Rapamycin (the mTOR inhibitor with the strongest lifespan extension data in mice: 9–14% median lifespan increase) and senolytics address different aging mechanisms. Rapamycin slows mTOR-driven cellular aging and may reduce the rate of senescent cell formation; senolytics clear senescent cells that have already accumulated. Evidence from animal studies suggests the combination outperforms either alone.

Is rapamycin safe for long-term use?

At the low intermittent doses used for longevity (5–8 mg weekly), rapamycin's immunosuppressive effects are substantially reduced vs transplant doses (daily, high-dose). However, even low-dose rapamycin carries infection risk that requires medical monitoring.

Can senolytics replace rapamycin entirely?

No direct substitution. Senolytics clear existing senescent cells; rapamycin slows their formation and modulates general mTOR-driven aging. The two address different phases of the same cellular aging process.