable to implement lifestyle modifications, and also for people who are eligible for statin therapy but who are unwilling to take a pharmacologic therapy.

Impact of red yeast rice supplementation on lipid profile: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Dyslipidemia/hyperlipidemia are among the risk factors for chronic diseases, especially cardiovascular diseases. Red Yeast Rice (RYR) herbal supplement may be helpful in improving serum fat levels due to some mechanisms. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of RYR consumption on total serum cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglyceride (TG) levels in adults.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Four comprehensive databases (SCOPUS, PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science) were employed until 23 December 2021 RCTs, with 24 treatment arms included after screening 3623 articles.

RESULTS

Pooled data showed significant effectiveness in lowering TC (WMD: -33.16 mg/dl, 95% CI: -37.69, -28.63, P < 0.001), LDL-C (WMD: -28.94 mg/dl, 95% CI: -32.90, -24.99, P < 0.001), and TG (WMD: -23.36 mg/dl, 95% CI: -31.30, -15.43, P < 0.001) concentration and increasing HDL-C concentration (WMD: 2.49 mg/dl, 95% CI: 1.48, 3.49, P < 0.001) following RYR supplementation. Furthermore, the effect of this herbal drug in doses less than 1200 mg and with an intervention duration of less than 12 weeks was more in individuals with dyslipidemia.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this comprehensive article and meta-analysis showed that RYR significantly decreases TC, TG, and LDL-C as well as increases HDL-C.

Evaluation the effects of red yeast rice in combination with statin on lipid profile and inflammatory indices; a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Dyslipidemia is a prominent cause of cardiovascular disease as it leads to inflammation and plaque deposition within arteries. Treatment includes lifestyle modifications and lipid-lowering medications. We aimed to assess the therapeutic effects of red yeast rice (RYR) alongside statin therapy.

METHODS

This triple-blind randomized clinical trial involved 92 dyslipidemia patients and was performed in 2019. Standard laboratory tests were used to assess the serum LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels. Subsequently, patients randomly received one daily RYR or placebo tablet for 1 month beside routine single statin therapy. Subsequently, blood tests were repeated and compared against the baseline. Liver function tests were also requested.

RESULTS

Total cholesterol significantly (P = 0.019) decreased in the treatment group (- 10.2 mg/dL) compared with the placebo group (- 1.3 mg/dL). HDL cholesterol decreased by 2.19 mg/dL in the treatment group but increased by 0.53 mg/dL in the treatment group (P = 0.083). LDL cholesterol declined in both placebo (- 5.09) and treatment (- 0.73) groups (P = 0.187). TG increased by about 7 mg/dL in the treatment group but fell by roughly 1 mg/dL in the placebo group (P = 0.386). Hs-CRP increased by 0.28 mg/dL in the treatment group but decreased by 0.09 mg/dL in the placebo group (P = 0.336).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that adding RYR (Lesstat®) to statin medications significantly decreases total cholesterol. However, no significant effect was seen on other lipid profile components or Hs-CRP. Finally, we showed that RYR is safe to add to statins considering liver function (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT05095480).

Nutraceutical Approaches to Dyslipidaemia: The Main Formulative Issues Preventing Efficacy

Currently, the nutraceutical approach to treat dyslipidaemia is increasing in use, and in many cases is used by physicians as the first choice in the treatment of patients with borderline values. Nutraceuticals represent an excellent opportunity to treat the preliminary conditions not yet showing the pathological signs of dyslipidaemia. Their general safety, the patient's confidence, the convincing proof of efficacy and the reasonable costs prompted the market of new preparations. Despite this premise, many nutraceutical products are poorly formulated and do not meet the minimum requirements to ensure efficacy in normalizing blood lipid profiles, promoting cardiovascular protection, and normalizing disorders of glycemic metabolism. In this context, bioaccessibility and bioavailability of the active compounds is a crucial issue. Little attention is paid to the proper formulations needed to improve the overall bioavailability of the active molecules. According to these data, many products prove to be insufficient to ensure full enteric absorption. The present review analysed the literature in the field of nutraceuticals for the treatment of dyslipidemia, focusing on resveratrol, red yeast rice, berberine, and plant sterols, which are among the nutraceuticals with the greatest formulation problems, highlighting bioavailability and the most suitable formulations.

Monascus spp. and citrinin: Identification, selection of Monascus spp. isolates, occurrence, detection and reduction of citrinin during the fermentation of red fermented rice

Red fermented rice (RFR) is rice fermented using Monascus spp. This product contains monacolin K, providing health benefits including mitigation of diarrhoea and improving blood circulation. RFR can produce pigments that can act as natural colour and flavouring agents. However, Monascus spp. (a fungal starter to ferment RFR) can also produce the mycotoxin, citrinin (CIT) which is believed to have adverse effects on human health. CIT in RFR has been reported worldwide by using different methods of detection. This review focuses on the production of RFR by solid-state fermentation (SSF) and submerged fermentation (SmF), the occurrence of CIT in RFR, CIT quantification, the factors affecting the growth of Monascus spp., pigments and CIT production in RFR, and possible methods to reduce CIT in RFR. This review will help the food industries, researchers, and consumers understand the risk of consuming RFR, and the possibility of controlling CIT in RFR.

