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Program

WSU Medical School

Training Level

Medical Student

Institution

Wayne State University

Abstract

A 64-year-old female previously taking no medications presented with acute hepatitis 6 weeks after starting a red yeast rice daily supplement to decrease her cholesterol. Red yeast rice is commonly used for hyperlipidemia as an alternative to statins as it contains monacolin K, the same active chemical in lovastatin. Infectious, toxic, and autoimmune causes for injury were ruled out, and liver biopsy was consistent with drug-induced liver injury. Red yeast rice appeared to be the cause of her hepatotoxicity. After discontinuing the supplement and initiating treatment with IV methylprednisolone, liver enzymes decreased toward baseline.

Presentation Date

5-2019

Acute Liver Injury Induced by Red Yeast Rice Supplement

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