Japanese cholesterol tablets spark health scare after 2 die and over 100 hospitalised

Two deaths and over 100 hospitalisations in Japan have been linked to a dietary supplement produced by Kobayashi Pharmaceutical. The tablets, intended to lower cholesterol, were recalled after complaints emerged. The supplements, used as an alternative to statins for cholesterol reduction, contain red yeast rice, or beni koji, which could cause organ damage. Kobayashi Pharmaceutical, known for its wide range of health products, is investigating the incidents, but has not confirmed a direct link between its product and the deaths.