From the Research
Senolytic drugs, such as Dasatinib and Quercetin, should be considered for their potential to alleviate age-related diseases, but their use should be carefully monitored due to potential side effects and limited human clinical evidence, as noted in the most recent study 1.
Overview of Senolytic Drugs
Senolytic drugs are a class of medications that target and eliminate senescent cells, which are aged cells that contribute to aging and age-related diseases. The most commonly used senolytic drugs include:
- Dasatinib (around $200-300 per month)
- Quercetin (an inexpensive supplement at $10-30 monthly)
- Fisetin (approximately $20-50 monthly)
- Navitoclax (ABT-263), a more expensive option at potentially thousands per month, primarily used in research settings
Mechanism of Action and Effects
These drugs work by triggering apoptosis in senescent cells, potentially reducing inflammation and improving tissue function. Typical regimens involve intermittent dosing rather than daily use, such as:
- Dasatinib (100mg) plus Quercetin (1000mg) taken for 3 consecutive days every 3 months
- Fisetin (1000-1500mg daily) for 2-3 consecutive days every few months
Side Effects and Precautions
Side effects can include gastrointestinal issues, potential blood count reductions, and increased bleeding risk. It's essential to note that while animal studies show promising results in extending healthspan, human clinical evidence remains limited, and these drugs should only be used under medical supervision, as many were originally developed for other conditions like cancer 2, 3.
Recent Findings and Recommendations
A recent study published in 2024 1 highlights the potential of senolytic drugs in targeting senescent cells and alleviating age-related diseases, including neurodegeneration. Another study from 2021 4 demonstrates the effectiveness of the senolytic combination of Dasatinib and Quercetin in alleviating intestinal senescence and inflammation in aged mice. Based on the most recent and highest-quality evidence, the use of senolytic drugs, such as Dasatinib and Quercetin, should be considered for their potential to alleviate age-related diseases, but their use should be carefully monitored due to potential side effects and limited human clinical evidence.