monascus, a natural product derived from red yeast grown on rice, traditionally used in Chinese medicine and now in more common use as both a medicine and a foodstuff. Commercially prepared supplements are grown under conditions that maximize the production of mevinic acids (statins), primarily lovastatin, agents manufactured and sold by pharmaceutical companies that inhibit cholesterol synthesis. Also called red yeast. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is used to help maintain acceptable cholesterol levels. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: It should not be used during pregnancy and lactation, in children, or in those with known hypersensitivity to monascus or with hepatic disease such as cirrhosis or fatty liver.
