Understanding Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
Initially, naltrexone was approved in 1984 for counteracting opioid overdose, with dosages ranging between 50 to 100 milligrams to save patients in overdose situations or from opioid misuse. However, during the 1990s, physicians began prescribing naltrexone in significantly reduced doses of 1.5 to 4.5 milligrams to help regulate the immune system and address inflammatory and neurological conditions.
Conditions Treated with Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
Medical practitioners have observed highly favorable outcomes in patients with various health issues using LDN. Some of the most frequently addressed conditions include:
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia
- Digestive ailments such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn’s Disease, and Ulcerative Colitis
- Autoimmune thyroid disorders like Hashimoto's and Graves' Disease
- Skin conditions such as Psoriasis and Eczema
- Various forms of Arthritis
- Other inflammatory conditions
- Mood disorders like Depression
- Restless Leg Syndrome
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
- HIV/AIDS
- Diverse Chronic Pain Disorders
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
Mechanism of Action of Low Dose Naltrexone
LDN operates through several pathways to yield patient benefits.
- LDN boosts endorphin release, enhancing mood, alleviating pain, and reducing inflammation.
- It enhances the production of Opioid Growth Factor, which mitigates inflammation, autoimmune reactions, and the proliferation of tumor cells.
- LDN moderates the activity of immune surveillance cells (Toll-like Receptor-4), decreasing excessive immune responses linked to autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
- It promotes the stabilization of glial cells within the nervous system, which when overactive, can lead to nerve inflammation.
- LDN augments dopamine levels, which is essential for mood regulation, energy, and cognitive function.
Side Effects of Low Dose Naltrexone
Typically, LDN is associated with minimal adverse effects. Initial vivid dreams may occur, and infrequently, patients report transient headaches or body aches.