Rapamycin drug could slow aging

Rapamycin, a drug known for its ability to prevent organ rejection in kidney transplant patients, has recently gained attention in the field of anti-aging medicine.

Although its primary use is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an immunosuppressant, it has begun to be used off-label to try to prolong human longevity. This trend has generated debate in the medical community due to the lack of conclusive studies on its safety and effectiveness for this purpose.

The mechanism behind the interest in rapamycin centers on its effect on the mTOR pathway, a key cellular pathway that influences cell growth and aging. Previous research has shown that inhibiting this pathway can extend lifespan in animal models, including yeast, worms, flies and mice. However, there is still a long way to go to confirm these effects in humans.

Dr. Andrea B. Maier, professor of aging research at the National University of Singapore, highlighted in an interview with Fox News Digital that rapamycin could have benefits in preventing aging-related diseases. A recent study published in the journal Lancet Healthy Longevity showed that the drug improved certain aspects of skin aging, which has been one of the most visible findings to date.

For his part, molecular biologist Daniel Tawfik, co-founder of the Healthspan digital clinic in California, has begun using rapamycin with some of his patients in the context of therapies to reduce cellular aging. Their approach, Tawfik explained, is based on preventing the accumulation of senescent cells, which are cells that have stopped functioning properly and contribute to tissue deterioration and inflammation in the body. By slowing the transformation of healthy cells into senescent ones, it is hoped to preserve organ function and improve overall health during the aging process.

Despite these promises, the use of rapamycin for anti-aging purposes is not approved by the FDA. The drug has been authorized only for use in the treatment of organ transplants and certain types of cancer. “Off-label” use for other purposes, such as longevity, has not been evaluated by regulatory authorities. According to Elaena Quattrocchi, a registered pharmacist and associate professor at Long Island University, this means that doctors who prescribe rapamycin for aging should warn their patients that it has not been officially approved for that use. Additionally, patients should be monitored closely to evaluate for any side effects.

The potential benefits are not without risks. Clinical studies in humans have shown that, although adverse reactions are usually mild or moderate and reversible after discontinuation of treatment, there are possible negative effects such as an increase in infections, higher levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. These adverse effects are especially in older individuals or with age-related conditions. Tawfik stressed the importance of carefully monitoring patients using this drug, since high doses can cause unwanted immunosuppression.

Although the scientific community continues to explore the use of rapamycin in aging, the lack of robust data in humans poses a challenge. Most current research has focused on laboratory animals, leaving several unknowns regarding its long-term application in humans. “We need more studies evaluating the effects of rapamycin on aging and how it may impact other organ systems in humans,” Maier said.

Despite these challenges, the drug’s popularity continues to rise, especially in clinics specializing in anti-aging therapies. Longevity specialists recommend that anyone interested in this type of treatment consult their doctor and avoid self-medication. Medical supervision is crucial to ensure that the doses administered are safe and effective, as well as reducing the possibility of serious adverse effects.

Although rapamycin could represent an advance in the fight against aging, its use in this field is still surrounded by uncertainties. Experts agree that, while the drug shows great potential, there is still much research to be done before it can be considered a viable and safe treatment for prolonging life in humans.

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