The Dasatinib Quercetin Protocol is a senolytic therapy combining 100mg Dasatinib and 1000-1250mg Quercetin taken orally for 2-3 consecutive days, repeated intermittently every 2-4 weeks. This combination targets senescent cells—aged cells that accumulate and drive inflammation. Clinical trials use this protocol to study effects on age-related cognitive decline, metabolic function, and physical performance.
💡 What You Need to Know Right Away
- D+Q reduced senescent cells by 35% in adipose tissue within 14 days in diabetic kidney disease patients[Evidence: B][1]
- Cognitive function improved by +1.0 MoCA points (and +2.0 in lowest scorers) over 12 weeks in Alzheimer's risk patients[Evidence: B][4]
- Metabolic improvements include better glucose tolerance and reduced inflammation markers (IL-6, TNF-α) in aged mice[Evidence: C][6]
- Joint health benefits: D+Q restored cartilage phenotype and released pro-anabolic mediators in osteoarthritic chondrocytes[Evidence: C][7]
It is common to feel overwhelmed when first researching senolytic protocols. The science is complex, and studies sometimes contradict each other. You may have heard promises about "reversing aging" or clearing "zombie cells"—but separating fact from hype requires careful analysis.
This guide synthesizes findings from 13 peer-reviewed studies published between 2019 and 2025 to give you a clear, evidence-based understanding of what the Dasatinib Quercetin (D+Q) protocol can and cannot do. You will learn how it works, what clinical trials show, the specific dosing protocols used, and critical safety information—including recent studies raising important concerns.
Whether you are exploring senolytics for longevity optimization or managing age-related conditions under medical supervision, this guide provides the scientific foundation you need to make informed decisions.
❓ Quick Answers
What is the Dasatinib Quercetin protocol?
The Dasatinib Quercetin protocol combines two compounds—Dasatinib (a tyrosine kinase inhibitor) and Quercetin (a plant flavonoid)—to selectively eliminate senescent cells. Clinical trials typically use 100mg Dasatinib plus 1000-1250mg Quercetin for 2-3 consecutive days, repeated every 2-4 weeks. This "hit-and-run" approach aims to clear damaged cells while minimizing drug exposure.[Evidence: B][1]
How does Dasatinib Quercetin work?
Dasatinib inhibits Src family kinases, while Quercetin blocks Bcl-xL—both are anti-apoptotic proteins that help senescent cells resist death. Together, they disable the "survival shields" protecting aged cells, allowing them to undergo apoptosis (programmed cell death). This reduces SASP (senescence-associated secretory phenotype) inflammatory factors like IL-6 and TNF-α.[Evidence: C][6]
What are the benefits of Dasatinib Quercetin?
Studies suggest D+Q may reduce senescent cell burden by 35% in adipose tissue[1], improve cognitive scores (+1.0 MoCA points)[4], ameliorate disc degeneration[9], and improve metabolic function including glucose tolerance[6]. Benefits appear tissue-specific and context-dependent.[Evidence: B]
What is the recommended Dasatinib Quercetin dosage?
Clinical trials use Dasatinib 100mg plus Quercetin 1000-1250mg daily. Duration varies: 3 consecutive days (single course)[1], 3 days per week for 3 weeks[2], or 2 days every 2 weeks for 12 weeks[4]. Dasatinib requires a prescription. Consult a physician before starting.[Evidence: B]
Is Dasatinib Quercetin safe?
Clinical trials report D+Q is generally well-tolerated for short-term intermittent use, with no serious adverse events in pilot studies[1][4]. However, Dasatinib can cause serious side effects at higher doses. Recent preclinical studies show potential concerns including chromatin changes in young cells[13] and worsened outcomes in liver disease models[12].[Evidence: B]
What are the side effects of Dasatinib Quercetin?
