Vitamins, minerals, and antiaging drugs in older adults

With improvements in science, technology and living conditions, life expectancy has increased over the years. Thus, age-related diseases are increasing worldwide in both developed and developing countries. The concept of antiaging involves increasing quality of life and average life expectancy by preventing age-related diseases via lifestyle changes, preventive medicine practices, education and hygiene, and modern and alternative medicine drugs and methods. Physicians should be knowledgeable of antiaging approaches and treatments and follow the literature to answer patient questions. Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, calorie restriction mimetics, hormones, telomerase activators, microRNA, stem cells, and many other molecules are used for antiaging; however, there is no drug or supplement approved for use in this regard. Evidence-based proof of antiaging drugs or supplements is insufficient and safety data are unknown. More randomized controlled studies are needed.