Decreased Risk of Stroke in People Using Red Yeast Rice Prescriptions (LipoCol Forte®): a Total Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study

The influence of red yeast rice (RYR) on the risk of incident stroke remains underexplored. We aimed to compare the risk of stroke between people with and without use of RYR prescriptions. We used research data from the National Health Insurance Program in Taiwan and identified 34,723 adults (aged ≥20 years) who first received the RYR prescription from 2010 to 2014. To select the appropriate control group, we used frequency matching by age and sex (case-control ratio = 1 : 1) and identified a non-RYR cohort that included 34,723 adults who first received lovastatin. Events of an incident stroke that occurred during the follow-up period of 2010–2017 were identified from medical claims. The adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of stroke risk associated with RYR prescription were calculated in the multiple Cox proportional hazard model. Compared with the non-RYR cohort, patients who received RYR prescriptions had a decreased risk of stroke (HR 0.65, 95% CI 0.59–0.71), including hemorrhagic stroke (HR 0.60, 95% CI 0.44–0.83), ischemic stroke (HR 0.49, 95% CI 0.43–0.57), and other types of strokes (HR 0.53, 95% CI 0.42–0.67). The association between RYR prescription and stroke risk was significant in both sexes and in people aged more than 40 years, as well as in those individuals with various medical conditions. The frequency of RYR prescription (HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.50–0.64) was associated with a decreased risk of stroke with a dose-response relationship (p for trend<0.0001). This study showed a potentially positive effect of RYR on the risk of stroke. However, compliance with medication use should be cautioned. The findings of this study require future studies to validate the beneficial effects of RYR prescription on stroke risk.

Red Yeast Rice for Hyperlipidemia: A Meta-Analysis of 15 High-Quality Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: RYR is a commonly used lipid-lowering dietary supplements in Asian and European countries, showing considerable benefits and low toxicity. This quantitative study aims to present high-quality evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of RYR in treating hyperlipidemia, in order to promote its clinical application. Methods: PubMed, embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were systematically searched, and high-quality randomized controlled trials comparing RYR with non-RYR interventions were included. RevMan5.3 software was used to conduct the meta-analysis. Results: A total of 1,012 individuals participated in this study (481 in the experimental and 531 in the control group). In comparison to statins, RYR was more effective in lowering TG (MD, -19.90; 95% CI, -32.22 to -7.58; p = 0.002), comparable in lowering LDL-C and elevating HDL-C, and less effective in lowering TC (MD, 12.24; 95% CI, 2.19 to 22.29; p = 0.02). Compared with nutraceutical, RYR significantly reduced TC (MD, -17.80; 95% CI, -27.12 to -8.48; p = 0.0002) and LDL-C (MD, -14.40; 95% CI, -22.71 to -6.09; p = 0.0007), and elevated HDL-C (MD, 7.60; 95% CI, 4.33 to 10.87; p < 0.00001). Moreover, RYR effectively synergized nutraceutical to further reduce TC (MD, -31.10; 95% CI, -38.83 to -23.36; p < 0.00001), LDL-C (MD, -27.91; 95% CI, -36.58 to -19.24; p < 0.00001), and TG (MD, -26.32; 95% CI, -34.05 to -18.59; p < 0.00001). Additionally, RYR significantly reduced apoB (MD, -27.98; 95% CI, -35.51 to -20.45; p < 0.00001) and, whether alone or in combination, did not increase the risk of adverse events in patients with hyperlipidemia. Conclusion: RYR at 200-4800 mg daily appears to be a safe and effective treatment for hyperlipidemia, effectively regulating blood lipid levels with an exceptional impact on TG. Looking forward, high-quality clinical trials with longer observation periods are required to evaluate the efficacy and safety of RYR as a long-term medication. Systematic Review Registration: (https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/), identifier (CRD4202128450).

Prevention and Treatment of Atherosclerosis: The Use of Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods

Nutritional interventions are effective and - in theory - easy to implement primary and secondary prevention strategies that reduce several risk factors of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Yet, because of (a) the severe impact of CVD in terms of mortality, morbidity, quality of life, and economy, (b) the proved role of LDL plasma concentrations as the most critical risk factor, and (c) the obstacles found both in terms of biological effects and compliance of the patient by an exclusively dietary intervention, food supplements or nutraceuticals are now valuable resources for physicians. As regards cholesterol control, several preparations are available in the market, and we will critically review them in this chapter.

Nutraceuticals: Transformation of Conventional Foods into Health Promoters/Disease Preventers and Safety Considerations

Nutraceuticals are essential food constituents that provide nutritional benefits as well as medicinal effects. The benefits of these foods are due to the presence of active compounds such as carotenoids, collagen hydrolysate, and dietary fibers. Nutraceuticals have been found to positively affect cardiovascular and immune system health and have a role in infection and cancer prevention. Nutraceuticals can be categorized into different classes based on their nature and mode of action. In this review, different classifications of nutraceuticals and their potential therapeutic activity, such as anti-cancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-lipid activity in disease will be reviewed. Moreover, the different mechanisms of action of these products, applications, and safety upon consumers including current trends and future prospect of nutraceuticals will be included.

Lipid Profile and Vascular Remodelling in Young Dyslipidemic Subjects Treated with Nutraceuticals Derived from Red Yeast Rice

