The Best Time of Day to Take Low-Dose Naltrexone
A pharmacist and doctor will help patients understand which time of day is best for them.
Nonetheless, the following broad principles apply:
- Consistency: It’s critical to take LDN at the same time every day and to adhere closely to your doctor’s dosage guidelines. Patients see better outcomes when they can remain consistent.
- Titration: LDN is typically begun at a low dose and then progressively increased. You will be guided through this procedure by your healthcare practitioner. Following the schedule is vital for the process.
Why Take LDN at Night?
Pharmacists will recommend taking LDN at night before bed. Taking LDN at night promotes the production of endorphins.
Endorphins function in the brain as neurotransmitters. They are crucial for pain management, mood regulation, stress reduction, and more. Boosting the natural production of endorphins can be highly beneficial for the patient.
When taken at bedtime, endorphin production increases by as much as 300%! This is because 90% of endorphins are produced between 2:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m.
LDN blocks opiate receptors to increase endorphin production. Blocking these receptors gives the false impression that there are not enough endorphins. The body then responds by producing more.
While naltrexone remains in the body for only 3 hours, endorphin levels remain elevated all day.
But taking LDN in the nighttime might not work for everyone.
Why Take LDN in the Day?
The effects of LDN are highly individualized. Though there are many benefits to taking LDN at night, it may only work for some.
Some people may experience sleep disturbances when taking it at night. This can include side effects such as insomnia or vivid dreams that may be uncomfortable.
Additionally, the patient’s lifestyle and routines are always taken into consideration. It may be challenging to take the medication at night if the patient works the night shift.
Overall, patients will need to determine the best time to take LDN with the help of their healthcare providers.
Should I Take LDN with Food?
This is another patient-dependent question.
Taking LDN on an empty stomach can help with absorption. Pharmacists suggest taking the drug one or two hours after eating.
Some people can experience an upset stomach or other side effects when taking LDN on an empty stomach. In this case, it is recommended to be taken with food.
LDN Benefits
These benefits include:
- Increased endorphins
- Reduced inflammation
- Decreased pain
- Enhanced mood
LDN Side Effects
These may include:
- Vivid dreams or sleep disturbances
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Nausea
- Mild headache
- Mild agitation
Learn More About LDN
Please reach out to our pharmacy to learn more about LDN. Our pharmacists are experienced with prescribing LDN and can help you determine if it is right for you.
You can fill out our form, give us a call, or send us a text!