In IPF trials, sleep disturbances and anxiety were more frequent in the treatment arm[2]. No treatment discontinuations occurred due to adverse events. Dasatinib at cancer treatment doses can cause bleeding, fluid retention, and QT prolongation—but senolytic protocols use much lower cumulative exposure. Monitor for unusual symptoms.[Evidence: B]
How long does Dasatinib Quercetin take to work?
Pharmacokinetically, compounds are active within hours (Dasatinib half-life ~4 hours). Cellular effects—senescent cell elimination—occur over days to weeks. The diabetic kidney disease trial showed 35% senescent cell reduction by day 14[1]. Measurable clinical outcomes (cognitive, metabolic) appeared by 12 weeks in the Alzheimer's risk trial[4].[Evidence: B]
🔬 How Do Dasatinib and Quercetin Work?
Senescent cells accumulate in tissues as we age. Unlike normal cells that divide or die when damaged, senescent cells enter a "zombie state"—they stop dividing but refuse to die. Worse, they actively harm surrounding tissue by secreting inflammatory molecules known as SASP (senescence-associated secretory phenotype).
Think of senescent cells as rowdy tenants who refuse to leave. They not only occupy space but throw garbage (inflammatory factors) into neighboring apartments, damaging the whole building. Senolytics like D+Q serve as eviction specialists—they don't harm good tenants (healthy cells) but remove the problematic ones that are disrupting the neighborhood.
Dasatinib: Blocking the Survival Switch
Dasatinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor originally developed for leukemia treatment. It blocks Src family kinases—enzymes that help senescent cells resist apoptosis (programmed cell death). By inhibiting these pathways, Dasatinib removes one of the "shields" protecting senescent cells from the body's normal cleanup processes.[Evidence: D][8]
Quercetin: Disabling the Anti-Death Protein
Quercetin, a flavonoid found in many plants, inhibits Bcl-xL—a protein that prevents cell death in senescent cells. Imagine Bcl-xL as a lock on the "self-destruct" button. Quercetin helps unlock this button, allowing senescent cells to finally complete their programmed death cycle. In osteoarthritic cartilage, D+Q selectively eliminated senescent cells and restored healthy chondrocyte function, increasing production of COL2A1, ACAN, and SOX9[Evidence: C][7].
The Synergistic Effect
Neither compound alone achieves the same effect as the combination. Together, they target multiple anti-apoptotic pathways simultaneously. Studies in aged mice demonstrate D+Q reduces inflammatory markers IL-6 and TNF-α in adipose tissue while improving glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity[Evidence: C][6]. In the intestine, D+Q reduced senescent cell burden and modulated beneficial gut microbiota signatures[Evidence: C][10].
Long-term studies show D+Q can ameliorate age-dependent intervertebral disc degeneration, reducing markers p16INK4a, p19ARF, IL-6, and MMP13 when treatment began at 6 or 14 months of age in mice[Evidence: C][9].
📊 Dosage and How to Use
Different clinical trials have used varying dosing protocols based on their specific research goals and patient populations. The table below summarizes the main approaches used in peer-reviewed human studies.
| Study/Purpose | Dasatinib | Quercetin | Schedule | Duration | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diabetic Kidney Disease (Hickson 2019) | 100 mg/day | 1000 mg/day | 3 consecutive days | Single course | [B][1] |
| Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (Nambiar 2023) | 100 mg/day | 1250 mg/day | 3 days/week | 3 weeks | [B][2] |
| Alzheimer's Risk (Millar 2025) | 100 mg | 1250 mg | 2 days every 2 weeks | 12 weeks | [B][4] |
Why "Hit-and-Run" Dosing?
Senolytics use intermittent dosing rather than daily treatment because senescent cells do not regenerate quickly. Once cleared, the body does not immediately replace them. Short bursts of treatment followed by rest periods achieve senolytic effects while minimizing total drug exposure. The 6-month primate study confirmed this approach maintains efficacy with improved safety margins[Evidence: C][5].
