Can you take Coenzyme Q10 and Red Yeast Rice together?
Red yeast rice contains monacolin K (identical to lovastatin), which inhibits the pathway that produces CoQ10. Supplementing CoQ10 alongside it is standard practice.
Severity
Info
Evidence
strong
Timing
CoQ10 with fatty meal.
How it works
Monacolin K inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, which sits upstream of both cholesterol and CoQ10 in the mevalonate biosynthesis pathway.
The CoQ10 depletion mechanism is identical to prescription statins. Muscle pain and fatigue from red yeast rice may be partly attributable to reduced CoQ10 levels. Supplementing 100–200 mg CoQ10 daily is a common countermeasure.
What to do
Add CoQ10 if you take red yeast rice. Take CoQ10 with a fat-containing meal. Red yeast rice is typically taken with dinner.
Frequently asked
Should I separate Coenzyme Q10 and Red Yeast Rice?
This is an informational interaction. Coenzyme Q10 and Red Yeast Rice are generally fine to take together. Red yeast rice depletes CoQ10 like a statin
Why do Coenzyme Q10 and Red Yeast Rice interact?
Monacolin K inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, which sits upstream of both cholesterol and CoQ10 in the mevalonate biosynthesis pathway.
How strong is the evidence for this interaction?
The evidence is strong, supported by multiple published studies and clinical data.
About these supplements
Other Coenzyme Q10 interactions
Other Red Yeast Rice interactions
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This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.