Drugs and supplements can extend life and five other longevity myths
Scientists are debunking six common myths regarding longevity, noting that no current drugs or supplements have been proven to extend human life. Research suggests that the focus should shift from life extension to improving 'health span' and addressing the specific health needs of aging populations.
Why it matters
As interest in longevity grows, this analysis helps consumers distinguish between scientifically backed health practices and unproven, potentially harmful trends.
Six popular claims about living longer don’t hold up, according to the scientists who study aging, as The New York Times’ Melinda Wenner Moyer reports. With longevity-related web searches quadrupling in a year, the debunking is overdue. “A lot is circulating in this space that is not science-based, and it’s really important to dispel some of that,” said Dr. Sofiya Milman, a professor of human longevity studies at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine’s Institute for Aging Research.
Myth 1: Drugs and supplements can extend life. No pill, peptide or powder has been shown to. A 2026 study found blood NAD+ levels stay stable in old age, so supplementing likely does nothing, and human growth hormone can raise the risk of joint pain, swelling and carpal tunnel syndrome in healthy older adults.
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