Cholestin (red yeast rice) is a natural supplement typically found as yeast growing on rice grains. According to Drugs.com, Cholestin is a used in conjunction with diet and exercise to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Both cholesterol and trigylcerides are fatty substances that build up in your arteries. Complete obstruction of these arteries in your heart and brain can lead to a heart attack (myocardial infarction) and stroke (cerebrovascular accident), respectively. Take Cholestin as your doctor instructs.
Common Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, Cholestin may cause a headache, stomach pain, bloating, gas (flatulence) and heartburn. Heartburn occurs when your stomach acid changes its direction and moves up your esophagus. You will then experience a burning sensation in your chest and throat. Go to your local pharmacy to purchase an over-the-counter antacid medication. This should provide temporary heartburn relief. Cholestin can also cause dizziness and kidney problems. Your doctor can draw your blood to check your blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. BUN is a substance made in your liver and typically excreted by your kidneys. With kidney problems, your kidneys are unable to filter BUN and it is subsequently elevated. Signs of kidney problems include decreased or frequent urination or bloody urine. Call your physician when Cholestin causes these effects.
Serious Side Effects
Drugs.com indicates that Cholestin may lead to muscle breakdown. Muscle contains myoglobin (an oxygen-carry substance) that is released as your muscles breakdown. This can lead to dark-colored urine and infrequent urination. These are both signs of acute kidney failure. Typical physical manifestations of muscle breakdown include muscle pain or tenderness, fatigue, fever and flu-like symptoms. Call your physician immediately when Cholestin causes these effects.
Additional Concerns
Avoid Cholestin if you have a hypersensitivity reaction to red yeast rice. A hypersensitivity response to Cholestin includes trouble breathing, facial or throat swelling and hives. Do not use Cholestin during pregnancy or breastfeeding. MedlinePlus indicates that Cholestin contains similar ingredients to other prescription medications contraindicated in pregnancy and nursing. Inform your doctor if you have asthma, a severe infection or kidney disease. You may not be able to take Cholestin. Drugs.com says that you must tell your doctor if you take cyclosporine, danazol, nefazodone, niacin, atorvastatin, gemfibrozil or ketoconazole. Your doctor may have to adjust Cholestin's dose.
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