Red yeast rice shows promise as alternative to statins but still unproved

A small trial shows the substance shows promise for treating people who can't tolerate statins.

62 adults took the red yeast rice or a matching placebo for six months along with a 12 week programme of education, diet, exercise and relaxation.  The study was commissioned by a surburban cardiology practice in the US.  

The density lipoprotein concentrations fell further for the group taking red yeast rice and the supplement caused no more myalgia than the placebo, despite containing a small amount of lovastatin.

However, there needs to be a much larger trial before it can be considered for prescription.  It can cause rhabdomylesis and there are some inconsistent and possibly toxic formulations on the market.