LDN Therapy

Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) therapy involves using naltrexone—typically 1.5 to 4.5 mg per day—much lower than the standard 50 mg dose used for opioid or alcohol dependence. At low doses, naltrexone acts differently and is being studied for its potential immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, rather than as an opioid antagonist. 

 Immune System Regulation

• Mechanism: LDN temporarily blocks opioid receptors, prompting the body to increase production of endorphins and enkephalins (natural painkillers and immune regulators).
   
• Result: May restore balance in the immune system, especially helpful in autoimmune diseases.
   

Reduction in Chronic Inflammation

• LDN may reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines (like TNF-alpha and IL-6), which are elevated in many chronic conditions.
   
• This makes it potentially beneficial for:
   
  • Fibromyalgia
     
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)
     
  • Inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis)
     

Pain Relief

• By increasing endorphin levels and reducing inflammation, LDN may help reduce pain perception.
   
• Especially promising in:
   
  • Fibromyalgia
     
  • Complex regional pain syndrome
     
  • Neuropathic pain
     
  • Interstitial cystitis
     

Neurological Protection

• LDN may have neuroprotective effects by reducing microglial activation (immune cells in the brain and spinal cord).
   
• Studied in conditions like:
   
  • Multiple sclerosis (MS)
     
  • Parkinson’s disease
     
  • ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease)
     
  • Alzheimer’s disease (early-stage research)
     

Mental Health Support

• Anecdotally, some patients report improved mood, sleep, and cognitive function.
   
• This may be due to endorphin boosts and reduced neuroinflammation.
   

Potential Anti-Cancer Properties

• Preliminary lab and animal studies suggest LDN may inhibit tumor growth and enhance immune surveillance.
   
• Human evidence is limited but under investigation.
   

Support in Autoimmune Conditions

• Conditions where LDN has shown promise:
   
  • Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
     
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
     
  • Lupus
     
  • Psoriasis
     
  • Sjögren’s syndrome

Fewer Side Effects than Other Therapies

• Unlike traditional immunosuppressants or pain medications, LDN typically has a low side effect profile, especially at compounded doses.