AI in neuropsychiatry – now and in the future

Posted on January 17, 2025 by Maurice Preter MD

AI in neuropsychiatry – now and in the future

AI is rapidly transforming the field of neuropsychiatry, offering new opportunities for diagnosis, treatment, and research. Here are some key ways AI is being applied in neuropsychiatry currently and potential future developments:

## Current Applications

### Diagnosis and Screening

AI is being used to improve the early detection and diagnosis of neuropsychiatric disorders[1][2]:

– Machine learning algorithms can analyze brain imaging data, genetic information, and clinical data to identify patterns associated with conditions like depression, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorder.
– Natural language processing tools can analyze speech and text to detect linguistic markers of mental health issues.
– Computer vision systems can assess facial expressions and body language for signs of emotional distress.

### Treatment Planning and Monitoring

AI is enhancing treatment approaches in several ways[1][3]:

– Predictive models help clinicians select optimal medications and therapies for individual patients based on their data.
– AI-powered apps and chatbots provide supplemental support and monitoring between clinical visits.
– Wearable devices with AI algorithms track physiological signals to detect changes in mental state.

### Research and Drug Discovery

In research settings, AI is accelerating the pace of discovery[2]:

– Machine learning models analyze large datasets to uncover new biomarkers and risk factors for neuropsychiatric disorders.
– AI assists in designing and screening potential new drug compounds for mental health conditions.

## Future Potential

Looking ahead, AI may further transform neuropsychiatry in the following ways:

### Advanced Diagnostic Tools

– More sophisticated AI models may enable earlier and more accurate diagnosis of complex conditions like bipolar disorder and dementia.
– Continuous monitoring via smartphones and wearables could allow for real-time assessment of mental state.

### Personalized Treatment

– AI may enable truly personalized treatment plans that adapt in real-time based on a patient’s data and responses.
– Virtual reality therapy guided by AI could provide immersive, tailored interventions.

### Brain-Computer Interfaces

– Direct brain-computer interfaces powered by AI may allow for novel treatments for conditions like depression and PTSD.

### Predictive Prevention

– AI models may be able to identify individuals at high risk for developing mental health issues, enabling early intervention.

While AI holds immense promise, it’s important to note that human clinical expertise remains essential. Ethical considerations around privacy, bias, and the patient-provider relationship must also be carefully navigated as AI becomes more prevalent in neuropsychiatry[1][2].

Citations:
[1] https://ejnpn.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s41983-023-00681-z
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10943939/
[3] https://www.embs.org/pulse/articles/artificial-intelligence-and-the-future-of-psychiatry/
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38799612/
[5] https://dev.to/anastasiia/the-big-promise-ai-holds-for-mental-health-31i3
[6] https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/ai-in-psychiatry-things-are-moving-fast
[7] https://news.cuanschutz.edu/dbmi/whats-the-future-of-ai-in-mental-health-care
[8] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2949916X24000525
[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10852407/

Posted in News |

David Lynch’s “Mulholland Drive” is a cinematic exploration of desire, identity, and the dark underbelly of Hollywood, with eros and sexuality serving as central themes throughout the film.

Posted on January 16, 2025 by Maurice Preter MD

David Lynch’s “Mulholland Drive” is a cinematic exploration of desire, identity, and the dark underbelly of Hollywood, with eros and sexuality serving as central themes throughout the film. The complex narrative structure and surrealist elements create a multifaceted portrayal of sexual desire and its consequences.

## The Duality of Desire

At the heart of “Mulholland Drive” lies the relationship between Betty/Diane (Naomi Watts) and Rita/Camilla (Laura Harring). Their romantic and sexual connection is presented in two distinct ways, reflecting the film’s bifurcated structure[1][2].

**The Dream Sequence**

In the first part of the film, which can be interpreted as Diane’s dream or fantasy, the sexual relationship between Betty and Rita unfolds with a sense of innocence and mutual discovery. Their intimacy is portrayed as tender and passionate, culminating in a love scene that is both erotic and emotionally charged[1]. This idealized version of their relationship represents Diane’s longing for a pure, reciprocated love.

**The Harsh Reality**

The latter part of the film reveals the stark reality of Diane and Camilla’s relationship. Here, sexuality is tinged with jealousy, rejection, and power dynamics. Diane’s desire for Camilla becomes obsessive and destructive, leading to her emotional unraveling[4]. The contrast between the dream and reality sequences highlights the transformative and potentially devastating nature of unfulfilled sexual desire.

