Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) Is an FDA-approved drug, usually used to treat drug and alcohol addiction. It has been found to be highly beneficial in boosting the immune system when used in very small doses, usually 3 to 4.5 mg. It works by raising the endorphin levels produced in the brain and adrenal glands. These are natural peptides that are powerful regulators of the immune system and has been shown to increases the body’s natural defenses.
LDN is taken once daily at night when the rhythms of the body’s production of master hormones are at their peak. Taken at bedtime, LDN attaches to opioid receptors in the brain and signals your body to increase endorphin production. The increased endorphins help produce stem cells, macrophages, natural killer cells, T and B cells and other immune cells. LDN also prevents immune system hyperactivity that creates autoimmune disorders. It also reduces the release of inflammatory and neurotoxic chemicals in the brain. LDN produces a prolonged regulation of vital elements of the immune system by causing an increase in enkephalin (peptides related to the endorphins) production.
LDN has virtually no side effects except for mild insomnia at the start of treatment with some patients and is available by prescription only from compounding pharmacies. LDN should be used only in unaltered form that allows you to receive the full dose quickly. Slow-release formulas should be avoided, as this does not support the therapeutic benefits.
LDN has been shown to help with many conditions, including the following:
- ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease)
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Anti-aging
- Autism
- Celiac disease
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Crohn’s disease
- Diabetic neuropathies
- Endometriosis
- Fibromyalgia
- Hepatitis C
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Lupus
- Multiple sclerosis
- Parkinson’s disease
- Psoriasis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sarcoidosis
- Scleroderma
- Ulcerative colitis
LDN corrects the endorphin and enkephalin deficiencies in the body, boosts the immune system and fights inflammation. You should only use LDN under a doctor’s supervision and get a health care provider who is already knowledgeable at using LDN as a form of treatment.
