Cholesterol-lowering supplements and medications can cause a range of side effects, depending on the specific product used.
Red yeast rice, a common supplement, may cause mild gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, gas, stomach pain, headaches, heartburn, and upset stomach. More serious side effects, while less common, can include muscle problems, elevation of liver enzymes, and liver toxicity. Additionally, red yeast rice may cause allergic reactions and can potentially interact with other medications, including statins, antibiotics, antifungals, and some antidepressants. It is not considered safe for those with kidney or liver disease, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people allergic to yeast or fungus. There are also safety concerns about product consistency and potential contamination. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting red yeast rice[3][5].
Ezetimibe (brand name Zetia, and found in some combination products) is a prescription medication that reduces cholesterol absorption in the intestines. Common side effects include abdominal pain and diarrhea. Less commonly, patients may experience muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, fever, chest pain, nausea, extreme tiredness, unusual bleeding or bruising, loss of appetite, pain in the upper right abdomen, flu-like symptoms, dark-colored urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling, and hoarseness. If side effects are not manageable, a different medication or combination of therapies may be considered. Ezetimibe is typically prescribed for patients who cannot tolerate statins or need additional cholesterol-lowering beyond statins[2][6][7][1].