## Sexuality as Power and Identity

Lynch uses sexuality as a lens through which to examine power structures in Hollywood and the construction of identity[10].

**The Casting Couch**

The film alludes to the notorious “casting couch” culture of the entertainment industry. Betty’s audition scene, laden with sexual tension, serves as a commentary on the commodification of sexuality in Hollywood[13]. The character’s willingness to perform sexually for career advancement reflects the broader theme of desire’s corrupting influence.

**Identity and Sexual Fluidity**

The shifting identities of the main characters are intrinsically linked to their sexual experiences and desires. The dream sequence allows for a fluid exploration of sexual identity, while the reality portion reveals the constraints and consequences of societal expectations[7].

## The Uncanny and Erotic

Lynch infuses the film with elements of the uncanny that are deeply intertwined with its erotic themes[7].

**Doubling and Desire**

The doubling of characters and situations creates an unsettling eroticism. The similarities between Betty/Diane and Rita/Camilla become a source of both attraction and unease, blurring the lines between self and other in sexual desire[7].

**The Monstrous Aspect of Sexuality**

The film’s more surreal elements, such as the creature behind Winkie’s diner, can be interpreted as manifestations of repressed sexual desires or the monstrous potential of unchecked lust[12]. These elements contribute to the film’s atmosphere of erotic dread.

## Queer Perspectives

“Mulholland Drive” offers a complex portrayal of queer sexuality that resists simple categorization[11].

**Subverting Noir Tropes**

By centering a same-sex relationship, Lynch subverts traditional film noir tropes. The lesbian relationship is not merely coded or hinted at, as in classic noir, but explicitly portrayed[10]. This open depiction challenges heteronormative assumptions in both the noir genre and Hollywood at large.

**The Tragedy of Queer Desire**

While the film presents a vivid portrayal of lesbian desire, it also falls into problematic tropes of queer tragedy. The ultimate fate of Diane/Betty can be seen as reinforcing narratives that link queer sexuality with doom[11]. However, this can also be interpreted as a critique of Hollywood’s treatment of LGBTQ+ characters and stories.

## Conclusion

In “Mulholland Drive,” eros and sexuality serve as both driving forces and destructive elements. Lynch presents desire as a complex, multifaceted phenomenon that shapes identity, power dynamics, and reality itself. The film’s dreamlike quality allows for a fluid exploration of sexual themes, while its noir-inspired elements ground these explorations in a critique of Hollywood’s dark underbelly.

Through its intricate narrative structure and surrealist imagery, “Mulholland Drive” offers a sophisticated meditation on the nature of desire. It suggests that sexuality, in all its forms, is inextricably linked to our sense of self and our perception of reality. The film’s enduring power lies in its ability to unsettle and provoke, leaving viewers to grapple with their own understanding of eros and its place in the human experience.

Citations:
[1] https://lareviewofbooks.org/article/the-malleability-of-mulholland-drive-at-20/
[2] https://the811.net/2021/06/21/mulholland-drive-the-consequences-of-gay-silence/
[3] https://www.mulholland-drive.net/analysis/analysis01.htm
[4] https://btchflcks.com/2014/05/of-phallic-keys-and-ugly-masturbation-lets-talk-about-mulholland-drive.html
[5] https://aperture.byu.edu/?p=489
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/davidlynch/comments/vvs291/interpretations_and_themes_in_mulholland_drive/
[7] https://reframe.sussex.ac.uk/gqc/2012/06/26/queer-uncanny1-mulholland-drive-have-you-done-this-before/
[8] http://www.money-into-light.com/2014/03/mulholland-drive-interpretation-by.html
[9] https://mindlybiz.com/articles/movies/david-lynch/mulholland-drive/
[10] https://film-cred.com/mulholland-drive-film-noir-naomi-watts-laura-harring/
[11] https://afterellen.com/importance-mulholland-drive-sapphic-cinematic-history/
[12] https://religion.ua.edu/blog/2015/06/18/mulholland-drive-extremely-enigmatic-or-surprisingly-simple/
[13] https://www.mulholland-drive.net/analysis/analysis04.htm
[14] https://dokumen.pub/the-strange-world-of-david-lynch-transcendental-irony-from-eroserhead-to-mulholland-dr-9781501340536-9780826428233-9780826428240.html
[15] http://queeringthecloset.blogspot.com/2012/06/queer-review-mulloholand-drive-2001.html
[16] https://www.reddit.com/r/criterion/comments/kpuqoh/on_lynchs_mulholland_drive_is_there_a_fetish_for/
[17] https://archive.internationalpsychoanalysis.net/2010/07/15/a-psychoanalytic-tour-of-mulholland-drive/
[18] https://movies.stackexchange.com/questions/365/what-is-going-on-in-mulholland-drive

