Question 1

How are stem cells collected?

Accepted Answer

Our partnered physicians can collect and preserve stem cells from two primary sources: bone marrow and adipose (fat) tissue.

Question 2

What is the best age to collect my stem cells?

Accepted Answer

We collect and preserve stem cells for individuals aged 18 and older. Many studies show that cells become damaged and lose their efficacy over time, so preserving them now, in their most youthful state, is ideal.

Question 3

How many times do I need to have my stem cells collected?

Accepted Answer

Only once. Forever Labs thoughtfully stores your cells in multiple vials, for multiple possible treatments in the future. These cells can eventually be grown into large therapeutic doses, depending on your individual needs.

Question 4

What can I use my stem cells for right now?

Accepted Answer

As we age, our stem cells decline in number and efficacy. We can collect them now, in their most youthful state, so they become increasingly more valuable to you in time. Think of this as a biological investment for your future self, instead of using them now, you'd save them when they can create a more significant impact.

Question 5

What can my stem cells be used for in the future?

Accepted Answer

There are currently over 1200 clinical trials exploring the use of stem cells in important areas of longevity, regenerative health, aesthetics, and wellness. While we may not know exactly how you will use these cells, there are a myriad of conditions using stem cells for treatment, as well as trials using stem cells to combat aging itself.

Question 6

How do I request my stem cells?

Accepted Answer

Your stem cells belong to you; Forever Labs is simply the custodian. You can request your cells at any point along the way. They can be shipped to any laboratory, clinic, or other biorepository in the US or abroad.

Question 7

Can I donate my stem cells to research?

Accepted Answer

We believe that we all must play our part to advance medicine and technology. As such, we give our clients the option to donate a micro-aliquot of their stem cells to help further research.

Question 8

What is the ideal age to bank my stem cells?

Accepted Answer

We collect and store stem cells for individuals aged 18 years and older. Ideally, the younger you are, the better. However, as the loss and decline of stem cells continues throughout one's life, and as this decline accelerates with age, storing at any age may provide benefits to your future self.

Question 9

What is the procedure like?

Accepted Answer

Bone Marrow Stem Cell Collection: Bone marrow stem cell collection is a minimally invasive out-patient procedure performed with local anesthetic. The entire procedure takes about 15 minutes. Most clients report a fleeting (5-10 second) pressure-like sensation upon withdrawal. The procedure is low-risk and does not leave scarring. Adipose Stem Cell Collection: Stem cells can also be isolated from fat tissue collected during a liposuction or adipose-based procedure. Ordinarily, that tissue would go to waste. With Forever Labs, the valuable stem cells are extracted from the tissue and stored for your future use. Each of us at Forever Labs has had the procedure. Feel free to reach out and talk to us about it.

Question 10

Are there any health concerns with a bone marrow draw?

Accepted Answer

As with any medical procedure, there is always some form of risk involved. However, when undergoing a bone marrow aspiration, that risk is minimal and complications are rare. If you have a pre-existing condition that causes you to have low platelet counts or a weakened immune system, it may be wise to seek further advice from a medical professional. In general, clients can expect moderate soreness at the site of aspiration as well as possible tenderness and bruising. Talk with your physician about a plan on how to mitigate these symptoms following your procedure.

Question 11

Does research link stem cells to a healthier and longer life?

Accepted Answer

More than 500 registered human clinical trials use mesenchymal stem cells for treatment of age-related disease, and many trials are currently in phases II and III. Furthermore, young stem cell treatments in animal models suggest that these cells have the potential to increase healthspan, and possibly even lifespan. Ever-increasing evidence shows that these benefits may be replicated in humans as well.

Question 12

How are stem cells safely frozen and then thawed for future use?

Accepted Answer

Preserving the viability of cells is of the upmost importance when cryogenically freezing samples for future use. To avoid damage to cells during this process a cryoprotectant, such as Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) is added. When diluted in cell mixtures, DMSO prevents intracellular and extracellular ice crystal formation from occurring, therefore preventing cellular damage and increasing cell membrane integrity. The use of DMSO is a validated method that has been used for decades for cryopreservation in such practices as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and cord blood banking.

Question 13

How do I retrieve my stem cells?

Accepted Answer

You can request your stem cells by contacting Forever Labs directly, or by logging into your account. They can then be shipped to a laboratory, clinic, or other biorepository worldwide for $300.

Question 14

When will I be able to use the stem cells that I have banked?

Accepted Answer

Currently, there are several hundred clinical trials using them for the treatment of diseases such as heart disease, stroke, osteoarthritis, dementia, and more. But clinical trials take several years to complete. We don't want our cells to be that much older when we need them. You can use your stem cells in the US when such a therapy has been approved by the FDA.

Question 15

Can I use someone else's stem cells?

Accepted Answer

You are your own best source of stem cells. By using your own autologous cells, you mitigate the chance of your body eliciting an immune response. This can occur when your immune system identifies something as foreign, and attacks to eliminate the threat, as it does when you become infected with a virus. By using your own stem cells, the risk of such a response is diminished.

Question 16

Does Forever Labs perform stem cell therapy?

Accepted Answer

You can look at Forever Labs as your personal biobank. We provide our clients the ability to safely harvest their stem cells and cryogenically store them so that they remain biologically inert. That means the age you are when you have your procedure, is the age your cells will remain in storage. Forever Labs has always made it their mission to work within the good graces of the FDA, and since the FDA restricts the use of stem cells, Forever Labs does not provide stem cell therapies. However, since the FDA does acknowledge the therapeutic potential of stem cell therapies, you can trust that by banking your cells with Forever Labs, you will have biologically optimal samples at hand for the future.

Question 17

What happens if Forever Labs goes out of business? What safeguards are in place to ensure my cells will be preserved?

Accepted Answer

At Forever Labs we regard your samples as priority #1. With that being said, should there be an unforeseeable circumstance affecting the livelihood of the company, protective measures have been put in place and funds set aside to assure that your samples will remain securely stored at the biorepository until the day you request them.

Question 18

When will the cells be approved for use in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Clinical trials for various stem cell therapies are ongoing, with some in phases II and III. The timeline for FDA approval depends on the specific treatment and the results of these clinical trials.

Question 19

If my physician collects stem cells for a same-day treatment, can my banked stem cells be used instead?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your banked stem cells can potentially be used for physician-directed treatments, subject to regulatory requirements and your physician's treatment plan.

Question 20

Can your stem cells be stored and used for family members?

Accepted Answer

Stem cells work best when they are autologous (from your own body). While there may be some compatibility with close family members, your own stem cells provide the best match and lowest risk of immune rejection.

Frequently Asked Questions