High LDL / ApoB
The particle count (ApoB Apolipoprotein B, a protein carried once on each cholesterol particle that can enter the artery wall, so it counts those particles directly.) predicts risk more closely than LDL Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, the cholesterol fraction most closely tied to plaque in the arteries. cholesterol alone.
The letters on this page
Eight interventions on this page. Six carry a letter; two are listed without one, with the reason.
- •Red yeast rice products can contain pharmacologically meaningful monacolin K, which is chemically lovastatin. Combining them with a prescription statin adds statin-like exposure and may raise muscle and liver toxicity risk; this is not something to do without clinical supervision.
- •Statins lower circulating CoQ10. Whether that reflects a tissue deficit that matters clinically is unsettled, and the 2026 ACC/AHA dyslipidemia guideline advises against routine CoQ10 for statin-attributed muscle symptoms.
- •Berberine lowers LDL and adds to the effect of lipid-lowering medication; any dose change is a decision for the prescriber.
Meta-analysis A study that pools the numbers from several trials into one combined estimate. of 28 placebo-controlled trials: LDL-C about 6 to 7 percent lower
Not graded for this use. Omega-3's graded uses are cardiovascular event endpoints, not lipid levels.
Meta-analysis of 124 randomized studies: LDL-C falls 6 to 12 percent, dose-dependently
Tested with a statin: no reduction in events, more serious adverse events
For statin users. Statins lower blood CoQ10; whether that matters clinically is unsettled
Contains monacolin K; discuss with physician
Not graded for this use. Red yeast rice's graded use is secondary prevention after myocardial infarction, not lipid levels.
Anything in this page is educational only. Whether to start, stop or change a supplement for this condition, and how it fits with any medication you take, is a decision for your clinician. The Drug-Nutrient Depletion tool and the Contraindications Search are designed to help you prepare that conversation.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Any grade on this page describes the strength of published human trial evidence in the populations studied. It is not a recommendation for any individual and is not medical advice. Starting, stopping or changing any supplement or medication is a decision for your physician.