65. Old Drugs, New Uses: Exploring Repurposed Medications in Health and Longevity

Dr. Elizabeth Yurth, MD, is the Chief Medical Officer of Boulder Longevity Institute, specializing in advanced human optimization medicine, including regenerative therapies and health optimization. A double-board-certified orthopedist with over 27 years of experience, she holds multiple fellowships in regenerative and cellular medicine. Dr. Yurth lectures nationally, consults with elite athletes, and produces educational content through BLI’s Human Optimization Academy. She has over 600 hours of continuing medical education in longevity and regenerative medicine. Passionate about cutting-edge treatments, she integrates her expertise with personal insights as an athlete and mother to inspire and educate her clients worldwide.

This conversation has Dr. Yurth introducing us to the potential of repurposed drugs, such as pentosan polysulfate and low-dose naltrexone, highlighting their roles in reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system. She also talks about the benefits of repurposing drugs in general, including the fact that they have already achieved FDA clearance, which makes them ready to use in new applications immediately. Dr. Yurth continues on to explain innovative applications of medications like telmisartan and methylene blue, showing their benefits for metabolic health, neuroprotection, and overall well-being. We also hear what Dr. Yurth’s personal favorite longevity drug is and why.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• How Dr. Yurth transitioned from traditional orthopedics to holistic and longevity medicine.

• Why joint health should be viewed as part of an inflammatory disease process.

• How regenerative orthopedics can reduce heavy reliance on surgical solutions.

• The potential of repurposing FDA-approved drugs for new medical applications.

• How pentosan polysulfate offers anti-inflammatory and tissue-regenerative benefits.

• Why communication with patients about drug risks is always necessary.

• Pentosan polysulfate, low-dose naltrexone, and their impact on cardiovascular health and autoimmune conditions.

• Why low-dose naltrexone is effective for chronic pain and autoimmunity.

• How telmisartan supports metabolic health and neuroprotection.

• Why methylene blue can provide benefits to energy production and mental health.

• The evolving landscape of medicine with drugs like amlexanox and metformin alternatives.

• How amlexanox reduces inflammation and supports weight management.

• Why telmisartan is underappreciated for its longevity and metabolic benefits.

• How aspirin and methylene blue support endothelial health and energy production.

• What Dr. Yurth offers through Human Optimization Academy.

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Boulder Longevity Institute: https://boulderlongevity.com/

Human Optimization Academy: https://bli.academy/

Dr. Yurth on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dryurth/

Boulder Longevity Institute on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boulderlongevityinstitute/