Rapamycin is a decades-old transplant drug now studied as a possible way to slow aging by easing a core cellular growth signal and shifting cells toward repair. In animals it reliably extends healthy lifespan; in people the evidence is early and mixed, with the clearest benefit for immune function and real but manageable trade-offs. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Fasting glucose | 75–90 mg/dL | Detects glucose dysregulation from mTOR inhibition |
| HbA1c | < 5.4% | Tracks longer-term glucose control |
| Fasting insulin / HOMA-IR | Insulin < 6 µIU/mL; HOMA-IR < 1.5 | Early signal of insulin resistance before glucose rises |
| Lipid panel (LDL, triglycerides, HDL) | LDL < 100 mg/dL; triglycerides < 90 mg/dL | Rapamycin commonly raises cholesterol and triglycerides |
| Complete blood count (CBC) | Within normal reference, stable trend | Detects anemia, low platelets, or low white cells |
| Comprehensive metabolic panel (liver enzymes, creatinine, eGFR) | ALT/AST normal; eGFR > 90 mL/min/1.73m² | Monitors liver and kidney function |
| hs-CRP | < 1.0 mg/L | Tracks chronic inflammation, a target of the drug |
| Sirolimus blood trough level | ~5–15 ng/mL if daily dosing | Confirms exposure and avoids toxicity |
| Total testosterone (men) | Mid-to-upper reference range | Screens for possible hormonal effect in men |
Cadence: Repeat the core panel ~4–8 weeks after starting or after a dose increase, then every 3–6 months once stable, with extra checks around any illness or side effect