Low dose naltrexone (LDN) is a promising new treatment option for a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. There is a growing body of evidence that the body’s endorphins (naturally occurring opioids) have a critical role in regulating the immune system. Administering LDN between 9 and 11 p.m. blocks opioid receptors for several hours during sleep, setting off a “rebound” effect that is unique to the lower dose. Naltrexone has been found to be effective in doses of 1.5mg to 4.5mg in preliminary studies.

What is LDN?

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that was approved by the FDA in 1984 for the treatment of opioid addiction at a dose of 50mg. “Low dose” naltrexone refers to the use of a dosage that is much lower than that used to treat opioid addiction. Naltrexone at this lower dose (up to 4.5mg in most cases) had its first human trial in 2007 and since then has shown promise as a treatment for a variety of medical conditions including multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, fibromyalgia, and more.

LDN is now being studied for a variety of conditions because it is effective as well as safe. There are rarely any side effects reported in studies to-date besides some cases of insomnia. The medication is also relatively inexpensive compared to other drugs used to treat these conditions.

Where Can you Get LDN?

Since the FDA-approved version of naltrexone is too high a dose for treating other conditions besides opioid addiction, LDN must be custom-made at a compounding pharmacy. With this medication, the higher dose is not always better. The optimal dosage is determined by starting low (1.5mg) and working up to a dosage of 4.5mg and sometimes higher.

Learn more:

What is LDN?

LDN for Crohn’s Disease

LDN for Chronic Illness

Research

The use of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) as a novel anti-inflammatory treatment for chronic pain – Clinical Rheumatology

Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)—Review of Therapeutic Utilization – Medical Sciences