Aging & Longevity

Study points to ibuprofen as possible new anti-aging medicine

Buck Institute study shows popular over-the counter drug extends lifespan in yeast, worms and flies

Dec. 20, 2014 - Ibuprofen, a common over-the-counter drug used to relieve pain and sold under the brand names of Advil, Motrin and others, could hold the keys to a longer healthier life, according to a study showing that regular doses of ibuprofen extended the lifespan of yeast, worms and fruit flies.

The study was led by researchers at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging in a collaboration with Texas A & M's Agrilife program and published in PLoS Genetics on December 18.

"There is a lot to be excited about," said Brian Kennedy, PhD, CEO of the Buck Institute, who said treatments, given at doses comparable to those used in humans, extended lifespan an average of 15 percent in the model organisms. "Not only did all the species live longer, but the treated flies and worms appeared more healthy," he said.

"The research shows that ibuprofen impacts a process not yet implicated in aging, giving us a new way to study and understand the aging process."

But most importantly, Kennedy said the study opens the door for a new exploration of so-called "anti-aging medicines." "Ibuprofen is a relatively safe drug, found in most people's medicine cabinets," he said. "There is every reason to believe there are other existing treatments that can impact healthspan and we need to be studying them."

Michael Polymenis, PhD, an AgriLife Research biochemist in Texas A & M's Agrilife program started the work in baker's yeast and then moved it into worms and flies.

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Study points to ibuprofen as possible new anti-aging medicine