Posted in News |

David Lynch’s films are renowned for their surrealist imagery, enigmatic narratives, and psychological depth. A psychoanalytic lens provides valuable insights into the recurring themes and motifs in Lynch’s oeuvre, revealing a cinematic world deeply rooted in Freudian and Lacanian concepts.

Posted on January 16, 2025 by Maurice Preter MD

David Lynch’s films are renowned for their surrealist imagery, enigmatic narratives, and psychological depth. A psychoanalytic lens provides valuable insights into the recurring themes and motifs in Lynch’s oeuvre, revealing a cinematic world deeply rooted in Freudian and Lacanian concepts.

## The Unconscious and Dream Logic

Lynch’s films often blur the line between reality and dreams, mirroring the psychoanalytic emphasis on the unconscious mind. In “Mulholland Drive,” the narrative structure itself can be interpreted as a representation of the protagonist’s psyche, with the first two-thirds of the film potentially representing an elaborate dream or fantasy[3]. This dream-like quality is a hallmark of Lynch’s work, with films like “Lost Highway” and “Inland Empire” also featuring narratives that defy conventional logic and instead operate on what Lynch calls “dream logic”[9].

The director’s use of surreal imagery and non-linear storytelling echoes Freud’s theories on dream interpretation, where seemingly disparate elements are imbued with deeper psychological significance. Lynch’s films often feature symbols and motifs that recur across different scenes and even different movies, inviting viewers to engage in a form of cinematic dream analysis[1].

## Identity and the Fragmented Self

Psychoanalytic theories of identity formation are central to many of Lynch’s narratives. The concept of the fragmented self is particularly evident in films like “Lost Highway” and “Mulholland Drive,” where characters seem to shift identities or exist in parallel realities[3]. This fragmentation can be understood through Lacan’s theory of the mirror stage and the formation of the ego, where the self is always in some sense alienated from itself[3].

In “Inland Empire,” the protagonist’s identity becomes increasingly fractured as the film progresses, blurring the lines between actress and character, reality and performance. This exploration of unstable identities reflects psychoanalytic ideas about the fluidity of the self and the impact of trauma on personality[1].

## Repression and the Return of the Repressed

Freud’s concept of repression and the return of the repressed is a recurring theme in Lynch’s work. In “Blue Velvet,” the idyllic small-town facade gives way to a dark underbelly of violence and perversion, symbolizing the eruption of repressed desires and impulses[4]. The film’s opening sequence, which moves from picturesque suburban imagery to a close-up of swarming insects beneath the surface, visually represents this idea of hidden, repressed content[26].

Similarly, in “Twin Peaks,” the murder of Laura Palmer serves as a catalyst for revealing the town’s hidden secrets and repressed traumas. The series explores how these repressed elements return in distorted, often violent forms, echoing Freud’s theories on the psychological consequences of repression[12].

## The Oedipus Complex and Family Dynamics

Psychoanalytic interpretations of family dynamics, particularly the Oedipus complex, are evident in several of Lynch’s films. In “Blue Velvet,” the protagonist Jeffrey’s relationship with Dorothy Vallens can be seen as an Oedipal drama, with Frank Booth representing a terrifying father figure[13]. The film explores themes of sexual awakening and the blurring of boundaries between desire and fear.

“Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me” delves even deeper into Oedipal themes, with its exploration of incest and family trauma. The character of BOB can be interpreted as a manifestation of repressed familial abuse, representing the return of the repressed in its most terrifying form[12].

## The Uncanny and the Double

Lynch’s films often evoke a sense of the uncanny, a psychoanalytic concept describing the unsettling feeling when the familiar becomes strange. This is particularly evident in his use of doppelgangers and doubles, such as the multiple versions of characters in “Lost Highway” and “Mulholland Drive”[3]. These doubles can be understood through Freud’s concept of the uncanny and Lacan’s ideas about the mirror stage and the formation of identity.

