Sirolimus (Rapamycin)
Sirolimus—also known by its original name Rapamycin—is a prescription medication that’s gaining significant attention in longevity and anti-aging medicine for its ability to support cellular repair, inflammation control, and metabolic balance.
Originally approved as an immunosuppressant for organ transplant patients, Sirolimus is now being used off-label under medical supervision to modulate the mTOR pathway—a key regulator of aging and cellular regeneration.
Sirolimus works by inhibiting mTOR (mechanistic Target of Rapamycin), a cellular pathway that regulates growth, metabolism, and autophagy (the body’s way of cleaning out damaged cells). Overactivity of mTOR is linked to accelerated aging, chronic inflammation, and age-related diseases.
By strategically slowing down mTOR activity, Sirolimus may help:
Promote cellular maintenance and longevity
Reduce systemic inflammation
Improve insulin sensitivity
Support metabolic and immune health
When used under expert guidance in low, intermittent doses, Sirolimus is being explored as a promising tool in life extension, healthy aging, and disease prevention.
Supports Healthy Aging
May slow biological aging markers by promoting autophagy and reducing age-related cellular stress.
Improves Immune Regulation
Modulates immune function, potentially reducing low-grade chronic inflammation (“inflammaging”).
Enhances Cellular Repair
Stimulates internal cleanup processes that remove damaged cells and organelles.
May Improve Metabolic Markers
Early studies suggest potential improvements in insulin sensitivity and glucose control.
Neuroprotective Potential
Research is ongoing into Rapamycin’s ability to protect against cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disease.
Note: These benefits are based on preliminary human and animal studies. Sirolimus is not FDA-approved for anti-aging or longevity.
Your provider will determine the dosing protocol based on your health goals, labs, and tolerance.
Prescription Required
Sirolimus must be prescribed and monitored by a licensed medical provider.
Not Approved for Anti-Aging Use
Use in longevity or functional medicine protocols is considered off-label.
Possible Side Effects
May include mouth ulcers, fatigue, GI discomfort, headache, or delayed wound healing. Side effects are more common with high or daily doses.
Immune Suppression at High Doses
Although low-dose regimens are not typically immunosuppressive, higher doses used for transplant rejection can significantly suppress immune function.
Monitoring Required
Regular blood work is essential to monitor white blood cell counts, lipids, glucose, liver and kidney function, and inflammatory markers.
Contraindications
Not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or for individuals with active infections, uncontrolled diabetes, or recent surgeries.