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

A relevant role is emerging for functional foods in cardiovascular prevention. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a nutraceutical multitargeted approach on lipid profile and inflammatory markers along with vascular remodelling in a cohort of dyslipidemic subjects without history of cardiovascular (CV) disease.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We enrolled 25 subjects (mean age 48.2 years) with low to moderate CV risk profile and total cholesterol (TC) levels between 150 and 250 mg/dl. The patients were assigned to receive for one year a tablet/die of a nutraceutical combination containing red yeast rice (RYR) extract (Monacolin 3 mg/tablet) and coenzyme Q10 (30 mg/tablet). Treatment with the nutraceutical compounds led to a significant reduction of TC (from 227 to 201 mg/dl, p < 0.001), LDL-c (from 150 to 130 mg/dl, p = 0.001), triglycerides (from 121 to 109 mg/dl, p = 0.013), non-HDL-cholesterol (from 168 to 141 mg/dl, p < 0.001), hs-CRP (from 1.74 to 1.20 mg/l, p = 0.015), and osteoprotegerin (from 1488 to 1328 pg/ml, p = 0.045). Levels of HDL-c, Lp(a), glucose, liver enzyme, CPK, or creatinine did not change over time. An ultrasound study was performed to assess changes in mean carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and maximum IMT (M-MAX) as well as modification in local carotid stiffness by means of determining the carotid compliance coefficient (CC) and distensibility coefficient (DC). At the end of the treatment, we observed small but significant reductions in both mean-IMT (from 0.62 to 0.57 mm, p = 0.022) and M-MAX (from 0.79 to 0.73 mm, p = 0.002), and an improvement in carotid elasticity (DC from 22.4 to 24.3 × 10-3/kPa, p = 0.006 and CC from 0.77 to 0.85 mm2/kPa, p = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

A long-term treatment with a combination of RYR and coenzyme Q10 showed lipid-lowering activity along with a reduction of inflammatory mediators and an improvement of vascular properties in young subjects with a low-to-moderate CV risk profile.

Red yeast rice prevents chronic alcohol-induced liver disease by attenuating oxidative stress and inflammatory response in mice

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is characterized by dyslipidemia, hepatic steatosis, steatohepatitis, edema, necrosis, etc. Studies have reported that some dietary nutrition factors have beneficial effects in improving ALD. Red yeast rice (RYR), a traditional herbal supplement, has been confirmed to lower cholesterol mainly due to its component monacolin K. However, the effect of RYR on ALD has not been investigated. In this study, mice were supplemented with a daily oral gavage of 4 g/kg 50% ethanol for 8 weeks to induce a chronic ALD. RYR (150 mg kg^-1  day^-1 ) was supplied to ALD mice in treatment group. The results showed that RYR supplementation significantly attenuated hyperlipidemia, elevated circulating inflammatory cytokines, hepatic structural damage, and oxidative stress in mice supplemented with alcohol with no effects on body weight. Moreover, RYR significantly suppressed alcohol-induced hepatic NF-κB activation and apoptosis. Our results suggest that RYR is capable of preventing ALD mainly by attenuating hepatic oxidative stress and inflammatory response. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: RYR was known for cholesterol-lowering effect through its main component monacolin K. The current study revealed that RYR was capable of ameliorating ALD, which is characterized by profound dyslipidemia, hepatic steatosis, steatohepatitis, edema, etc. Our results indicated that the protective effect of RYR on ALD is largely achieved by regulating lipid metabolism, and closely related to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of RYR. This study provides research foundation for the development of RYR-related food or pharmaceutical products, especially targeting for ALD.

Natural Bioactive Compounds Useful in Clinical Management of Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a clinical manifestation characterized by a plethora of comorbidities, including hyperglycemia, abdominal obesity, arterial hypertension, and dyslipidemia. All MetS comorbidities participate to induce a low-grade inflammation state and oxidative stress, typical of this syndrome. MetS is related to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and early death, with an important impact on health-care costs. For its clinic management a poly-pharmaceutical therapy is often required, but this can cause side effects and reduce the patient's compliance. For this reason, finding a valid and alternative therapeutic strategy, natural and free of side effects, could represent a useful tool in the fight the MetS. In this context, the use of functional foods, and the assumption of natural bioactive compounds (NBCs), could exert beneficial effects on body weight, blood pressure and glucose metabolism control, on endothelial damage, on the improvement of lipid profile, on the inflammatory state, and on oxidative stress. This review focuses on the possible beneficial role of NBCs in the prevention and in the clinical management of MetS and its comorbidities.

[Doctor, Do You Know Red Yeast Rice?]

Doctor, Do You Know Red Yeast Rice? Abstract. We present cases of patients with high total cholesterol who wanted to use an alternative therapy for lowering cholesterol. An improvement in the lipid profile was found in all patients, and all tolerated the product made from red rice yeast very well. No side effects were observed. The patients who take red fermented rice consciously choose an alternative agent in the field of phytotherapy because they already have to take several conventional medicines and are no longer willing to use an additional drug of this kind. Another reason is that they no longer want to put up with the side effects they suffered from when using a common lipid-lowering drug.

Medicinal Chemistry Friendliness of Pigments from Monascus-Fermented Rice and the Molecular Docking Analysis of Their Anti-Hyperlipidemia Properties

In this study, the physicochemical properties, pharmacokinetics properties, and drug-likeness of pigments from Monascus-fermented rice (Monascus pigments, MPs) were predicted in silico using SwissADME tool. In silico prediction of physicochemical properties showed that MPs had desirable lipophilic drug-like physicochemical properties including molecular weight (236 to 543), TPSA (44.76 to 179.77), lipophilicity (−0.81 to 4.14), and water solubility (−4.94 to −0.77). The pharmacokinetic properties of MPs (i.e., GIA, P-glycoprotein substrate, and CYP3A4 inhibitor) illustrated that most MPs had high intestinal absorption and bioavailability, but some MPs might cause pharmacokinetics-related drug–drug interactions. Following this, six main well-known MPs (monascin, ankaflavin, rubropunctatin, monascorubrin, rubropunctamine, monascorubramine) were selected for molecular docking with some enzyme receptors. The docking results were shown with the best molecular docking poses, and the interacting residues, number and distance of hydrogen bonds of the MPs and monacolin K (for docking with 3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA reductase)), or MPs and oleic acid (for docking with lipase). Dissociation constants showed that MPs had lower inhibitory potential for HMGR (compared with Monacolin K), and higher inhibitory potential for lipase. Individual pigments from Monascus-fermented rice, therefore, have the potential to be developed as drug candidates for controlling hyperlipidemia.