The uncanny is also present in Lynch’s depiction of everyday objects and settings. Ordinary items like telephones, lamps, or curtains often take on an ominous quality in his films, reflecting the psychoanalytic idea that the most profound anxieties are often rooted in the familiar[1].

## Conclusion

David Lynch’s films offer a rich tapestry of psychoanalytic elements, from their exploration of the unconscious and dream logic to their depiction of fragmented identities and repressed desires. By engaging with Freudian and Lacanian concepts, Lynch creates a cinematic world that mirrors the complexities of the human psyche, inviting viewers to explore the darker recesses of their own minds. His unique ability to blend the surreal with the mundane, the beautiful with the horrific, reflects the psychoanalytic understanding of the human condition as inherently conflicted and multifaceted. Through his distinctive visual style and narrative techniques, Lynch continues to create films that not only entertain but also provoke deep psychological reflection, cementing his status as a master of psychologically rich cinema.

Citations:
[1] https://www.sobider.net/FileUpload/ep842424/File/semiotic_psychoanalysis1.pdf
[2] https://melaniemenardarts.wordpress.com/2010/10/06/critical-essays-on-david-lynchs-movies/
[3] https://www.freud.org.uk/2012/08/22/projections-1-david-lynchs-blurred-identity-trilogy/
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Lynch
[5] https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/david-lynch-best-movies-ranked/
[6] https://www.artpublikamag.com/post/2018/07/03/the-surreal-and-suspenseful-filmmaking-style-of-david-lynchs-criminal-thrillers
[7] https://cinej.pitt.edu/ojs/cinej/article/download/58/192
[8] https://www.filmcompanion.in/ampstories/web-stories/recurring-motifs-and-themes-in-the-world-of-david-lynch
[9] https://nofilmschool.com/2015/12/how-do-you-define-lynchian-exploration-david-lynchs-cinematic-style
[10] https://cinej.pitt.edu/ojs/cinej/article/view/58
[11] https://www.freud.org.uk/whats-on/on-demand/conferences/freud-lynch-behind-the-curtain/
[12] https://www.dugpa.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=361
[13] https://www.researchgate.net/publication/351872781_Analysis_on_the_Freudism_in_David_Lynch’s_Film_Blue_Velvet/fulltext/60ae439992851c168e413930/Analysis-on-the-Freudism-in-David-Lynchs-Film-Blue-Velvet.pdf
[14] https://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1385495386
[15] https://bampfa.org/program/next-door-darkness-films-david-lynch
[16] https://www.reddit.com/r/davidlynch/comments/1ccrvi7/whats_special_about_lynch_please_try_to_be_civil/
[17] https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000186/
[18] https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/david_lynch
[19] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Lynch_filmography
[20] https://www.mensjournal.com/entertainment/david-lynch-movies-streaming-twin-peaks-dune
[21] https://ew.com/movies/david-lynch-best-movies-and-tv-shows-ranked/
[22] https://variety.com/2025/film/news/david-lynch-complete-film-collection-box-set-buy-online-1236276206/
[23] https://www.reddit.com/r/davidlynch/comments/1bpbusd/the_curious_case_of_mds_dream_theory/
[24] https://www.mindbodypassport.com/the-female-figure-in-david-lynchs-cinema-freudian-approaches
[25] https://www.imdb.com/list/ls006016285/
[26] https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/what-does-lynchian-mean/

Posted in News, Psychiatry/Neurology | Tagged , , , , |

Depression in retired executives is a complex and multifaceted issue that affects a significant portion of this population.

Posted on January 16, 2025 by Maurice Preter MD

Depression in retired executives is a complex and multifaceted issue that affects a significant portion of this population. As high-achieving individuals transition from their demanding careers to retirement, they often face unique challenges that can contribute to the development of depressive symptoms. This essay will explore the prevalence, causes, and implications of depression among retired executives, as well as potential strategies for prevention and management.

## Prevalence and Risk Factors

Research indicates that depression is more common among retirees than in the general population. A meta-analysis found that the mean prevalence of depression in retirees was 28%, which is substantially higher than the overall older adult population[4]. For executives specifically, the risk may be even greater. Some studies suggest that CEOs and other high-level executives may experience depression at more than double the rate of the general public[25].

