mTOR inhibitors are a class of drugs that suppress the mTOR signaling pathway, a central regulator of cell growth, proliferation, and metabolism. By inhibiting mTOR, these drugs mimic some of the cellular effects of caloric restriction, such as promoting autophagy (cellular cleaning) and reducing inflammation. This mechanism has robustly extended lifespan and healthspan in numerous model organisms, making it a primary target for geroscience research.
Verdict
Highly promising for healthspan, but requires careful medical supervision due to risks.
HEALTHSPAN IMPACT
High Value
RISK LEVEL
High
EVIDENCE GRADE
B
MONTHLY COST
$150 - $400
Protocol
- Common off-label healthspan protocols involve intermittent dosing, such as 5-10 mg once weekly.
- Some protocols use a 'rapamycin holiday' approach, with several weeks on followed by weeks off to mitigate side effects.
Flags
- Increases risk of infections due to immunosuppressive effects.
- May cause mouth sores (stomatitis), metabolic changes (hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia), and impaired wound healing.
- Interacts with many common medications and grapefruit juice, which inhibits its metabolism.
- Long-term safety of intermittent use for healthspan is not yet established in humans.
- Potential for negative effects on fertility and muscle protein synthesis.