Rapamycin (Sirolimus)
Longevity & Anti-Agingfda_approvedAlso known as: Sirolimus, Rapamune, mTOR Inhibitor
An mTOR inhibitor gaining popularity in longevity research for its ability to slow aging, enhance autophagy, and extend lifespan in multiple species.
Overview
Rapamycin (sirolimus) is an FDA-approved immunosuppressant originally derived from bacteria found on Easter Island. While technically a macrolide rather than a peptide, it is widely discussed in the peptide therapy and longevity community due to its powerful effects on the mTOR pathway — a master regulator of cell growth, metabolism, and aging. Low-dose rapamycin protocols have shown remarkable lifespan extension in animal studies and are increasingly used off-label by longevity physicians.
Mechanism of Action
Rapamycin inhibits mTOR (mechanistic Target of Rapamycin), a kinase that senses nutrient availability and controls cell growth. By inhibiting mTOR: (1) Enhances autophagy — cellular cleanup of damaged proteins and organelles; (2) Reduces cellular senescence and SASP (senescence-associated secretory phenotype); (3) Improves mitochondrial function; (4) Reduces chronic inflammation; (5) Mimics some benefits of caloric restriction without fasting.
Molecular Formula
C51H79NO13
Molecular Weight
914.17 g/mol
Sequence
N/A (macrolide, not amino acid sequence)
Dosage Protocols
Dose Range
1mg – 6mg
Frequency
Once weekly
Route
oral
Cycle Length
Ongoing with periodic breaks
Low-dose weekly protocols are most common in longevity medicine. Typically 3-6mg once per week. Some protocols cycle 8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off.
Source: Longevity physician protocols
🧮 Personalized Dosage Calculator
💰 Estimated Pricing
Typical Supply
1-2mg tablets, 30ct
Last Updated
2026-02
Generic sirolimus widely available. Compounded longevity formulations also available.
⚠️ Prices are estimates based on publicly available data and may vary significantly by vendor, location, and prescription status. This is not medical or financial advice.
Side Effects
| Effect | Severity |
|---|---|
| mild | |
| moderate | |
| mild | |
| moderate |
Pros & Cons
Strongest evidence for lifespan extension of any compound
FDA-approved drug with well-understood safety profile
Enhances autophagy and cellular cleanup
May reduce age-related diseases
Widely available with prescription
Immunosuppression at higher doses
Requires regular blood work monitoring
Not specifically approved for longevity use
Potential lipid elevation
Mouth sores can be bothersome
Research Studies
🩸 Blood Work
No specific bloodwork requirements reported for this peptide. General health panels are always recommended before starting any peptide protocol.
Legal Status
FDA-approved for transplant rejection and certain cancers. Off-label longevity use is legal with prescription.
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