Several factors contribute to the elevated risk of depression among retired executives:

1. Loss of Identity: Many executives strongly identify with their professional roles. Retirement can lead to a sense of lost purpose and identity[12].

2. Decreased Social Interaction: The workplace often provides a significant source of social connection. Retirement can result in reduced social networks and increased isolation[14].

3. Lifestyle Changes: The transition from a highly structured work life to an open-ended retirement can be disorienting[1].

4. Financial Concerns: Even for well-compensated executives, concerns about maintaining their lifestyle in retirement can cause stress[14].

5. Health Issues: As individuals age, they may face more health challenges, which can contribute to depressive symptoms[1].

## The Retirement Transition

The process of transitioning into retirement can be particularly challenging for executives. Many experience a phenomenon known as “retirement shock,” where the reality of retirement fails to meet their expectations[15]. This disconnect can lead to feelings of disillusionment and contribute to depressive symptoms.

The retirement transition typically involves several phases:

1. Pre-Retirement Anticipation: As retirement approaches, executives may experience a mix of excitement and anxiety[29].

2. Honeymoon Phase: Immediately after retirement, there’s often a period of relief and enjoyment[18].

3. Disenchantment: As the novelty wears off, some retirees may feel a sense of loss or purposelessness[13].

4. Reorientation: This phase involves adapting to the new reality of retirement and finding new sources of meaning[18].

5. Stability: Eventually, most retirees settle into a new routine and lifestyle[18].

The risk of depression can be particularly high during the disenchantment and reorientation phases.

## Unique Challenges for Executives

Retired executives face some specific challenges that can exacerbate the risk of depression:

1. High-Pressure Mindset: The drive and ambition that fueled their careers can lead to difficulty in accepting a slower pace of life[25].

2. Perfectionism: Many executives have high standards for themselves, which can lead to self-criticism and dissatisfaction in retirement[2].

3. Loss of Power and Influence: The transition from a position of authority to a more ordinary lifestyle can be jarring[12].

4. Workaholic Tendencies: Executives often have difficulty disengaging from work, leading to a sense of emptiness in retirement[23].

## Prevention and Management Strategies

Addressing depression in retired executives requires a multifaceted approach:

1. Pre-Retirement Planning: Executives should be encouraged to plan for the psychological aspects of retirement, not just the financial ones[11].

2. Maintaining Purpose: Finding new goals and activities that provide a sense of purpose is crucial[18].

3. Social Connections: Cultivating relationships outside of work before retirement can help maintain a strong social network[14].

4. Physical Health: Regular exercise and a healthy diet can significantly impact mental well-being[28].

5. Mental Health Support: Destigmatizing mental health issues and encouraging seeking professional help when needed is essential[5].

6. Gradual Transition: Some executives benefit from a phased retirement, allowing for a more gradual adjustment[29].

7. Volunteering and Mentoring: Using their skills to help others can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment[11].

## Implications for Organizations

The high prevalence of depression among retired executives has implications for organizations:

1. Succession Planning: Companies should consider the psychological impact of retirement on departing executives and plan accordingly[20].

2. Retirement Programs: Offering comprehensive retirement preparation programs that address mental health can benefit both the organization and the retiring executive[11].

3. Alumni Networks: Maintaining connections with retired executives through alumni programs can provide ongoing support and engagement[14].

## Conclusion

Depression in retired executives is a significant issue that deserves attention from individuals, organizations, and healthcare providers. By understanding the unique challenges faced by this population and implementing targeted prevention and management strategies, we can help ensure that retirement becomes a fulfilling and enjoyable phase of life for these accomplished individuals. As our understanding of this issue grows, it’s crucial to continue developing and refining approaches to support the mental health of retired executives, ultimately contributing to their well-being and the broader societal benefits of their continued engagement and wisdom.

