A new study reveals that the common pain reliever, ibuprofen, the main ingredient in Advil or Motrin, significantly prolonged the lives of multiple species. Could the same be true for humans? Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to reduce pain, fever, and inflammation. A study from Texas A&M University and Buck Institute for Research on Aging demonstrated that regular doses of ibuprofen resulted in a healthier and longer life in yeast, flies and worms. The exact mechanism of how ibuprofen leads to longevity in model animals remains uncertain, but it is known that ibuprofen affects the cells ability to absorb tryptophan, an amino acid in proteins. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid found in a person’s diet.
This research could provide clues to the mechanisms of the aging process. Lacking human research, ibuprofen is not recommended daily despite these findings. At the UF Pain and Fatigue Research Center, we currently are studying the mechanisms of chronic pain and fatigue. For more information on our current studies please call us at 352-265-8901 or email us at painresearch@medicine.ufl.edu.