Diabetes drug increases lifespan of male mice, shows smaller effect in females

Researchers gave the diabetes drug acarbose to mice in their food and compared them with mice that did not receive it. The male mice lived longer than untreated males. Female mice also showed a possible benefit, but it was much smaller. No people took part in this study, so the results do not directly apply to humans.

What this means for you: This is not a reason to take or buy acarbose for longer life. It is an early finding in mice, and human studies are needed to know whether the drug helps people live longer.