Advanced Therapies
These therapies go beyond the fundamentals. They are explored by longevity researchers but require medical supervision.
Medical warning
These interventions require medical supervision. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new protocol.
Prescription medications
Some medications show promising longevity effects in animal studies and are being explored in human research.
Rapamycin
mTOR inhibitor. Animal studies show significant life extension. Human use still experimental.
Simplified mechanism
Rapamycin inhibits mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin), a protein that regulates cell growth. By inhibiting it, it activates autophagy — the cellular cleanup process that removes damaged components.
Key studies
Potential side effects
- Mouth sores
- Delayed wound healing
- Immunosuppression at high doses
- Dyslipidemia
Acarbose
Alpha-glucosidase inhibitor. Reduces post-meal blood sugar spikes. Potential anti-aging effect via mTOR pathway.
Simplified mechanism
Acarbose slows digestion of complex carbohydrates by inhibiting alpha-glucosidase enzymes. This reduces post-meal glucose spikes, thereby reducing stress on mTOR and associated aging pathways.
Key studies
- ITP: +22% lifespan in male mice, +5% in females (lien)
- Reduced lung tumors and liver degeneration in mice
Potential side effects
- Flatulence
- Abdominal distension
- Diarrhea (especially initially)
Rapamycin + Acarbose Combination
The combination of these two molecules shows potential synergy in animal studies, as the mechanisms are complementary (autophagy + glycemic control). This approach is explored by some longevity-focused physicians but remains experimental in humans.
Regular blood donation
Blood donation presents several potential longevity benefits, beyond the altruistic act. (lien)
- Reduces iron overload (elevated ferritin = risk factor)
- Stimulates production of new blood cells
- Dilutional effect on circulating pro-aging factors
- Frequency: according to medical recommendations and eligibility
Red light therapy
Red/near-infrared light therapy stimulates mitochondria and promotes tissue regeneration.
Mechanism: Red light is absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase in mitochondria, increasing ATP production and releasing NO (nitric oxide). This stimulates cellular respiration and regeneration. (lien)
630-670nm (red) and 810-850nm (near-infrared)
10 min/day, full body or targeted areas
Collagen production, wound healing, mitochondrial health, muscle recovery
Finnish dry sauna
Finnish dry sauna has the strongest clinical evidence of all sauna types. Its mechanism is unique and cannot be replaced by infrared or steam rooms.
Recommended type: Finnish dry sauna (NOT infrared or steam)
Dry sauna has the strongest clinical evidence and a unique thermal stress mechanism.
Recommended parameters
80-100°C (175-212°F)
3-7x/week (optimal 4-7x)
15-20 min per session
Proven results
- -63% cardiovascular mortality (4-7x/week vs 1x) (lien)
- -40% all-cause mortality
- Massive detoxification: 2,4-D -65%, several toxins reduced to undetectable
- Central blood pressure improvement -12.6%
Male fertility protection
Sauna heat affects sperm production. Simple protection can preserve — even improve — fertility.
Without protection (15 sessions)
- -54% motile count
- -57% motility
- -55% normal morphology
With protection (27 sessions)
- +57% motile count
- +26% concentration
- +16% motility
- +15% morphology
Ice protocol
Non-toxic reusable ice pack. Cotton boxer + shorts, pack between the two. Maintain throughout the session.
Rehydration: 1L mineralized water after each session.
Contraindications
- Serious heart problems
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Pregnancy (consult doctor)
- Fever/infection
- History of seizures
- Respiratory conditions (asthma, COPD)
- Irritated/inflamed skin
- Recent alcohol/drugs
- Medications: beta-blockers, stimulants, anticholinergics, diuretics
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
HBOT is among the highest-value therapies for longevity. It requires access to specialized facilities. (lien)
HBOT Protocol
100% O2 at 2 atmospheres
60 sessions, 5x/week
90 min (20 min O2 + 5 min air break, repeat)
Hard shell, pressurized ambient air + 100% O2 mask
Avoid 100% ambient O2 chambers: Eye irritation and cataract risk. Higher ignition risk. Difficult to take breaks.
Expensive therapy, limited access. Individual results vary.
Other medications explored
These medications have approved indications but are being studied for their potential longevity effects.
Improves endothelial function, reduces inflammation, potential cardiovascular protection. (lien)
Angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), reduces blood pressure, protects kidney function, possible brain inflammation reduction. (lien)
SGLT-2 inhibitor (blocks kidney glucose reabsorption), caloric restriction mimetic, proven cardiac protection. (lien)
Anti-PCSK9 antibody (inhibits PCSK9 protein that regulates LDL elimination), LDL cholesterol optimization for those who can't tolerate statins. (lien)
Insulin sensitizer, potential anti-aging effects. TAME study ongoing. (lien)