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Rapamycin (Longevity Context) Side Effects & Safety

Evidence:Emerging
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary — consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Safety Profile

Overall safety rating: Professional Guidance Recommended

Potential Side Effects

  • Immunosuppression — the primary concern; daily dosing suppresses immunity, but weekly low-dose protocols aim to minimize this
  • Mouth sores (aphthous ulcers) — the most common side effect at longevity doses; often dose-limiting
  • Impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance at higher/continuous doses
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Lipid elevation (increased LDL and triglycerides)
  • Potential fertility effects — reversible in animal models but relevant concern

Drug & Supplement Interactions

  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole, grapefruit, clarithromycin) — dramatically increase rapamycin blood levels; potentially dangerous
  • CYP3A4 inducers (rifampin, St. John's Wort) — reduce rapamycin levels
  • Live vaccines — contraindicated due to immunosuppressive effects
  • Other immunosuppressants — additive immune suppression
  • Metformin — commonly combined in longevity protocols; potential additive glucose effects

Maximum Dose

Do not exceed: 6mg/week for longevity protocols (daily dosing at transplant doses causes immunosuppression)

Full Rapamycin (Longevity Context) Guide

References

  1. RCTMannick JB, Del Giudice G, Sabatini M, et al. (2014). mTOR inhibition improves immune function in the elderly. Science Translational Medicine. DOI PubMed
  2. ReviewBlagosklonny MV (2019). Rapamycin for longevity: opinion article. Aging. DOI PubMed
  3. RCTHarrison DE, Strong R, Sharp ZD, et al. (2009). Rapamycin fed late in life extends lifespan in genetically heterogeneous mice. Nature. DOI PubMed