What is Rapamycin?
Rapamycin (sirolimus) is an FDA-approved medication used to help prevent kidney transplant rejection and to treat lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM). It inhibits the mTOR pathway, which regulates cell growth and metabolism. Rapamycin is studied in aging research, but it is not FDA-approved for aging and has not been shown to extend human lifespan.
In laboratory and animal studies, inhibiting mTOR with rapamycin increases autophagy (the cell's recycling process) and has extended lifespan in some species. Those findings have not been shown to translate to longer life or disease prevention in people, and any use of rapamycin for longevity is off-label.
Because rapamycin suppresses the immune system, its labeling carries a boxed warning for increased risk of infection and malignancy. Other side effects can include mouth sores, raised cholesterol and blood sugar, and slower wound healing. A licensed provider reviews your history and decides whether it is appropriate.