Red yeast rice (Monascus purpureus) supplements: Case series assessment of spontaneously reported cases to The Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb

Serious concerns are expressed on the safe use of red yeast rice (RYR) supplements. The aim of the present study was to analyse cases received by Lareb on RYR‐related adverse health events. These cases were analysed for the number of reports, number of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), causality, seriousness of the reaction, latency‐period, age and sex of the patients, concomitant medication and type of reporter. A total of 94 individual reports were collected by Lareb, corresponding with 187 ADRs. The analysis showed most reported ADRs were labelled musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders (n = 64), gastrointestinal disorders (n = 33) and general disorders and administration site conditions (n = 23). The use of RYR supplements should be considered as a significant safety concern. Exposure to monacolin K could lead to serious adverse effects. To fully assess the safety profile of RYR supplements, more research is necessary to compose a complete ADR profile of RYR supplements.

Traditional fermented foods with anti-aging effect: A concentric review

Fermentation has been applied since antiquity as a way to preserve foodstuff or as a necessary step in the production of a variety of products. The research was initially focused on accurate description of production procedure and identification of parameters that may affect the composition and dynamics of the developing micro-communities, since the major aim was standardization and commercial exploitation of the products. Soon it was realized that consumption of these products was associated with an array of health benefits, such as anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-carcinogenic and anti-allergenic activities. These were credited to the microorganisms present in the fermented products as well as their metabolic activities and the bio-transformations that took place during the fermentation process. Aging has been defined as a gradual decline in the physiological function and concomitantly homeostasis, which is experienced by all living beings over time, leading inevitably to age-associated injuries, diseases, and finally death. Research has focused on effective strategies to delay this process and thus increase both lifespan and well-being. Fermented food products seem to be a promising alternative due to the immunomodulatory effect of microorganisms and elevated amounts of bioactive compounds. Indeed, a series of anti-aging related benefits have been reported, some of which have been attributed to specific compounds such as genistein and daidzein in soybeans, while others are yet to be discovered. The present article aims to collect and critically discuss all available literature regarding the anti-aging properties of fermented food products.

Diet and Nutraceutical Supplementation in Dyslipidemic Patients: First Results of an Italian Single Center Real-World Retrospective Analysis

BACKGROUND

Dyslipidemias are a heterogeneous group of metabolic disorders mainly characterized by an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) or other conditions, such as acute pancreatitis in hypertriglyceridemia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of diet treatment and nutraceutical (NUTs) supplementation on the plasma lipid profile in outpatient dyslipidemic subjects, considering the influence of several factors (i.e., gender, age, body mass index, alcohol consumption, and smoking habits).

METHODS

487 dyslipidemic patients spanning from 2015 to 2019 were treated with a Mediterranean diet or NUTs in a real-word setting and were retrospectively analyzed. General characteristics and lipid profile at baseline and after the follow-up period were evaluated.

RESULTS

Diet alone reduced total cholesterol (-19 mg/dL, -7.7%), LDL cholesterol (-18 mg/dL, -10.1%), and triglycerides (-20 mg/dL, -16.7%). Triglycerides (TG) decreased more in men, while women were associated with higher reduction of LDL cholesterol (LDL-C). Different types of NUTs further ameliorate lipid profiles when associated with diet. Nevertheless, most patients at low ASCVD risk (222 out of 262, 81.6%) did not achieve the 2019 ESC/EAS guidelines recommended LDL-C goals (i.e., LDL-C < 116 mg/dL).

CONCLUSION

Lipid-lowering diet improves lipid profile, and NUTs can boost its efficacy, but taken together they are mainly unsatisfactory with respect to the targets imposed by 2019 EAS/ESC guidelines.

Comparative Chemical Profiling and Monacolins Quantification in Red Yeast Rice Dietary Supplements by 1H-NMR and UHPLC-DAD-MS

Red yeast rice dietary supplements (RYR DS) are largely sold in Western countries for their cholesterol-lowering/regulating effect due to monacolins, mainly monacolin K (MK), which is, in fact, lovastatin, the first statin drug on the market. 1H-NMR was used as an easy, rapid and accurate method to establish the chemical profiles of 31 RYR DS and to quantify their monacolin contents. Among all the 1H resonances of the monacolins found in RYR, only those of the ethylenic protons of the hexahydronaphthalenic ring at 5.84 and 5.56 ppm are suitable for quantification because they show no overlap with the matrix signals. The total content in monacolins per capsule or tablet determined in 28 DS (the content in 3 DS being below the limit of quantification of the method, ≈ 0.25 mg per unit dose) was close to that measured by UHPLC, as shown by the good linear correlation between the two sets of values (slope 1.00, y-intercept 0.113, r2 0.986). Thirteen of the 31 RYR DS analyzed (i.e., 42%) did not provide label information on the concentration of monacolins and only nine of the 18 formulations with an indication (i.e., 50%) actually contained the declared amount of monacolins.

Evaluating Risk of Incident Diabetes Between Patients Who Used Lovastatin and Red Yeast Rice Prescriptions (LipoCol Forte): A Retrospective Cohort Study Based on a Real-World Database

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the risk of incident diabetes between people who used lovastatin and red yeast rice (RYR) prescriptions.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed to analyze the real-world database of Taiwan's National Health Insurance. We identified the RYR cohort, which included 34,504 persons age 20 years or older who began their use of a RYR prescription in 2010-2014. A comparison cohort of 34,504 adults beginning the use of lovastatin was selected from the same dataset, which was matched by age and sex. Both cohorts had no diabetes before the use of the medications. Events of incident diabetes in 2000-2015 were ascertained from medical claims. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of incident diabetes associated with the use of RYR prescriptions were calculated.