Important Considerations
- Dasatinib requires a prescription—it is an FDA-approved cancer medication being used off-label for senolytic purposes
- Quercetin is available over-the-counter as a dietary supplement
- Medical supervision is essential due to potential drug interactions and the need for monitoring
- Protocols vary—there is no single "standard" regimen; researchers continue optimizing schedules
⚠️ Risks, Side Effects, and Warnings
Clinical Trial Safety Data
In the diabetic kidney disease pilot (N=9), D+Q was well-tolerated with no serious adverse events reported[Evidence: B][1]. The IPF trial (N=12) reported excellent adherence with no treatment discontinuations due to adverse events, though sleep disturbances and anxiety occurred more frequently in the treatment group[Evidence: B][2]. The Alzheimer's risk pilot (N=12 completers) also reported no serious adverse events related to the intervention[Evidence: B][4].
Recent Safety Concerns
Liver Disease Context: A 2021 study found D+Q mildly exacerbated liver disease progression in mice with obesity- and age-dependent NAFLD. The compounds showed no senescent cell removal effect in this model and slightly increased histological damage[Evidence: C][12]. Individuals with fatty liver disease should exercise particular caution.
Chromatin Effects: A 2025 study demonstrated D+Q impacts chromatin structure in both senescent and young vascular smooth muscle cells. While effects in young cells were temporary (reversing within 24 hours), this finding suggests D+Q is not perfectly selective for senescent cells[Evidence: C][13].
Drug Interactions
Dasatinib is metabolized by CYP3A4. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole, itraconazole, grapefruit juice) may increase dasatinib levels. CYP3A4 inducers (rifampin, phenytoin) may decrease effectiveness. Quercetin may affect the metabolism of various medications. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications before starting this protocol.
Who Should NOT Take D+Q
- Individuals with active bleeding or bleeding disorders
- Those taking anticoagulants (warfarin, heparin, DOACs) without medical supervision
- Patients with severe heart failure or QT prolongation
- Anyone with active liver disease or NAFLD (based on preclinical concerns)
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women (no safety data)
- Anyone unable to access physician monitoring
🥗 Practical Ways to Use the D+Q Protocol
How to Use This in Your Daily Life
Scenario 1: General Senolytic Protocol (Based on Diabetic Kidney Disease Trial)
- Dose: 100mg Dasatinib + 1000mg Quercetin daily[1]
- Duration: 3 consecutive days[1]
- Population: Adults with physician supervision
- Timing: With meals to improve absorption
- What to track: Any adverse reactions, energy levels, inflammatory symptoms
- Expected results: Senescent cell reduction measurable by day 14[1]
Scenario 2: Extended Protocol (Based on Alzheimer's Risk Trial)
- Dose: 100mg Dasatinib + 1250mg Quercetin[4]
- Duration: 2 days every 2 weeks for 12 weeks (6 treatment cycles)[4]
- Population: Older adults at cognitive risk
- Timing: Same 2 consecutive days every 2 weeks
- What to track: Cognitive function, mobility, inflammatory markers
- Expected results: Cognitive score improvements (+1.0 MoCA points average)[4]
Practical Integration
Take capsules with a meal containing some fat to improve quercetin absorption. Dasatinib can be taken with or without food. Mark treatment days on your calendar to maintain consistency. Store both compounds in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Taking D+Q daily for extended periods: Clinical trials use intermittent dosing for good reason—continuous exposure increases risk without additional benefit.
- Skipping physician consultation: Dasatinib is a prescription medication with real risks; self-experimentation without monitoring is inadvisable.
- Expecting immediate dramatic results: Senolytic effects occur over weeks to months. This is not a single-dose solution.
- Ignoring contraindications: Those with liver disease, bleeding disorders, or taking certain medications should not use this protocol without explicit medical guidance.
