Rapamycin (Sirolimus)
mTOR inhibitor / immunosuppressant
Also known as: Sirolimus, Rapamune
An approved immunosuppressant (transplant, certain cancers) studied intensively for longevity via mTOR inhibition. Anti-aging use in humans is investigational.
Strong animal lifespan-extension evidence and some human immune studies; long-term human longevity benefit is unproven.
Some human RCTs, but limited size, replication, or scope.
Intended use
Approved for organ-transplant rejection prophylaxis and specific conditions; used off-label/experimentally for longevity.
Mechanism of action
Inhibits the mTOR pathway, mimicking aspects of caloric restriction and modulating cellular growth, autophagy, and immune function.
Reported benefits
Lifespan extension (animals)
Extends lifespan across multiple species in controlled studies.
Immune modulation
Low-dose regimens improved vaccine response in older adults in trials.
Autophagy
Promotes cellular clean-up mechanisms linked to aging.
Risks & side effects
Immunosuppression
high riskCan increase infection risk, especially at higher doses.
Metabolic effects
moderate riskMay affect lipids and glucose metabolism.
Mouth ulcers
low riskCommon dose-dependent side effect.
Research & citations
Studies are ordered by design strength. Dots indicate the rigor of each study type — meta-analyses and double-blind RCTs rank highest, case reports and in vitro work lowest.
- mTOR inhibition and immune function in the elderly
Improved influenza vaccine response with low-dose mTOR inhibitor.
Science Translational Medicine · 2014 · n = ~218
Double-blind RCT - Rapamycin fed late in life extends lifespan in mice
First demonstration of lifespan extension even when started late in life.
Nature · 2009 · n = Mouse cohorts
Animal / Preclinical
Legal status by region
Regulatory status varies widely and changes often. Verify against current local law before acting.
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Prescription | FDA-approved (Rapamune); longevity use is off-label. |
| European Union | Prescription | Approved immunosuppressant. |
| United Kingdom | Prescription | Prescription-only medicine. |
Sourcing & prescribing
Where a compound can legally be obtained, and who is able to prescribe it.
- Legal
Licensed pharmacy (prescription)
On-label via specialist; off-label via longevity-focused physicians.
- Legal
Longevity clinics
Some physicians prescribe off-label with monitoring.
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