RESULTS

The incidences of diabetes for the RYR cohort and the lovastatin cohort were 1.01 and 2.59 per 100 person-years, respectively (P < 0.0001). Compared with the lovastatin cohort, the adjusted HR of incident diabetes was 0.46 (95% CI 0.43-0.50) for people who used RYR prescriptions. The association between reduced incident diabetes and use of RYR prescriptions was significant in various subgroups. There was a dose-response relationship between RYR prescriptions and the reduced risk of incident diabetes.

CONCLUSION

We raised the possibility that people who used RYR prescriptions may have a lower risk of incident diabetes compared with the lovastatin cohort.

Red Yeast Rice: A Systematic Review of the Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Pharmacology, and Quality Control of an Important Chinese Folk Medicine

Red yeast rice (RYR), a Chinese traditional folk medicine produced by the fermentation of cooked rice kernels with a Monascaceae mold, Monascus purpureus, has long been used to treat blood circulation stasis, indigestion, diarrhea, and limb weakness in East Asian countries. This article provides a systematic review of the traditional uses, chemistry, biological activities, and toxicology of RYR to highlight its future prospects in the field of medicine. The literature reviewed for this article was obtained from the Web of Science, Elsevier, SciFinder, PubMed, CNKI, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, as well as Ph.D. and M.Sc. dissertations, published prior to July 2019. More than 101 chemical constituents have been isolated from RYR, mainly consisting of monacolins, pigments, organic acids, sterols, decalin derivatives, flavonoids, polysaccharides, and other compounds. Crude extracts of RYR, as well as its isolated compounds, possess broad pharmacological properties with hypolipidemic, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-cancer, neurocytoprotective, anti-osteoporotic, anti-fatigue, anti-diabetic, and anti-hypertensive activities. However, further studies are needed to characterize its diverse chemical constituents and the toxicological actions of the main bioactive compounds. New pharmacological trials addressing the overlooked traditional uses of RYR, such as in the treatment of indigestion and diarrhea, are required.

Effects of a nutraceutical combination of monacolin, γ-oryzanol and γ-aminobutyric acid on lipid profile and C-reactive protein in mice

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of two nutraceutical agents aimed to improve lipid profile in a sample of mice.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fifty mice were randomly divided into four groups. Control mice were fed a standard diet (SD), while the other three groups were fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) for 4 weeks. At the end of the run-in period, mice fed with the SD continued to follow the SD, while mice fed with the HFD were divided into three groups: one continued with the HFD, one continued to follow the HFD + a blend of natural components derived from rice and fermented rice (monacolin K 3%, γ-oryzanol, and γ-aminobutyric acid) (S1), and the other one followed the HFD + one nutraceutical containing monacolin K 3% alone for 24 weeks.

RESULTS

The results showed that mice treated with HFD + S1 and HFD + S2 had lower levels of TC compared to mice fed with the HFD alone (p < 0.01, and p < 0.05, respectively). Moreover, mice treated with HFD + S1 had lower TC and LDL-C levels compared to mice fed with HFD + S2 (p < 0.05). Mice treated with HFD + S1 or S2 had lower Tg levels compared to mice fed with the HFD (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

We can conclude that a combination of monacolin K 3%, γ-oryzanol, and γ-aminobutyric acid is more effective than monacolin K 3% alone in reducing the negative effects of a HFD in a sample of specific pathogen-free mice.

Mini-review: medication safety of red yeast rice products

High lipid levels in the blood together with high blood pressure and diabetes are among the highest risks for coronary heart disease. In particular, elevated cholesterol levels promote the progression of atherosclerosis. Red yeast rice, also called red fermented rice or red mold rice, is used as a dietary supplement to lower cholesterol levels. It contains varying amounts of natural monacolin K, which is a structural homolog to lovastatin, and shows hypocholesterolemic properties comparable to synthetic statins. Despite being portrayed as a natural alternative, the potential of red yeast rice for side effects and interactions is comparable to statin drugs. Consumers need to be made aware of the varying monacolin K content in red yeast rice products and the insufficient long-term safety data regarding the potential risks of red yeast rice.

Effects of red yeast rice prescription (LipoCol Forte) on adverse outcomes of surgery

BACKGROUND

The influence of red yeast rice (RYR) on perioperative outcome remains unknown.

AIM

We aimed to compare the complications and mortality after surgery between patients treated with and without RYR prescription.

DESIGN

In this surgical cohort study of 3.6 million surgical patients who underwent major inpatient surgeries, 2581 patients who used RYR prescription pre-operatively were compared with 25 810 non-RYR patients selected by matching for age and sex.

METHODS

Patients' demographics and medical conditions were collected from the claims data of the National Health Insurance in Taiwan. Complications and mortality after major surgeries in association with RYR prescription were investigated by calculating adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) by multiple logistic regression.

RESULTS

Compared with patients without RYR prescription, patients prescribed RYR had lower risks of post-operative bleeding (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.15-0.89), pneumonia (OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.36-0.83), stroke (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.47-0.92) and 30-day in-hospital mortality (OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.15-0.92). Decreased risk of intensive care (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.54-0.77), shorter length of hospital stay (P < 0.001) and lower medical expenditures (P = 0.0008) during the index surgical admission were also noted for patients with RYR prescription compared to those for patients without RYR prescription.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed a potentially positive effect of RYR on outcomes after major surgeries. However, patient non-compliance for taking medication should be noted. Our findings require future prospective studies to validate RYR prescription for improving perioperative outcomes.

