Editorial

Anti-ageing medicine

The untimely death of a film actress recently while using certain drugs in order to arrest ageing has brought to the fore the fact that a section of people are unnecessarily running

Sentinel Digital Desk

The untimely death of a film actress recently while using certain drugs in order to arrest ageing has brought to the fore the fact that a section of people are unnecessarily running after various cosmetic procedures to remain young. While the exact reason(s) for the death of the film actress is still under investigation, the fact remains that quite a number of people have fallen prey to certain so-called anti-ageing drugs and medicines manufactured and marketed by some companies across the globe. Scientists have always been warning that the use of so-called age-defying and anti-ageing treatments comes with hidden, and sometimes fatal, cardiovascular risks. There is no formal category of anti-ageing drugs approved by any government agency in India. Most such treatments available in the market are off-label, experimental, or cosmetic in nature—and lack proper long-term cardiovascular safety data. The idea of genuinely reversing or preventing ageing with medication is largely unproven and often hyped. It is a fact that some treatments may help manage certain aspects of ageing or age-related conditions, but these too are yet to be scientifically proved. Moreover, many anti-ageing claims are exaggerated, and most such products lack scientific evidence of effectiveness. What is also worth remembering is that the industry manufacturing so-called anti-ageing medicine is largely unregulated, and many products may contain unproven ingredients or have unpredictable side effects. There is concern about misleading marketing and the potential for side effects, especially with injectable treatments and hormone therapies. It is also important to remember that many anti-ageing treatments in clinical trials have not yielded significant positive results. Moreover, some drugs or unregulated herbal supplements may have unpredictable side effects too. There are ethical concerns about the fairness and social justice implications of anti-ageing interventions, particularly regarding access and affordability. Given these circumstances, one must always be cautious of products and treatments making dramatic claims about reversing ageing. Adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial for staying young in both body and mind. This includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, prioritising sleep, managing stress, and staying socially connected. By incorporating these practices, individuals can improve their overall well-being, potentially increase their lifespan, and enjoy a higher quality of life as they age.