According to Pharmanex, the rice has several natural properties that help lower cholesterol, including chemicals statins.

CNN: Studies: Chemical in some Chinese cuisine can lower cholesterol

But that fact that Pharmanex sells any Cholestin at all indicates there is a market for over-the-counter cholesterol medications.

FORBES: FDA Rejects Over-The-Counter Cholesterol Drugs

Why is Pharmanex allowed to sell the compound when Merck can't?

FORBES: FDA Rejects Over-The-Counter Cholesterol Drugs

In the studies, Cholestin had no side effects, except for a few cases of flatulence, according to Joseph Chang, vice president of clinical affairs at Pharmanex.

CNN: Studies: Chemical in some Chinese cuisine can lower cholesterol

Because Pharmanex calls Cholestin a nutritional supplement, and a court case found that the FDA does not have the authority to regulate Pharmanex in the sale of nutritional supplements.

FORBES: FDA Rejects Over-The-Counter Cholesterol Drugs

However, another company called Pharmanex , a subsidiary of Nu Skin Enterprises nus (nyse: nus - news - people), peddles the same compound under the brand name Cholestin.

FORBES: FDA Rejects Over-The-Counter Cholesterol Drugs