However, according to the study Analyses of the 12 products included in this study found that levels of total monacolins ranged from 0.31 milligrams to 11.15 milligrams per capsule, and levels of monacolin K or lovastatin ranged from 0.10 milligrams to just over. The toxin is produced by a fungus. Dermot of Chestnut Hill Hospital in Philadelphia, and Abington Memorial Hospital in Abington, Pa. This is likely related to the effects of monacolin K and the 13 other monacolins in the supplement, which also works to lower the production of cholesterol in the liver," wrote a team led by Dr.

"Several studies have shown that specific formulations of red yeast rice reduce low density lipoprotein [LDL or 'bad'] cholesterol significantly compared with placebo. In fact, monacolin K is purified and marketed as the cholesterol lowering drug lovastatin (Mevacor), the researchers noted. In addition, four of the 12 products included in the study had detectable levels of a potentially toxic compound called citrinin, which can damage the kidneys.

In 2008, Americans spent about $20 million on red yeast rice supplements.