Low Dose Naltrexone for Fibromyalgia

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Does Low Dose Naltrexone Work for Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a debilitating and complex ailment that can be difficult to pinpoint. The consistent pain and exhaustion from fibromyalgia can lead to an extreme reduction in quality of life, especially when traditional medications don’t work.

Low dose naltrexone (LDN) has shown promise in many cases to improve fibromyalgia symptoms. Patients have reported positive outcomes when using LDN to help with their chronic pain.

LDN has emerged as a suitable option for many patients who have fibromyalgia.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome associated with widespread pain throughout the body. Often referred to as “central sensitivity syndrome,” it consists of musculoskeletal pain and sensitivity to mechanical stimulation.

It affects 2-8% of people worldwide, including:
  • 5% of women
  • 1.6% of men

The average age of diagnosis is between 34 and 53 years old. In the United States, annual costs associated with treating fibromyalgia can range from $1,750 to $35,920.

Signs and Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia causes a significant number of debilitating symptoms, such as:
  • Fatigue
  • Sleep disturbance
  • Cognitive impairments
  • Hyperalgesia (excessive pain in normal circumstances)

These symptoms, when they all come together, can significantly impair individuals, making it challenging for them to participate in everyday life events.

What is Fibromyalgia?

How Does LDN Affect Pain?

Anti-Inflammation

Irritated glial cells can trigger inflammation in the body. LDN inhibits these cells and prevents the pro-inflammatory cytokine cascade associated with the development of chronic pain.

Analgesic Effects

Low doses of naltrexone can have paradoxical analgesic effects. This can help the patient reduce pain symptoms.

Release of Endorphins

LDN can increase the amount of endorphins in patients. The improvement in endorphin function can lead to a reduction in pain in fibromyalgia patients.

Analgesic Effects

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Responses to LDN are highly dependent on the individual. Though LDN has relieved pain for many people, it may not work for everyone.

LDN is considered an off-label medication. There is no standard time frame for the healing process.

However, there is an established typical time frame for dosage titration. New patients will generally start with 1.5 mg of naltrexone and increase it by 1.5 mg monthly.

After two months, patients will settle at the 4.5 mg dosage. Naturally, your doctor and pharmacist will help monitor tolerance of the drug and oversee the dosage increase process.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Are There Side Effects?

There are a few side effects associated with LDN. These include:
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Vivid dreams
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms
  • Nausea
  • Mild headache
  • Mild agitation

Most side effects are mild and even temporary. LDN is not associated with any long-term side effects.

Are There Side Effects?​
Green Leaf

Have Fibromyalgia? Let's Get in Touch!

Fibromyalgia can be difficult to treat, but LDN offers an alternative option for patients. Please contact our pharmacy if you have any questions or wish to learn more.

You may call our Littleton or Denver pharmacy or fill out the form on this page, and we will respond promptly.

We also accept messages via text and social media.

Text us directly here:
Littleton: 303-707-1500
Cherry Creek: 303-333-2010

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