Does EFSA statement on Monacolin content of nutraceutical combinations impair their lipid lowering effect? The LopiGLIK experience

Abstract Background Monacolin-K, the active component of red yeast rice (RYR), reduces cholesterol by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase. Following safety concerns, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recommended limiting Monacolin-K intake to less than 3 mg/day due to adverse effects at higher dose...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Alessia Izzo, Rosa Costanzo, Lucia De Martino, Salvatore Di Napoli
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2024-11-01
Series:Clinical Diabetes and Endocrinology
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Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1186/s40842-024-00204-6
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Summary:Abstract Background Monacolin-K, the active component of red yeast rice (RYR), reduces cholesterol by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase. Following safety concerns, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recommended limiting Monacolin-K intake to less than 3 mg/day due to adverse effects at higher doses. Case presentation : A study comparing Armolipid Plus® and LopiGLIK® found LopiGLIK® more effective in lowering LDL cholesterol, possibly due to slightly higher dosages of Berberine and Monacolin-K. Despite reducing Monacolin-K content to 2.99 mg following EFSA guidelines, LopiGLIK® maintained its cholesterol-lowering efficacy. Conclusions Taken together, our results indicate that other ingredients, such as Morus alba, may contribute to LopiGLIK®’s enhanced effectiveness, challenging the notion that minor differences in Monacolin-K dosage account for the observed efficacy.
ISSN:2055-8260