Longevity medicine is booming.
The global anti-aging therapy market surpassed $28 billion in 2024 and is projected to exceed $38 billion by 2029. Venture capital is flowing into biotech, peptides, IV drips, and precision supplements. But with hype this loud, what actually works?
Here’s a breakdown of the most talked-about therapies—and what the science says.
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NAD⁺ Precursors
Includes NR (Nicotinamide Riboside), NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide), and IV NAD⁺.
•Purpose: Supports mitochondrial function, DNA repair, and metabolic health. NAD⁺ levels decline with age.
•Evidence: Animal studies are strong. Early human trials show promise for energy, fatigue, and cognitive support—but no conclusive longevity outcomes yet.
•Verdict: Biologically plausible. Worth exploring under medical guidance; long-term benefit still under investigation.
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Exosomes
Tiny extracellular vesicles that mediate cell signaling and tissue repair.
•Purpose: Used experimentally for inflammation, injury recovery, and regenerative effects.
•Evidence: Mostly preclinical. Human use remains experimental and unregulated. FDA has issued warnings about unapproved exosome therapies.
•Verdict: Cutting-edge but unproven. Proceed cautiously, ideally through clinical trials or research settings.
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Metformin (Glucophage)
An FDA-approved diabetes drug that’s being studied for its potential to slow aging.
•Purpose: Improves insulin sensitivity, reduces inflammation, and may mimic calorie restriction effects.
•Evidence: Strong epidemiological data link metformin use to lower rates of age-related diseases. The TAME (Targeting Aging with Metformin) trial is underway.
•Verdict: The most evidence-supported pharmaceutical for longevity. Still not FDA-approved for this use, but widely studied.
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Peptides
Short chains of amino acids used to regulate biological processes.
•Purpose: Common peptide therapies target healing, inflammation, immune support, and growth hormone regulation (e.g., BPC-157, Thymosin Alpha-1).
•Evidence: Some animal and early-phase human studies show benefit. Clinical applications remain off-label.
•Verdict: Promising but variable in quality and oversight. Use with a trusted, knowledgeable practitioner.
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IV Hydration & Vitamin Injections
Often paired with longevity clinics.
•Purpose: Rapid nutrient delivery, improved energy, hydration, and recovery.
•Evidence: Helpful in acute settings (illness, depletion), but not shown to slow aging or extend life.
•Verdict: Can improve short-term well-being but does not contribute to longevity in healthy individuals.
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Bottom Line
The longevity field is rich with innovation—but also with overpromising.
If you’re exploring these therapies:
•Focus on NAD⁺, peptides, and metformin as emerging tools with scientific rationale.
•Approach exosomes and unregulated clinics with caution.
•Don’t mistake wellness marketing for medical consensus.