⚖️ Dasatinib + Quercetin vs. Other Senolytics
D+Q is not the only senolytic approach. Other compounds under investigation include Fisetin, Navitoclax, and various natural compounds. Understanding the differences helps inform your decision.
| Feature | D+Q | Fisetin | Navitoclax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Human Clinical Trials | Yes (pilot studies) | Yes (ongoing) | Limited (cancer context) |
| Prescription Required | Yes (Dasatinib) | No | Yes |
| Mechanism | Src kinase + Bcl-xL inhibition | Bcl-2 family inhibition | Bcl-2/Bcl-xL inhibition |
| Accessibility | Moderate (requires prescription) | High (OTC supplement) | Low (investigational) |
| Key Evidence | 35% senescent cell reduction[1] | Preclinical; trials ongoing | Cancer studies primarily |
D+Q vs. Fisetin
Fisetin is a plant flavonoid (like Quercetin) that can be purchased without prescription. Some researchers suggest Fisetin may serve as a standalone senolytic. However, head-to-head comparison data in humans is limited. A study noted sex- and genotype-specific differences in response to D+Q versus Fisetin, suggesting personalized approaches may be necessary[Evidence: D][11].
The 6-month primate study provides the longest-duration D+Q data in a model close to humans, demonstrating safety and reduced senescence markers[Evidence: C][5]. Comparable long-term Fisetin data is still emerging.
Choosing Between Options
If you can access physician supervision and prescription: D+Q has the most human pilot trial data. If you prefer an OTC-only approach: Fisetin is being studied but has less clinical evidence. Natural compounds like EGCG and curcumin have senolytic properties but require much more research before firm recommendations can be made.
What The Evidence Shows (And Doesn't Show)
What Research Suggests
- Intermittent D+Q treatment (100mg D + 1000-1250mg Q for 2-3 days) is feasible and well-tolerated in pilot human studies (3 RCTs/pilot studies, total N≈33)[Evidence: B][1][2][4]
- Senescent cell markers (p16INK4A) can be reduced by 35% in adipose tissue within 14 days[Evidence: B][1]
- Cognitive function improvements (+1.0 MoCA points; +2.0 in lowest scorers) correlate inversely with TNF-α changes (r=-0.65, p=0.02)[Evidence: B][4]
- Metabolic and inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α) improve in aged animal models[Evidence: C][6]
- Tissue-specific benefits observed in cartilage, intervertebral discs, adipose tissue, and intestine[Evidence: C][7][9][10]
What's NOT Yet Proven
- Optimal dosing: Studies used varying quercetin doses (1000-1250mg) and schedules—no consensus on best protocol
- Long-term safety beyond 12 weeks in humans: Primate data extends to 6 months[5] but human long-term data is absent
- Effects in healthy individuals: All human trials involved patients with existing conditions (diabetic kidney disease, IPF, Alzheimer's risk); healthy longevity-seeking adults not directly studied
- Sex-specific response: Evidence suggests males and females may respond differently, but human data is limited
- Cardiovascular outcomes: Review data exists[11] but no human trials specifically for heart disease
Where Caution Is Needed
- Liver disease: D+Q worsened progression in NAFLD/HCC mouse model—avoid in patients with fatty liver disease[Evidence: C][12]
- Non-selective effects: D+Q causes chromatin changes in young (non-senescent) cells, though effects reversed after 24 hours[Evidence: C][13]
- Drug interactions: Dasatinib CYP3A4 metabolism creates potential interactions with many common medications
- Quality variance: Quercetin supplements vary significantly in bioavailability and purity
Should YOU Try This?
Best suited for: Individuals over 50 with age-related conditions (metabolic dysfunction, cognitive concerns, joint issues) who have access to physician supervision and can commit to monitoring protocols.
Not recommended for: Those with liver disease, bleeding disorders, or taking anticoagulants; pregnant/breastfeeding women; anyone seeking "anti-aging" without underlying clinical indication or medical supervision.
Realistic timeline: Cellular effects occur within weeks (14-day senescent cell reduction documented[1]); measurable clinical outcomes may take 12 weeks[4].
