Being a compounding pharmacy it is hard to ignore all the benefits of Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) so we won't.
Compounded LDNIntroduction:
Welcome to our guide on Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN). We'll explore what LDN is, how it works, and the potential benefits it offers for various health conditions. If you have questions or would like a more detailed discussion with one of our experts call us at 314-962-1065.
What is Low Dose Naltrexone?
Low-Dose Naltrexone, or LDN, is a medication that contains a significantly lower dose of naltrexone compared to standard doses used in addiction treatment. Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist, originally developed to help people overcome opioid addiction. In low doses, it has shown to have therapeutic benefits for multiple conditions.
How does LDN Work?
LDN's mechanism of action involves:
- Modulating the immune system: LDN is believed to boost the body's production of endorphins, which can have a positive impact on the immune system.
- Reducing inflammation: LDN may help reduce inflammation in the body, which is a common factor in many chronic health conditions.
- Blocking opioid receptors: LDN blocks opioid receptors briefly, leading to increased endorphin production when the block is lifted.
Evidence Based Benefits of LDN:
- Pain management: LDN may help reduce chronic pain in conditions such as fibromyalgia, inflammatory bowel conditions, neuropathy, and chronic fatigue syndrome. To learn more click here.
- Immune system support: LDN's immune-modulating effects have shown promise in autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn's disease.
- Improved mood and mental health: Some individuals report improved mood, reduced anxiety, and better mental health while using LDN.
- Enhanced Sleep: May contribute to improved sleep patterns and overall sleep quality
- Primary Cancer of the bladder, breast, liver, lung, lymph nodes, colon, and rectum. To read more click here.
- Dermatology: including Hailey-Hailey disease, dermatomyositis, systemic sclerosis, psoriasis and lichen planopilaris. To learn more click here.
- Long Covid: Improvements were seen in energy levels, pain levels, levels of concentration, and sleep disturbances. To learn more click here
- Weight Loss: Natrexone in combination with wellbutrin works well for weight loss.
Conditions that may benefit from LDN:
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Fibromyalgia
- Crohn's Disease
- Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
- Lyme Disease
- Psoriasis
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
The Research and Application of Low Dose Naltrexone
Clinical Practice
Bolton M, Hodkinson A, Boda S, et al. Serious adverse events reported in placebo randomised controlled trials of oral naltrexone: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Med, 2019;17(1):10.
Schwaiger T. The Uses of Low-Dose Naltrexone in Clinical Practice; Potential benefits for a wide range of conditions. Natural Medicine Journal, 2018; 10(4).
Zagon IS, McLaughlin PJ. Intermittent blockade of OGFr and treatment of autoimmune disorders. Exp Biol Med (Maywood), 2018:1535370218817746. doi: 10.1177/1535370218817746.
Toljan K, Vrooman B. Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)-Review of Therapeutic Utilization. Med Sci (Basel), 2018;6(4).
Li Z, You Y, Griffin N, Feng J, Shan F. Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): A promising treatment in immune-related diseases and cancer therapy. Int Immunopharmacol, 2018;61:178-184.
Patten DK, Schultz BG, Berlau DJ. The Safety and Efficacy of Low-Dose Naltrexone in the Management of Chronic Pain and Inflammation in Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia, Crohn’s Disease, and Other Chronic Pain Disorders. Pharmacotherapy, 2018;38(3):382-389.
Brown N, Panksepp J. Low-dose naltrexone for disease prevention and quality of life. Med Hypotheses, 2009; 72(3):333-337.
Conditions Treated
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Chrone’s Disease and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Autism
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Fibromyalgia
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Pain
- Mood Disorders
Additional Research
Mischoulon D, Hylek L, Yeung A, et al. Randomized, proof-of-concept trial of low dose naltrexone for patients with breakthrough symptoms of major depressive disorder on antidepressants. Journal of Affective Disorders, 2017; 208:6-14.
Pape W, Wöller W. Low dose naltrexone in the treatment of dissociative symptoms. Nervenarzt, 2015; 86(3):346-351.
Safety and side effects:
- LDN is generally well-tolerated, but side effects can include vivid dreams, temporary sleep disturbances, and anxiety can occur. These side effects can be minimized with dose titrations and additional additives.
- It's crucial to consult with a knowledgeable health team of doctors and compounding pharmacists before starting LDN, as individual responses may vary.
Obtaining LDN:
- LDN requires a prescription. If you are having a hard time finding a doctor who will get you started, reach out to one of the providers below and see if they can help. We work with the following prescribers in the Saint Louis area for low dose naltrexone and recommend all of them.
- Webster Family Physicians
- Vibrant Wellness
- Specialist in Dermatology & Cosmetic Medicine
- GI Specialist
- LDN Tracker- get this app to track your diet, symptoms, and improvement while using LDN.
- Webster Pharmacy prepares prescriptions based on a prescriber's instructions
In Closing:
Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) presents an exciting avenue for addressing various health conditions, particularly those involving the immune system, inflammation, and chronic pain. However, it's important to approach LDN use under the guidance of a knowledgeable healthcare provider.
Unlock the potential benefits of LDN by discussing it with your healthcare professional to determine if it's a suitable option for your unique needs.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance and recommendations regarding LDN.
