What is Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)?
- Low-Dose Naltrexone is a lower dosage of a medication traditionally used to manage opioid addiction and alcohol dependence. At lower doses, it's been researched for a variety of other health conditions due to its potential anti-inflammatory, immune-modulating effects, and its ability to reduce chronic pain.
How does LDN work in the body?
- LDN is believed to work by briefly obstructing opioid receptors, which prompts the body to increase production of endorphins and enkephalins (natural painkillers and mood elevators). It may also help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
What conditions may benefit from LDN?
- While more research is needed, some studies have suggested that LDN might be beneficial for conditions such as fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease, and other autoimmune disorders. It's also been studied for chronic pain, and mental health conditions.
How long does it take for LDN to work?
- The response time to LDN can vary from person to person and depends on the condition being treated. Some people might notice improvements within days, while others might need several weeks to months to notice a change.
Is LDN FDA-approved?
- Naltrexone is FDA-approved at higher doses for the treatment of opioid and alcohol dependence. The lower dosage, often used for conditions like fibromyalgia or multiple sclerosis, is not officially FDA-approved but is commonly used off-label.