Meclizine is an over-the-counter antihistamine primarily used for motion sickness and vertigo. Its relevance to longevity stems from its function as a weak mTOR inhibitor, a key pathway in aging. In the NIA's Interventions Testing Program (ITP), meclizine demonstrated a modest lifespan extension in male mice, but notably, not in females.
Verdict
Promising mouse data is overshadowed by significant long-term cognitive safety concerns.
HEALTHSPAN IMPACT
Experimental
RISK LEVEL
Moderate
EVIDENCE GRADE
C
MONTHLY COST
$5 - $15
Protocol
- A speculative protocol involves taking 12.5mg to 25mg once or twice weekly, based on animal study conversions.
Flags
- Long-term use of anticholinergic drugs is associated with an increased risk of dementia.
- Common side effect is drowsiness; avoid operating heavy machinery.
- May interact with CNS depressants like alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers.
- Lifespan extension was only observed in male mice in the ITP study, not females.