Citations:
[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9288177/
[2] https://caldaclinic.com/the-truth-about-the-mental-health-of-ceos/
[3] https://academic.oup.com/psychsocgerontology/article/77/1/135/6352411?login=false
[4] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7551681/
[5] https://chiefexecutive.net/when-ceo-depression-and-anxiety-trickle-down-into-a-company/
[6] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8679838/
[7] https://www.benefitspro.com/2024/07/09/55-of-ceos-said-they-had-a-mental-health-issue-within-the-past-year/
[8] https://www.psychiatryadvisor.com/news/risk-for-depression-increases-with-later-retirement-age/
[9] https://www.transformativeconversations.com/blog/executive-mental-health/2018/5/6
[10] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10227535/
[11] https://www.apa.org/monitor/2014/01/retiring-minds
[12] https://hbr.org/2014/02/the-dark-side-of-retirement
[13] https://retirees.uw.edu/resources/retirement-transitions/the-retirement-process-a-psychological-and-emotional-journey/
[14] https://www.53.com/content/fifth-third/en/personal-banking/planning/retirement-university/retirement-risk-of-depression.html
[15] https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/06/16/breaking-the-stigma-addressing-mental-health-in-the-c-suite/
[16] https://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/emotional-shock-retirement
[17] https://www.americanbar.org/groups/senior_lawyers/resources/voice-of-experience/2024-august/the-psychological-challenges-of-retirement/
[18] https://www.helpguide.org/aging/healthy-aging/adjusting-to-retirement
[19] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9288177/
[20] https://www.imd.org/ibyimd/leadership/ceos-need-to-manage-their-own-mental-health-in-times-of-crisis/
[21] https://wellbeingindex.sharecare.com/us-managers-have-low-rates-depression/
[22] https://www.benefitspro.com/2024/07/09/55-of-ceos-said-they-had-a-mental-health-issue-within-the-past-year/
[23] https://caldaclinic.com/the-truth-about-the-mental-health-of-ceos/
[24] https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/retirement-impacts-mental-health-of-blue-collar-women-more-than-white-collar-peers/
[25] https://www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2015/01/26/why-the-super-successful-get-depressed/
[26] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30080797/
[27] https://www.nber.org/system/files/working_papers/w12123/w12123.pdf
[28] https://www.healthline.com/health/senior-health/retirement-depression
[29] https://academic.oup.com/psychsocgerontology/article/75/2/403/5445297
[30] https://execsintheknow.com/magazines/july-2024/why-supporting-the-mental-well-being/

Posted in Aging, Fifth Avenue Concierge Medicine, Health, Psychiatry/Neurology | Tagged , , |

Bryan Johnson, the 47-year-old tech entrepreneur known for his extreme anti-aging efforts, has recently discontinued his use of rapamycin, a drug he had been taking for nearly five years as part of his longevity regimen[2][8]. This decision has sparked renewed discussion about the potential risks and benefits of using drugs like rapamycin for anti-aging purposes.

Posted on January 16, 2025 by Maurice Preter MD

Bryan Johnson, the 47-year-old tech entrepreneur known for his extreme anti-aging efforts, has recently discontinued his use of rapamycin, a drug he had been taking for nearly five years as part of his longevity regimen. This decision has sparked renewed discussion about the potential risks and benefits of using drugs like rapamycin for anti-aging purposes.

## Rapamycin and Longevity

Rapamycin, also known as sirolimus, is an immunosuppressant drug typically prescribed to organ transplant patients to prevent rejection. However, it has gained attention in the longevity community due to its potential anti-aging properties:

– Studies have shown that rapamycin can extend lifespan in various organisms, including mice[2].
– It is believed to work by inhibiting the mTOR pathway, which plays a key role in aging and age-related diseases[2].
– Some researchers and longevity enthusiasts have been exploring its off-label use for anti-aging purposes[2].

## Johnson’s Rapamycin Protocol and Decision to Discontinue

Bryan Johnson had been taking rapamycin as part of what he described as the “most aggressive rapamycin protocol of anyone in the industry”[1]. His regimen included:

– Biweekly doses of 13 milligrams[1][4]
– Various other protocols, including weekly and alternating weekly schedules[4]

However, after nearly five years of use, Johnson decided to stop taking rapamycin in September 2024[1][3]. He cited several reasons for this decision:

1. Side effects: Johnson experienced occasional skin and soft tissue infections, abnormal fat levels in his blood, elevated blood sugar, and a higher resting heart rate[1][4].
2. Limited benefits: The potential benefits did not justify the “hefty side effects” in his assessment[1][4].
3. New research: A pre-print study suggested that rapamycin might actually accelerate aging in humans across 16 epigenetic aging clocks[10].