Efficacy of a nutraceutical combination on lipid metabolism in patients with metabolic syndrome: a multicenter, double blind, randomized, placebo controlled trial

Background

Nutraceuticals represent a new therapeutic frontier in the treatment of metabolic syndrom (MetS) and related cardiovascular risk factors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential beneficial effects of Armolipid Plus (AP) (berberine 500 mg, red yest rice, monacolin K 3 mg and policosanol 10 mg) on insulin resistance, lipid profile, particularly on small and dense LDL cholesterol (sdLDL-C), representing the most atherogenic components, as well as its effects on high sensitivity C-reactive protein, a notable marker of cardiovascular risk, blood pressure and cardiac remodeling in subjects affected by MetS, with left ventricular hypertrophy.

Methods

The study was a prospective, multi-center, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial. One hundred and fifty eight patients, aged between 28 and 76 years old, were enrolled and randomized to receive either one tablet of AP or placebo (PL) once daily for 24 weeks. Anthropometric and vital parameters, total cholesterol (tot-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglyceridemia (TG), non-HDL cholesterol (NHDL-C) and sdLDL-C were evaluated.

Results

After 24 weeks of treatment, the analysis performed on 141 subjects (71 in AP arm and 70 in PL arm), showed a significant improvement of lipid profile in the AP group, with reduction in tot-C (− 13.2 mg/dl), LDL-C (− 13.9 mg/dl) and NHDL-C (− 15.3 mg/dl) and increase in HDL-C (+ 2.0 mg/dl). These changes were equally significant compared with placebo (tot-C: AP − 13.2 mg/dL vs PL + 2.7 mg/dL, p < 0.01; LDL-C: AP -13.9 mg/dl vs PL + 1.5 mg/dl, p < 0.01; NHDL-C: AP -15.3 mg/dl vs PL + 2.8 mg/dl, p < 0.01), Although no significant difference was observed between the two arms in the reduction of HDL-C nevertheless it increased significantly in the AP group (AP + 2 mg/dL p < 0.05, PL 0.13 mg/dL).

Conclusion

The results of this study, applicable to a specific local population show that, in a population of subjects affected by MetS, treatment with AP improves the lipid profile and the most atherogenic factors, thus suggesting a reduction in the risk of development and progression of atherosclerosis, particularly in subjects with high atherogenic risk, due to the presence of sdLDL-C.

Latest Updates on Lipid Management

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide. Despite the clinical long-term and near-term benefits of lowering cholesterol in, respectively, primary and secondary prevention of ASCVD, cholesterol levels remain under-treated, with many patients not achieving their recommended targets. The present article will review the latest updates on lipid management with emphases on the different classes of cholesterol-lowering agents and their clinical uses.

A Randomized Clinical Efficacy Trial of Red Yeast Rice (Monascus pilosus) Against Hyperlipidemia

Red yeast rice (RYR) has been used as an alternative treatment for hyperlipidemia. According to the previous studies, other compounds, besides monacolin K in RYR, may also reduce the serum lipid level. This study aims at examining the efficacy of monacolin K-rich and Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)-rich RYR (Monascus pilosus) with regards to treating hyperlipidemia in a randomized control, double-blind clinical trial. In the research, we assigned 50 eligible subjects to monacolin K-rich RYR, GABA-rich RYR and placebo groups ( n=16 , 17, 17, respectively). The concentrations of TC, LDL-C, HDL, TG and blood biochemical data were evaluated at different phases: before applying (visit 1), after 1-month (visit 2), 2-month (visit 3), 3-month (visit 4) of providing the intervention and 1-month after ending the test food (visit 5) among three groups. During the 3-month intervention, the serum TC and LDL-C levels decreased significantly in the monacolin K group compared to the baseline and the other two groups. The Serum TG level declined steadily but was not statistically significant. Meanwhile, no marked differences in the serum HDL level were revealed among the three groups. Most safety assessment data had minor variation except two subjects (in monacolin K and GABA group separately) reported elevated liver enzymes. Monacolin K-rich RYR can reduce cholesterol as expected, while the GABA-rich RYR performed non-significant reduction on serum triglyceride. The research results demonstrate that using different concentrations and ratios between monacolin K and GABA could be beneficial for antihyperlipidemia.

Pharmacology of Nutraceuticals with Lipid Lowering Properties

Lowering total and, in particular, LDL cholesterol reduces cardiovascular risk and clinical events. Cholesterol-lowering strategies are manifold. Better diets and positive lifestyle changes are the foremost approach; the use of functional foods, of food supplements/nutraceuticals, and pharmacological treatment must be considered in patients with increasing lipid abnormalities and or increasing cardiovascular risk. Here, we briefly review the most frequently occurring cholesterol-lowering substances found in functional foods or nutraceuticals, i.e. plant sterols and stanols, monacolin K found in red yeast rice, berberine and beta-glucans. We intentionally use a colloquial style to convey our message, which physicians can forward to their patients. We underscore that these preparations are effective either alone or in combination, but that patients should use them after careful discussion with primary care physicians or specialists.