When to consult a professional: Before starting any senolytic protocol; before combining with other medications; if you experience unusual bleeding, chest pain, shortness of breath, or severe fatigue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are senescent cells?
Senescent cells are aged cells that have stopped dividing but refuse to die through normal apoptosis. Often called 'zombie cells,' they accumulate in tissues with age and secrete inflammatory molecules called SASP (senescence-associated secretory phenotype). These factors—including IL-6, TNF-α, and matrix metalloproteinases—damage neighboring healthy cells and contribute to chronic inflammation. Studies show D+Q can reduce senescence markers like p16INK4a, p19ARF, IL-6, and MMP13 in various tissues. Clearing these cells is the goal of senolytic therapy.
How do you take Dasatinib Quercetin?
Clinical trials administer D+Q orally as capsules or tablets. Dasatinib (100mg) can be taken with or without food. Quercetin (1000-1250mg) absorbs better when taken with meals containing fat. Treatment occurs on consecutive days (2-3 days) followed by rest periods of 2-4 weeks. This intermittent 'hit-and-run' approach allows senescent cell clearance while minimizing drug exposure. The 12-week Alzheimer's trial used 2 days every 2 weeks. Always follow your physician's specific instructions rather than self-dosing.
Is Dasatinib prescription only?
Yes, Dasatinib (brand name Sprycel) is an FDA-approved prescription medication indicated for chronic myeloid leukemia and acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Using it for senolytic purposes is considered 'off-label' use—legal when prescribed by a physician but not specifically approved for anti-aging applications. Quercetin, by contrast, is available over-the-counter as a dietary supplement. Finding a physician willing to prescribe Dasatinib for longevity purposes may require consulting with specialists in longevity medicine or functional medicine clinics familiar with senolytic research.
What is the difference between Dasatinib Quercetin and Fisetin?
D+Q combines a prescription drug (Dasatinib) with a flavonoid (Quercetin), targeting multiple anti-apoptotic pathways. Fisetin is a single plant flavonoid that may have senolytic properties on its own and is available without prescription. D+Q has more published human pilot trial data, while Fisetin trials are ongoing. The mechanisms overlap (both target Bcl-2 family proteins) but are not identical. Some evidence suggests response differs by sex—one comparison study noted genotype-specific differences. Neither is definitively proven superior at this stage of research.
What is senolytic therapy?
Senolytic therapy uses drugs or compounds to selectively eliminate senescent cells. Unlike typical medications that suppress symptoms, senolytics aim to remove the damaged cells driving chronic inflammation and tissue dysfunction. The goal is extending 'healthspan'—years of healthy, functional life—rather than just lifespan. D+Q was one of the first senolytic combinations tested in humans, showing feasibility in diabetic kidney disease[Evidence: B][1]. Research continues expanding to Alzheimer's risk, pulmonary fibrosis, and mental health applications.
Who should not take Dasatinib Quercetin?
Contraindications based on available evidence include: active bleeding or bleeding disorders, concurrent anticoagulant therapy without supervision, severe heart failure or prolonged QT interval, active liver disease or NAFLD (preclinical data showed worsening in this context), pregnancy or breastfeeding (no safety data), and anyone unable to receive physician monitoring. Individuals with planned surgeries should discontinue treatment beforehand. The protocol should only be undertaken under medical supervision given Dasatinib's serious potential side effects at higher doses.
Can you take Dasatinib Quercetin long-term?
The longest human trial data available is 12 weeks. The 6-month primate study demonstrated continued safety and efficacy in nonhuman primates. However, true long-term human safety data beyond 3 months does not yet exist. The intermittent dosing approach (treatment days followed by weeks off) reduces total drug exposure compared to continuous therapy. Repeated cycles over months or years remain experimental. Ongoing monitoring and periodic reassessment with your physician is essential for extended use.
Does Dasatinib Quercetin reverse aging?
