Rapamycin for Weight Loss

Rapamycin, a macrolide compound first discovered in the soil of Easter Island, is an immunosuppressant that has attracted attention for its potential anti-aging benefits.

Recently, it is also gaining some attention for its potential role in promoting weight loss. Current research in rats indicates that rapamycin could influence metabolic processes and fat storage. Though studies in humans have not yet been conducted, the results are promising for a future release of rapamycin for weight loss.

Rapamycin for weight loss – how does it help to reduce weight?

Rapamycin is an mTOR inhibitor. mTOR is a naturally occurring protein in the body that helps control several cell functions. It is known as a master regulator of cell growth and metabolism.

This mechanism of action is what helps earn rapamycin’s reputation for anticancer and anti-cardiovascular disease benefits. It is also why rapamycin for weight loss may be on the market in the future.

By inhibiting the mTOR pathway, rapamycin can reduce protein synthesis and cell growth, leading to decreased fat accumulation and potentially increased fat breakdown, particularly in adipose (fat) tissue.

One study conducted on rats found that just a single rapamycin administration decreased food intake and daily weight gain over several days. It also showed long-term reduction in body weight lasting 10 weeks without an additional administration.

Even more promising, the study found that the caloric restriction and weight loss caused by the rapamycin did not cause the rebound hyperphagia—the abnormally increased appetite that is difficult to satisfy—that normally accompanies it.

While these findings are promising, it’s important to note that the research is still in the early stages and has been primarily conducted on animal models. But, with such promising results in rats showing the correlation between rapamycin and weight loss, the transition to human trials may not be far off.

Rapamycin Side Effects: Is rapamycin for weight loss safe?

Rapamycin side effects can be tricky to nail down because of how the drug is meant to work—and who it is meant to work for. It’s primarily used as an immunosuppressant and is often utilized for its anti-aging properties. Most people taking rapamycin have cancer or age-related issues, which can make it hard to tell if side effects are from the drug itself or their existing conditions.

Some research indicates that rapamycin side effects are “not remarkable at all” and that the drug has been well tolerated by patients with serious illnesses. But, this is within individuals who are already suffering from major conditions and illnesses.

Other research indicates that the side effects are exaggerated and the ones that do exist are preventable and reversible. This is referring to the thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), anemia and leukopenia, which are common side effects.

Common Side Effects

Mayo Clinic has compiled a list of all reported rapamycin side effects that you should be watching for. Some may require medical attention, like:

Blurred vision
Burning while urinating
Chest pain
Black, red, or tarry stools
Bleeding from the gums or nose
Facial hair growth in females
Rap[id heartbeat
Prolonged bleeding from cuts
Slurred speech

Other side effects are less serious and usually do not require medical attention. These side effects may also be preventable:

Anxiousness/nervousness
Abnormal vision
Acne
Drowsiness
Belching
Blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of the skin
Burning feeling in the chest or stomach
Burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, “pins and needles”, or tingling feeling
Constipation/diarrhea
Continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in the ears
Cracked, dry, or scaly skin
Decrease in frequency and difficulty passing urine
Trouble concentrating
Trouble sleeping

Insulin Resistance

One of the most notable side effects of rapamycin is its tendency to promote glucose intolerance and a diabetes-like syndrome. Known as “starvation diabetes,” this condition is not true type II diabetes.

Despite the weight loss, mTOR inhibition is known to induce muscle insulin resistance. This is caused by an over-activated mTOR pathway.

In simpler terms, while rapamycin can help reduce weight, it can also make your muscles less responsive to insulin. This means your body has a harder time managing blood sugar levels, leading to a state that mimics diabetes.

Rapamycin for weight loss cost

The cost of rapamycin will vary based on your location and your pharmacy of choice. It’s important to note that while insurance might help cover some of the expenses, it’s unlikely that your insurance company will cover the off-label use of rapamycin for weight loss.

Without insurance, rapamycin retails for upwards of $250 per month depending on the pharmacy and location. But there are discounts available.

Heally offers a monthly subscription that allows you to get a rapamycin prescription for $149 per month.

This may seem like a significant out-of-pocket cost, but it is cheaper than most other weight loss medications available. On average, weight loss medications cost $300+ per month with many costing upward of $800 per month.

Where can you get a rapamycin weight loss prescription?

To get a rapamycin weight loss prescription, you’ll need to see a licensed doctor who is knowledgeable about its use for this purpose. You can do this by visiting a doctor in person or through online consultations via telemedicine.

Heally makes it easy to connect with a licensed doctor who understands rapamycin for weight loss. Our telehealth platform makes it easy and cost-effective to obtain a rapamycin weight loss prescription. And, with the monthly subscription, you get the convenience of having the medication delivered directly to your door.

Get expert guidance with minimal hassle—register with Heally today and take the next step towards your weight loss goals!