Shefali Jariwala’s Sudden Death Sparks Debate: How Do Anti-Ageing Drugs Work and What Are Their Side Effects?

.

.

.

The entertainment industry and millions of fans across India were left reeling on June 28, 2025, after the shocking news of Shefali Jariwala’s untimely demise at just 42. Known for her electrifying performance in the “Kaanta Laga” music video and her memorable stint on Bigg Boss 13, Shefali was a vibrant, energetic personality who inspired many. Her sudden death, reportedly due to cardiac arrest, has not only devastated her loved ones but also sparked a broader conversation about health, wellness, and the increasing use of anti-ageing drugs among celebrities and the general public.

The Allure of Anti-Ageing Drugs

In the world of glitz and glamour, the pressure to look youthful is immense. In recent years, anti-ageing drugs and supplements have surged in popularity, promising everything from wrinkle reduction to increased energy and even extended lifespan. But what exactly are these drugs, how do they work, and what risks do they carry?

Anti-ageing drugs encompass a wide variety of substances, from prescription medications to over-the-counter supplements. Among the most talked-about are metformin, rapamycin, NAD+ boosters (like nicotinamide riboside), and growth hormone therapies. These compounds are often marketed as “longevity elixirs,” claiming to slow or even reverse the ageing process at a cellular level.

How Do They Work?

Most anti-ageing drugs target fundamental biological processes associated with ageing:

Cellular Repair: Some drugs, like NAD+ boosters, enhance the body’s natural ability to repair DNA and maintain cellular health.
Metabolic Regulation: Medications such as metformin, originally developed for diabetes, are believed to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation, both linked to ageing.
Protein Synthesis and Autophagy: Rapamycin, an immunosuppressant, is thought to promote autophagy—a process where cells clean out damaged components, potentially delaying age-related decline.
Hormonal Balance: Growth hormone therapies aim to restore declining hormone levels, supporting muscle mass, skin elasticity, and energy.

The Hidden Dangers: Side Effects and Risks

While the promise of eternal youth is enticing, the reality is far more complicated. Medical experts warn that anti-ageing drugs are not without side effects, and their long-term safety remains largely unproven.

Cardiovascular Risks: Some anti-ageing drugs can affect heart function. For instance, growth hormone therapy has been linked to increased risk of hypertension and heart disease.
Cancer Concerns: By stimulating cell growth, certain therapies may inadvertently encourage the development of cancerous cells.
Metabolic Disturbances: Drugs like metformin can cause gastrointestinal issues, vitamin B12 deficiency, and, in rare cases, lactic acidosis—a potentially fatal condition.
Immune Suppression: Rapamycin, while promising in animal studies, suppresses the immune system, raising the risk of infections.
Unknown Interactions: Many anti-ageing supplements are poorly regulated, and their interactions with other medications are not fully understood.

A Cautionary Tale

Although there is no official confirmation linking Shefali Jariwala’s death to the use of anti-ageing drugs, her sudden passing has reignited concerns about the lengths to which individuals may go in pursuit of youthfulness. Experts urge caution, emphasizing that lifestyle factors—such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding smoking—remain the most reliable ways to promote healthy ageing.

Dr. Priya Malhotra, a leading geriatrician in Mumbai, advises, “The science of anti-ageing is still in its infancy. While some drugs show promise in laboratory settings, we do not have enough evidence to recommend them for widespread use. The risks often outweigh the unproven benefits.”

In Memory and Moving Forward

As fans mourn the loss of a beloved star, Shefali Jariwala’s story serves as a poignant reminder to prioritize health over fleeting beauty trends. The allure of anti-ageing drugs will likely persist, but their true cost—both physically and emotionally—remains uncertain. In the end, the search for youth may be less about magic pills and more about embracing life’s natural rhythms with grace and wisdom.