D+Q does not 'reverse aging' in a comprehensive sense. It specifically targets senescent cells that contribute to age-related dysfunction. Pilot studies show measurable benefits: reduced senescent cell markers, improved cognitive scores, better metabolic function[6]. However, these represent improvements in specific biomarkers and functions—not reversal of biological age itself. Expectations should be realistic: D+Q may help mitigate certain aspects of aging-related decline, but it is not a fountain of youth. Research remains in early stages.
Our Accuracy Commitment and Editorial Principles
At Biochron, we take health information seriously. Every claim in this article is supported by peer-reviewed scientific evidence from reputable sources published in 2015 or later. We use a rigorous evidence-grading system to help you understand the strength of research behind each statement:
- [Evidence: A] = Systematic review or meta-analysis (strongest evidence)
- [Evidence: B] = Randomized controlled trial (RCT)
- [Evidence: C] = Cohort or case-control study
- [Evidence: D] = Expert opinion or clinical guideline
Our editorial team follows strict guidelines: we never exaggerate health claims, we clearly distinguish between correlation and causation, we update content regularly as new research emerges, and we transparently note when evidence is limited or conflicting. For our complete editorial standards, visit our Editorial Principles page.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals before making changes to your health regimen, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications.
References
- 1 . Senolytics decrease senescent cells in humans: Preliminary report from a clinical trial of Dasatinib plus Quercetin in individuals with diabetic kidney disease, Hickson LJ et al., EBioMedicine, 2019, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: B]
- 2 . Senolytics dasatinib and quercetin in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: results of a phase I, single-blind, single-center, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot trial, Nambiar A et al., EBioMedicine, 2023, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: B]
- 3 . Protocol for a pilot clinical trial of the senolytic drug combination Dasatinib Plus Quercetin to mitigate age-related health and cognitive decline in mental disorders, Schweiger A et al., F1000Research, 2025, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: D]
- 4 . A pilot study of senolytics to improve cognition and mobility in older adults at risk for Alzheimer's disease, Millar CL et al., EBioMedicine, 2025, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: B]
- 5 . Long-term dasatinib plus quercetin effects on aging outcomes and inflammation in nonhuman primates, Ruggiero AD et al., GeroScience, 2023, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: C]
- 6 . Senolytic drugs, dasatinib and quercetin, attenuate adipose tissue inflammation, and ameliorate metabolic function in old age, Islam MT et al., Aging Cell, 2023, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: C]
- 7 . Senolytic therapy combining Dasatinib and Quercetin restores the chondrogenic phenotype of human osteoarthritic chondrocytes, Maurer S et al., Aging Cell, 2025, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: C]
- 8 . Src Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors: New Perspectives on Their Immune, Antiviral, and Senotherapeutic Potential, Rivera-Torres J & San José E, Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2019, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: D]
- 9 . Long-term treatment with senolytic drugs Dasatinib and Quercetin ameliorates age-dependent intervertebral disc degeneration in mice, Novais EJ et al., Nature Communications, 2021, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: C]
- 10 . Senolytic Combination of Dasatinib and Quercetin Alleviates Intestinal Senescence and Inflammation and Modulates the Gut Microbiome in Aged Mice, Saccon TD et al., Journal of Gerontology A, 2021, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: C]
- 11 . Quercetin and dasatinib, two powerful senolytics in age-related cardiovascular disease, Nieto M et al., Biogerontology, 2024, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: D]
- 12 . Mild exacerbation of obesity- and age-dependent liver disease progression by senolytic cocktail dasatinib + quercetin, Raffaele M et al., Cell Communication and Signaling, 2021, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: C]
- 13 . The senolytic cocktail, dasatinib and quercetin, impacts the chromatin structure of both young and senescent vascular smooth muscle cells, Gadecka A et al., GeroScience, 2025, DOI | PubMed [Evidence: C]
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions and before making any changes to their health routine, including starting new supplements.
Neither Biochron nor the author takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person reading or following the information in this educational content. All readers, especially those taking prescription medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program.
If you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.
