What is an Autoimmune Disease?
Our immune system is set up to identify potentially dangerous bacteria or viruses. Once identified, it sends white blood cells to eliminate the threat and keep the body safe from harm. Autoimmune diseases are conditions where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and cells. It does not properly identify the malignant pathogens. This leads to inflammation, pain, and even bodily damage to the individual. There are a wide range of autoimmune diseases that affect different parts of the body and cause different types of symptoms. This makes it difficult to diagnose and pinpoint the cause of certain illnesses.
Low Dose Naltrexone for Autoimmune Diseases
What is Low Dose Naltrexone?
Naltrexone is a medication that has been used for decades to help individuals who struggle with addiction to opioid drugs and alcohol. In recent years, studies have examined the other uses that lower doses of naltrexone can provide. These studies showed that low doses of naltrexone can also be used for relief in a variety of autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, and fibromyalgia.
LDN is taken at a low dose, typically between 1.5 and 4.5 mg per day. This is much lower than the dose used to treat addiction to opioids and alcohol (50mg). This lower dose is what allows naltrexone to provide relief from autoimmune diseases, as it does not interfere with the body’s natural processes or cause significant side effects.
LDN for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
MS patients have shown their praise for LDN. There is overwhelming anecdotal evidence for the use of LDN for MS. Patients report having experienced not only a prevention of relapses, but also a reduction in the progression of the disease. It is proposed that LDN helps prevent the natural death of myelinating cells in the central nervous system. Further studies are proposed to corroborate the positive anecdotal evidence.
LDN for Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel illness that affects the gastrointestinal tract. LDN’s ability to reduce inflammation and swelling throughout the body has shown promising results for Crohn’s disease and other gut health illnesses. Opioid antagonists such as LDN can play a role healing and repairing damaged tissues. Though more studies are necessary, recent studies have shown promise.
LDN for Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition characterized by widespread pain throughout the body. Other symptoms include fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties. Recent studies show LDN’s capabilities of providing relief for people suffering from chronic pain. Along with it’s anti-inflammatory capabilities, LDN also has the potential to reduce dependency on other opiates or pain reducing drugs. LDN is well tolerated in the body, and the evidence of it’s uses continues to build.
Low Dose Naltrexone Capsules
LDN can be compounded into a variety of medication forms, including capsules. LDN capsules are typically taken at bedtime, as this is when the body is naturally producing endorphins. The capsules are available in a variety of strengths, ranging from 1.5 mg to 4.5 mg, and can be customized to meet individual needs. The recommended starting dose for LDN is typically 1.5 mg, with the dose gradually increased over time as needed.
Are There Side Effects for LDN Capsules?
Like any medication, LDN can have potential side effects. However, LDN is generally really well-tolerated and side effects are typically mild and temporary. Some potential side effects of LDN Capsules include headache, nausea, and sleep disturbances. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting LDN or any other new medication, and to report any side effects that you experience.
Should I Try LDN?
LDN Capsules are a promising treatment option for a wide range of health conditions. If you are interested in trying LDN, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine if it is appropriate for you. We can help you develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs and symptoms. With proper guidance and monitoring, LDN capsules can provide relief from autoimmune disease symptoms.
Rachel Burns, PharmD
Lead Pharmacist, ClearSpring Pharmacy