## Risks and Side Effects of Rapamycin

While rapamycin has shown promise in longevity research, it comes with potential risks and side effects:

1. Immunosuppression: As an immunosuppressant, rapamycin can potentially increase susceptibility to infections[2][9].
2. Metabolic effects: It may cause hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and insulin resistance[2].
3. Other side effects: These can include mouth sores, anemia, fatigue, constipation, diarrhea, and high blood pressure[2].
4. More serious risks: In rare cases, it may lead to blood clots, stroke, or pulmonary embolism[2].

Dr. Oliver Zolman, a longevity specialist who works with Johnson, noted that the drug could cause severe bacterial infections, including pneumonia, cellulitis, and pharyngitis[4][9].

## The Debate on Rapamycin for Longevity

Johnson’s decision to discontinue rapamycin highlights the ongoing debate in the longevity community:

– Proponents argue that the potential life-extending benefits outweigh the risks, especially at lower doses used for anti-aging purposes[2].
– Critics caution against using drugs off-label without sufficient long-term human studies[2].
– Some researchers suggest that the optimal use of rapamycin for longevity may require individualized, disease-oriented dosing[2].

Recent studies have yielded mixed results. A study conducted by Ageless, an online pharmacy offering low-dose rapamycin for longevity, involved more than 100 participants taking either rapamycin or a placebo weekly for nearly a year. The study revealed no significant differences in physical benefits or adverse effects between the groups, although individuals on rapamycin reported a general sense of improved health[2].

## Implications for Anti-Aging Research

Johnson’s experience with rapamycin underscores the complexities and potential risks associated with using pharmaceuticals for anti-aging purposes. While rapamycin continues to be a subject of interest in longevity research, its use outside of approved medical indications remains controversial.

The case also highlights the challenges of conducting long-term longevity studies in humans. Instead, researchers are initiating new clinical trials to assess how rapamycin influences age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s and various biological aging markers[2].

## Johnson’s Ongoing Anti-Aging Efforts

Despite discontinuing rapamycin, Johnson remains committed to his anti-aging regimen, known as “Project Blueprint”[3]. This includes:

– Spending $2 million annually on medical diagnostics and treatments[1]
– A meticulously crafted regimen of eating, sleeping, and exercising[1]
– Exploring other experimental treatments, such as total plasma exchange[1][4]

Johnson’s approach has raised eyebrows among experts, many of whom caution against the unproven efficacy of such treatments and the risks they may entail[3].

## Conclusion

Bryan Johnson’s decision to stop taking rapamycin serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in anti-aging research and the potential risks associated with off-label use of medications. While the pursuit of longevity continues to captivate researchers and enthusiasts alike, this case underscores the importance of rigorous scientific study and careful consideration of potential side effects. As the field of anti-aging medicine evolves, it’s clear that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and optimal use of drugs like rapamycin in humans.

Citations:
[1] https://www.ndtv.com/feature/anti-ageing-influencer-bryan-johnson-ditches-longevity-medicine-over-health-concerns-7440729
[2] https://www.nytimes.com/2024/09/24/well/live/rapamycin-aging-longevity-benefits-risks.html
[3] https://thebrewnews.com/thebrew-news/bryan-johnson-rapamycin/
[4] https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/trends/bryan-johnson-who-has-over-50-pills-a-day-ditches-use-of-longevity-drug-over-side-effects-12908096.html
[5] https://www.numenor.health/blog/the-rapamycin-problem
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qB__cLL0zX4
[7] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/bryan-johnson-discontinues-longevity-drug-after-concerns-it-may-have-accelerated-aging/articleshow/117125430.cms
[8] https://www.mensfitness.com/news/bryan-johnson-stops-taking-rapamycin
[9] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/global-trends/age-reversing-millionaire-bryan-johnson-who-gulps-down-54-pills-for-breakfast-ditches-longevity-drug-rapamycin-health/articleshow/117120535.cms
[10] https://gizmodo.com/longevity-obsessed-tech-millionaire-discontinues-de-aging-drug-out-of-concerns-that-it-aged-him-2000549377
[11] https://www.yahoo.com/news/tech-mogul-anti-aging-drug-133641103.html
[12] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6814615/
[13] https://nypost.com/2025/01/09/health/anti-aging-guru-bryan-johnson-ditches-controversial-drug-after-infections/

Posted in Aging, Fifth Avenue Concierge Medicine, Health, News, Psychiatry/Neurology | Tagged , , , , , |