Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Alternative Medicine

I would like to know if there are any contraindications with taking the herb red yeast rice with these prescription medications: Topromax 100 mg bid; Zoloft 200 mg @ hs; Xanax 0.5 mg @ hs PRN and oxycodone 5 mg 2 tabs bid for chronic pain.  The red yeast rice will be for reducing my  elevated Cholesterol as noted: (VLDL=18; TRIGLYCERIDES=92; LDL=155; HDL=59; TOTAL CHOLESTEROL=232).  I was initially prescribed Crestor 5 mg by my PCP but due to some severe side affects I stopped taking it. I was looking for an alternative to decrease the high cholesterol level and my friend, who is a cardiologist made a recommendation that I try  red yeast rice to reduce the elevated cholesterol.    I need to know if there are any contraindications with my current medications before I can begin taking it.  I hope you can help answer this question for me.  Thank you.  TRB
2 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
Red yeast rice isn't an herb, it's a food, though that's a small quibble.  By itself, it's not that strong, and is usually used in combination with other things to cut cholesterol, including exercise and dietary changes.  As to contraindications, you'll have to research that.  None that I know of with what you're taking, but this gets complicated since nobody's really researched actual use of natural remedies in conjunction with meds, meaning it's largely theoretical based on the active ingredients in the different substances.  I doubt a naturopath would know, and I know a doctor wouldn't know, so it's something you can google and see what you can learn or contact the American Herbal Products Association and see if they be of help in finding the answer.  Personally, I like Solaray's combination of red yeast rice with guggul, an ayurvedic herb also helpful in cutting cholesterol, but without combining it with diet and exercise changes you're unlikely to get the results you want.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
My suggestion is to see a doctor of Alternative Medicine for advice on this. I will tell you if you go the red yeast Rice way the  Buy Nature's Plus Herbal Actives Red Yeast Rice -- 600 mg - 120 Vegetarian Capsules.
Helpful - 0

You are reading content posted in the Complementary Medicine Community

Popular Resources
Many couples are turning to acupuncture to treat infertility. But does it work? We take a closer look.
Is treating glaucoma with marijuana all hype, or can hemp actually help?
If you think marijuana has no ill effects on your health, this article from Missouri Medicine may make you think again.
Healing home remedies for common ailments
Learn ow this ancient healing Indian medicine can work for you
Before your drop a dime at the pharmacy, find out if these popular cold and flu home remedies are a wonder or a waste