Rapamycin - The Dose Matters.
- Dr. Thomas J. Lewis
- May 29
- 3 min read
Anti-Aging Supplements Discussion Overview
Dr. Thomas and Bryana discussed the controversial topic of anti-aging supplements, with Dr. Thomas expressing an open-minded but cautious approach to exploring various options. Bryana introduced herself as a licensed compounding pharmacist based in Texas and shared her personal journey into the functional and integrative medicine space, including her background in competitive golf and her father's battle with prostate cancer. They briefly touched on the potential for collaboration in Texas, with Dr. Thomas inquiring about the pharmacy's services and licensing capabilities.
Rapamycin in Compounding Pharmacy
Bryana discussed the use of rapamycin, a repurposed drug, in a non-sterile compounding pharmacy. She explained the pharmacy's focus on partnering with functional and integrative medicine physicians to address root causes of health issues through compounded prescriptions. Bryana highlighted the importance of consistent dosing and quality in compounded medications, noting that Physician's Preference Pharmacy is PCAB accredited and licensed in 48 states, with plans to expand to 49. She also touched on the history of rapamycin, its FDA-approved uses, and its potential for repurposed lower doses in oral capsule form for healthspan and longevity.
mTOR and Cellular Health Regulation
Bryana explained the role of mTOR, a protein that regulates cellular metabolism and is targeted by the drug rapamycin, which is used to inhibit mTOR and promote cellular autophagy. She discussed how mTOR pathway overexpression can lead to various health issues, including cancer, diabetes, and dementia, often related to excess nutrient consumption. Bryana emphasized the importance of balancing mTOR activity and described how rapamycin, by inhibiting mTOR, can help maintain cellular health and potentially increase lifespan.
Rapamycin's Healthspan Applications
Bryana presented on the potential healthspan applications of rapamycin, highlighting its anti-inflammatory properties and benefits in conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. She discussed its effects on weight loss, osteoporosis, hearing loss, and periodontal disease, noting that while rapamycin can delay progression of hearing loss and improve periodontal health due to its anti-inflammatory effects, it may not be effective for tinnitus. The group agreed on the importance of periodontal health, with Dr. Thomas and Michael emphasizing its significance in overall well-being. Bryana concluded by addressing the critical role of dosing in rapamycin's effectiveness, particularly when used for healthspan applications rather than as an organ rejection drug.
Rapamycin Dosing and Mast Cell Activation
Bryana discussed the dosing of rapamycin, explaining that lower doses are often more effective for healthspan applications compared to high doses used in immunosuppressive treatments. She highlighted that most patients take 5 milligrams once a week, with adjustments based on individual needs and conditions like mast cell activation syndrome. Bryana also provided an overview of mast cell activation syndrome, its symptoms, and the challenges in treating it, noting that dietary changes and addressing histamine intolerance are often the first steps. Dr. Thomas and Dr. Michelle shared their experiences with mast cell activation and discussed complementary approaches, including the use of betaine hydrochloride and probiotics.
Rapamycin Dosing and Clinical Benefits
Bryana presented on rapamycin dosing and clinical benefits, noting that 5mg once weekly is effective for most patients, with no dosing adjustment needed for altered kidney function but a 50% reduction for liver function. She discussed the Pearl study results showing safety and improvements in lean muscle mass, bone mineral content, and decreased COVID-19 reports in treatment groups. Dr. Thomas inquired about the relationship between rapamycin and doxycycline, particularly regarding bone healing and anti-inflammatory properties, while Dr. Carter expressed interest in learning more about the medication.
Medical Treatment Benefits and Research
Bryana discussed the benefits and contraindications of a medical treatment, emphasizing its safety and effectiveness, and mentioned its use in conditions like chronic inflammatory response syndrome. She shared her upcoming presentation on the synergistic use of Ldn and amlexanox for mast cell activation syndrome, which Dr. Thomas suggested scheduling a follow-up discussion about. The group also discussed the importance of having knowledgeable pharmacists to guide patients and the need for further exploration of alternative anti-inflammatory strategies.
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