AN ALREADY existent pill could make women fertile for an extra five years and help them live longer, scientists say. Scientists from Columbia University said early findings from their drug trials were like "a dream come true". The study tested whether the immunosuppressant rapamycin could help slow ovary ageing, thus delaying menopause and extending fertility.
Researchers also sought to measure whether the drug could slash the risk of age-related diseases. At present, 34 women aged up to 35 have participated in the research, known as The Validating Benefits of Rapamycin for Reproductive Aging Treatment (Vibrant) study. Researchers hope more than 1,000 women will go on to join.
Yousin Suh, a professor of reproductive sciences, genetics and development at Columbia University who co-lead the study, said rapamycin could slow ovary ageing by 20 per cent without causing side effects. The drug can bring on up to 44 side effects, from mild nausea and headaches to high blood pressure and infections. But study participants reported having better memory and energy levels and said the quality of their skin and hair had improved, as per The Guardian .
Prof Suh said: “The results of this study – the first in human history – are very, very exciting. Most read in Health "It means that those with age-related fertility problems now have hope when before, they didn’t.” “These early results mean we now have a clear shot at our ultimate goal: using rapamycin to extend the lifespan of .