Beni-koji Choleste-Help

Beni-koji Choleste-Help is a dietary supplement developed and manufactured by Kobayashi Pharmaceutical in Japan. The product is formulated with beni-koji, also known as red yeast rice, which is produced by fermenting rice with the fungus Monascus purpureus. Beni-koji contains monacolin K (chemically identical to lovastatin), a compound known for its cholesterol-lowering properties through inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase, similar to prescription statins[6][7][1]. The supplement was marketed for managing cholesterol levels but was recalled in 2024 after being linked to multiple deaths and over 100 hospitalizations due to acute kidney injury. Investigations revealed contamination with puberulic acid—a nephrotoxic compound produced by Penicillium adametzioides during fermentation—as the likely cause of adverse events[3][4][5]. While traditionally used in East Asian cuisine and medicine, modern supplements like Beni-koji Choleste-Help may contain variable amounts of active compounds and potential contaminants.

Brand names

Beni-koji Choleste-Help

Other names

Benikoji Choleste Help