Safety of red yeast rice supplementation: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Recently, concerns regarding the safety of red yeast rice (RYR) have been raised after the publication of some case reports claiming toxicity. Since the previous meta-analyses on the effects of RYR were mainly focused on its efficacy to improve lipid profile and other cardiovascular parameters, we carried out a meta-analysis on safety data derived from the available randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs). Primary outcomes were musculoskeletal disorders (MuD). Secondary outcomes were non-musculoskeletal adverse events (Non-MuD) and serious adverse events (SAE). Subgroups analyses were carried out considering the intervention (RYR alone or in association with other nutraceutical compounds), monacolin K administered daily dose (≤3, 3.1-5 or >5 mg/day), follow-up (>12 or ≤12 weeks), with statin therapy or statin-intolerance and type of control treatment (placebo or statin treatment). Data were pooled from 53 RCTs comprising 112 treatment arms, which included 8535 subjects, with 4437 in the RYR arm and 4303 in the control one. Monacolin K administration was not associated with increased risk of MuD (odds ratio (OR) = 0.94, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.53,1.65). Moreover, we showed reduced risk of Non-MuD (OR = 0.59, 95%CI 0.50, 0.69) and SAE (OR = 0.54, 95%CI 0.46, 0.64) vs. control. Subgroups analyses confirmed the high tolerability profile of RYR. Furthermore, increasing daily doses of monacolin K were negatively associated with increasing risk of Non-MuD (slope: -0.10; 95%CI: -0.17, -0.03; two-tailed p < 0.01). Based on our data, RYR use as lipid-lowering dietary supplement seems to be overall tolerable and safe in a large kind of moderately hypercolesterolaemic subjects.

Nutraceutical approach for the management of cardiovascular risk - a combination containing the probiotic Bifidobacterium longum BB536 and red yeast rice extract: results from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

BACKGROUND

Probiotics incorporated into dairy products have been shown to reduce total (TC) and LDL cholesterolemia (LDL-C) in subjects with moderate hypercholesterolemia. More specifically, probiotics with high biliary salt hydrolase activity, e.g. Bifidobacterium longum BB536, may decrease TC and LDL-C by lowering intestinal cholesterol reabsorption and, combined with other nutraceuticals, may be useful to manage hypercholesterolemia in subjects with low cardiovascular (CV) risk. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a nutraceutical combination containing Bifidobacterium longum BB536, red yeast rice (RYR) extract (10 mg/day monacolin K), niacin, coenzyme Q10 (Lactoflorene Colesterolo®). The end-points were changes of lipid CV risk markers (LDL-C, TC, non-HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG), apolipoprotein B (ApoB), HDL-C, apolipoprotein AI (ApoAI), lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a), proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9)), and of markers of cholesterol synthesis/absorption.

METHODS

A 12-week randomized, parallel, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Thirty-three subjects (18-70 years) in primary CV prevention and low CV risk (SCORE: 0-1% in 24 and 2-4% in 9 subjects; LDL-C: 130-200 mg/dL) were randomly allocated to either nutraceutical (N = 16) or placebo (N = 17).

RESULTS

Twelve-week treatment with the nutraceutical combination, compared to placebo, significantly reduced TC (- 16.7%), LDL-C (- 25.7%), non-HDL-C (- 24%) (all p < 0.0001), apoB (- 17%, p = 0.003). TG, HDL-C, apoAI, Lp(a), PCSK9 were unchanged. Lathosterol:TC ratio was significantly reduced by the nutraceutical combination, while campesterol:TC ratio and sitosterol:TC ratio did not change, suggesting reduction of synthesis without increased absorption of cholesterol. No adverse effects and a 97% compliance were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

A 12-week treatment with a nutraceutical combination containing the probiotic Bifidobacterium longum BB536 and RYR extract significantly improved the atherogenic lipid profile and was well tolerated by low CV risk subjects.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT02689934 .

Dietary natural products as emerging lipoprotein(a)-lowering agents

Elevated plasma lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Hitherto, niacin has been the drug of choice to reduce elevated Lp(a) levels in hyperlipidemic patients but its efficacy in reducing CVD outcomes has been seriously questioned by recent clinical trials. Additional drugs may reduce to some extent plasma Lp(a) levels but the lack of a specific therapeutic indication for Lp(a)-lowering limits profoundly reduce their use. An attractive therapeutic option is natural products. In several preclinical and clinical studies as well as meta-analyses, natural products, including l-carnitine, coenzyme Q ₁₀ , and xuezhikang were shown to significantly decrease Lp(a) levels in patients with Lp(a) hyperlipoproteinemia. Other natural products, such as pectin, Ginkgo biloba, flaxseed, red wine, resveratrol and curcuminoids can also reduce elevated Lp(a) concentrations but to a lesser degree. In conclusion, aforementioned natural products may represent promising therapeutic agents for Lp(a) lowering.

Isoflavones enhance pharmacokinetic exposure of active lovastatin acid via the upregulation of carboxylesterase in high-fat diet mice after oral administration of Xuezhikang capsules

Xuezhikang capsule (XZK) is a traditional Chinese medicine that contains lovastatin (Lv) for hyperlipidemia treatment, although it has fewer side effects than Lv. However, the pharmacokinetic mechanisms contributing to its distinct efficacy and low side effects are unclear. Mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 6 weeks to induce hyperlipidemia. We first conducted the pharmacokinetic studies in HFD mice following oral administration of Lv (10 mg/kg, i.g.) and found that HFD remarkably decreased the active form of Lv (the lovastatin acid, LvA) exposure in the circulation system, especially in the targeting organ liver, with a declined conversion from Lv to LvA, whereas the Lv (responsible for myotoxicity) exposure in muscle markedly increased. Then we compared the pharmacokinetic profiles of Lv in HFD mice after the oral administration of XZK (1200 mg/kg, i.g.) or an equivalent dose of Lv (10 mg/kg, i.g.). A higher exposure of LvA and lower exposure of Lv were observed after XZK administration, suggesting a pharmacokinetic interaction of some ingredients in XZK. Further studies revealed that HFD promoted the inflammation and inhibited carboxylesterase (CES) activities in the intestine and the liver, thus contributing to the lower transformation of Lv into LvA. In contrast, XZK inhibited the inflammation and upregulated CES in the intestine and the liver. Finally, we evaluated the effects of monacolins and phytosterols, the fractional extracts of isoflavones, on inflammatory LS174T or HepG2 cells, which showed that isoflavones inhibited inflammation, upregulated CES, and markedly enhanced the conversion of Lv into LvA. For the first time, we provide evidence that isoflavones and Lv in XZK act in concert to enhance the efficacy and reduce the side effects of Lv.

