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Taking a new drug can delay old age
Last reviewed: 02.07.2025
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It has long been proven that moderation in caloric intake helps slow down the development of age-related processes. However, experts do not recommend using fasting to slow down aging - this can be dangerous to human health.
A new study has shown that prolonged moderate food consumption significantly prolongs life.
The experiment had a sequel: specialists from the University of Colorado discovered that systematic use of the drug Nicotinamide ribosin helps to simulate the process of starvation and slow down age-related changes in the heart and blood vessels.
According to scientists, the new anti-aging agent also effectively fights high blood pressure and helps maintain the elasticity of the vascular system.
"This is the only experiment so far that has fully explored Nicotinamide ribosin and its effect in the long term. The drug is well tolerated and includes the same biological mechanisms in the body as moderation in calories," explains Dr. Doug Seals.
Testing was conducted on 24 volunteers, whose average age ranged from 55 to 79 years. All participants were healthy and had no weight problems.
One part of the volunteers received a placebo for one and a half months, after which they were given Nicotinamide riboside chloride - 500 mg in the morning and evening. The second part of the participants, on the contrary, was first given Nicotinamide, and then transferred to a placebo. As a result, it was discovered that the drug actually stopped the processes of cellular aging.
"The point is that treatment with the new drug causes the restoration of what is lost with age, and also activates enzymes responsible for anti-stress protection," the scientists say.
It was found that in more than ten participants suffering from high blood pressure, systolic pressure readings decreased by about 10 mm while taking the drug. This effect is equivalent to reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases by a quarter.
A large clinical trial of Nicotinamide riboside will be announced soon. There is a high probability that the drug will be used in the future as a powerful preventive anti-aging agent.
"It is noteworthy that such an imitation of a decrease in the caloric content of the diet can become an excellent alternative to dietary nutrition, which is recommended for patients suffering from excess weight and hypertension. A diet without a diet - this is what our drug can provide," the experts are sure.
To date, permission has already been received to conduct a new trial. In addition, scientists plan to test Nicotinamide riboside on patients with minor cognitive impairment. The research project is funded by the US National Institute of Health and the National Federation for the Study of Aging.
Information about the study is presented on the pages of the periodical Nature Communications.
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