Low Dose Naltrexone

​How can LDN possibly help me?
It alleviates discomfort and combats inflammation. This treatment is employed for various conditions, including cancers, autoimmune disorders, chronic pain, and mental health challenges, among others. The field of treatment is continuously advancing, with new conditions and therapeutic approaches being introduced on a regular basis.

Naltrexone is a medication that has been utilized to assist individuals in recovering from opioid and alcohol use disorders. However, its off-label application in significantly lower doses has demonstrated advantages across various conditions due to its temporary binding to opioid receptors in the brain. This binding action stimulates the compensatory production of natural endorphins, which can positively influence the immune system and reduce the production of cells that may adversely affect numerous medical conditions.

Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN), when used alongside other disease-modifying therapeutic approaches, has shown efficacy in alleviating a broad spectrum of medical issues and symptoms, including:
 

• Fibromyalgia

• Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s Disease

• Multiple sclerosis

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Chronic pain from various sources

• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

• Epstein Barr virus/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

• Pernicious anemia

• Lupus and other autoimmune disorders

• Scleroderma

• Excess weight

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
   

Emerging research indicates that our natural endorphins, often referred to as our body's natural pain relievers, play a crucial role in regulating the immune system, among other functions. LDN has been linked to improvements in symptoms associated with conditions such as fibromyalgia, Ulcerative Colitis/Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and other autoimmune syndromes, as well as depression, Hashimoto’s Thyroid Disease, complex regional pain syndrome, and excess weight.

Furthermore, LDN has been shown to alleviate chronic pain by temporarily binding to and inhibiting a mechanism known as the MU receptor, which is associated with pain perception. This blockage signals the body that there is an insufficient production of endorphins, prompting their release.

How does LDN function?
LDN operates as an opioid antagonist, enhancing the body's production of endorphins and enkephalins. At low doses, LDN facilitates a prolonged release of endorphins, which contributes to decreased inflammation and improved immune function. The increase in endorphins has been linked to alleviated symptoms and slowed progression of chronic diseases.

According to the LDN Trust, the mechanisms of action for LDN involve Levo and Dextro naltrexone antagonizing the opiate and endorphin receptors, resulting in several effects:​

• Temporary binding to MU receptors leads to increased endorphin release.

• Endorphins play a role in modulating the immune response.

• This modulation helps to slow the proliferation of unwanted cells.

• LDN antagonizes TLR, which suppresses the cytokine-mediated immune response.

• It also inhibits TLR-mediated production of NF-kB, thereby reducing inflammation and potentially downregulating oncogenes.

Additionally, LDN may help to suppress microglial activity. Microglia are the primary immune cells in the central nervous system and are responsible for the inflammatory response triggered by pathogens or injury. When activated, microglia release pro-inflammatory cytokines, prostaglandins, nitric oxide, and excitatory amino acids.

What sensations might I experience with LDN?
Due to its ability to elevate endorphin levels, LDN may foster an overall sense of well-being. Clinical trials have shown improvements in self-reported measures of depression, wellness, and quality of life. A positive state of well-being can help mitigate stress, alleviate depression, and enhance healing processes. Furthermore, improved well-being may influence eating habits and support better weight management.
LDN is generally prescribed to be taken at bedtime, as the majority of endorphin production occurs during sleep. Some individuals may notice changes in their sleep patterns with nighttime dosing; in such cases, taking LDN during the day may be a more suitable option.
Schedule a consultation with the specialized professionals at Revive Health & Wellness to assess your specific requirements. 

Naltrexone, when administered in extremely low doses, has demonstrated efficacy in safely addressing a variety of conditions and symptoms while producing minimal side effects.

What Are the Side Effects?
The side effects associated with low-dose naltrexone (LDN) are generally minimal and often temporary, making it a suitable option for many patients. While higher doses of naltrexone may lead to certain side effects, these are typically less pronounced and short-lived when administered in lower doses. Potential side effects may include:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal discomfort

• Constipation

• Reduced appetite

• Headaches

• Fatigue

• Insomnia

• Dizziness

• Depression

• Anxiety

 

​Who Should Avoid LDN?
LDN should not be taken by individuals who:

• Are currently using prescribed opioid medications or illicit drugs

• Are enrolled in an opioid maintenance program or are taking suboxone or methadone

• Are experiencing acute withdrawal from opioids or alcohol

• Have liver issues or abnormal liver function tests

• Are undergoing treatment for or have a history of alcohol use disorder

• Are scheduled for surgery or plan to use prescribed opioid medications

• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
   

It is important to note that LDN is not intended for the treatment of acute conditions. It is primarily used for chronic diseases, and despite over 90 studies exploring its various applications—including pain relief, fibromyalgia, Crohn's disease, multiple sclerosis, systemic sclerosis, and even cancer—LDN therapy is considered off-label and is not FDA-approved for indications beyond opioid and alcohol use disorders. Consulting with a healthcare provider before initiating LDN is crucial to ensure there are no potential interactions with other medications, and one should not discontinue any current treatments without first discussing it with a specialist.

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Reach out to your healthcare provider or schedule an appointment with us to determine if you are a candidate for LDN.