The short-term supplementation of monacolin K improves the lipid and metabolic patterns of hypertensive and hypercholesterolemic subjects at low cardiovascular risk

Background - The clinical hypocholesterolemic effect of nutraceutical compounds (NCs) containing red yeast rice extracts providing a daily dose of 2.5-10 mg of monacolin K is now well established. For this reason, NCs may be a viable alternative to the statin drugs commonly used to lower cholesterol levels. However, in order to avoid some possible statin-like side effects, most NCs available on the market contain low doses of monacolin K, which could reduce their efficacy. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and safety of a NC containing high doses of monacolin K (10 mg) in improving the lipid profile and glucose metabolism when added to the diet versus the diet alone in a group of hypertensive and hyper-cholesterolemic subjects at low cardiovascular risk. Methods - Thirty subjects with grade-1 essential hypertension (mean age 51.5 ± 7.8 years, 62.9% males) were enrolled in the treatment group (NC group). These subjects followed a programmed diet and took one tablet a day of a NC containing red yeast rice, policosanols, resveratrol and chromium picolinate for 1 month and were compared with an equivalent group of subjects that followed only a diet program. Differences in serum total cholesterol (TC), low-density- and high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC and HDLC), triglycerides (TG) and blood glucose between groups were compared by analysis of variance. Results - In both groups, a significant reduction of TC, TG and LDLC was observed. In the treatment group from the baseline to the follow-up the reduction of TC (230.93 ± 28.0 vs. 188.63 ± 18.1, p < 0.001) and LDLC (153.10 ± 22.5 vs. 116.54 ± 17.7, p < 0.001) was significantly greater compared to the control group (differences between treatments = 9.19% and 12.29%, respectively); in addition a significant higher reduction in blood glucose (89.1 ± 7.6 vs. 83.7 ± 4.6, p < 0.001) was also observed (differences between treatments = 4.28%). HDLC levels remained unchanged in both groups. Conclusions - In summary, the NC containing high doses of monacolin K appeared to be safe, well tolerated and effective at improving lipid and glucose patterns.

Scientific opinion on the safety of monacolins in red yeast rice

The Panel on Food Additives and Nutrient Sources added to Food (ANS) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety of monacolins in red yeast rice (RYR) and to provide advice on a dietary intake of monacolins that does not give rise to concerns about harmful effects to health. The Panel reviewed the scientific evidences available as well as the information provided by interested parties in response of a public 'Call for data' launched by EFSA. The Panel considered that monacolin K in lactone form is identical to lovastatin, the active ingredient of several medicinal products authorised for the treatment of hypercholesterolaemia in the EU. On the basis of the information available, the Panel concluded that intake of monacolins from RYR via food supplements, could lead to estimated exposure to monacolin K within the range of the therapeutic doses of lovastatin. The Panel considered that the available information on the adverse effects reported in humans were judged to be sufficient to conclude that monacolins from RYR when used as food supplements were of significant safety concern at the use level of 10 mg/day. The Panel further considered that individual cases of severe adverse reactions have been reported for monacolins from RYR at intake levels as low as 3 mg/day. The Panel concluded that exposure to monacolin K from RYR could lead to severe adverse effects on musculoskeletal system, including rhabdomyolysis, and on the liver. In the reported cases, the product contained other ingredients in addition to RYR. However, these reported effects in particular musculoskeletal effects, have both occurred after ingestion of monacolin K and lovastatin independently. On the basis of the information available and several uncertainties highlighted in this opinion, the Panel was unable to identify a dietary intake of monacolins from RYR that does not give rise to concerns about harmful effects to health, for the general population, and as appropriate, for vulnerable subgroups of the population.

Monascus purpureus for statin and ezetimibe intolerant heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia patients: A clinical study

BACKGROUND

Hypercholesterolaemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and requires effective therapy in affected patients. Statins, the mainstay of lipid-lowering therapy, can cause side effects, including myalgia, in some patients. Ezetimibe, is frequently used as an add-on therapy for statins, and is also used as a monotherapy in statin-intolerant patients, however elevations in liver transaminases can occur. We examined the lipid-lowering efficacy of the natural fungal product Monascus purpureus (MP), which contains the natural statin monacolin K.

METHODS

Fifty-five patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia who had discontinued statins due to muscle symptoms. Patients were placed on a lipid-lowering diet cholesterol-lowering diet (1500-1800 kcal daily, 30% lipids, 19% proteins and 52% carbohydrates). MP was added to the diet at a dose of 300 mg (providing monacolin K 10 mg). Patients were followed for 12 months. Lipid profiles and adverse event data were collected in the normal course of patient care.

RESULTS

After 6 months of treatment with MP and diet therapy, statistically significant changes in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were evident (-17% for males, -16% for females; p < 0.005) Levels fell to -24% and -27% respectively at 12 months. No patients experienced elevated serum aminotransferases or C-reactive protein levels.

CONCLUSIONS

MP is a viable option for lipid-lowering therapy in statin-intolerant patients with hypercholesterolaemia, with good efficacy and safety profiles.