What Is Low-Dose Naltrexone?
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) is a gentle, cost-effective therapy that works with your body to calm inflammation, modulate immunity, and support natural endorphins.
Originally used at higher doses for addiction treatment, naltrexone at 0.5–4.5 mg acts differently—helping with fibromyalgia, autoimmune conditions, chronic pain, fatigue, and metabolic issues.
How LDN Works
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Endorphin boost: brief receptor blockade → upregulates natural endorphins (pain + mood support)
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Immune regulation: balances overactive immune responses in autoimmune and pain disorders
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Nerve calming: reduces microglial activation (less “amplified” pain/fatigue)
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Hormone/metabolic support: can aid PCOS, insulin resistance, thyroid balance
Conditions That May Benefit
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Fibromyalgia & chronic pain syndromes
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Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
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Autoimmune conditions (Hashimoto’s, MS, RA, lupus)
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Inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis)
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PCOS & metabolic syndrome
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Depression/anxiety/PTSD support
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CRPS
What the Research Shows
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Small RCTs and cohort studies suggest meaningful pain/fatigue reduction in fibromyalgia.
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Reviews describe good safety/tolerability and broad anti-inflammatory effects across chronic conditions.
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Many clinicians now consider LDN early—especially when standard options fall short.
Benefits Patients Often Report
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Less widespread pain and inflammation
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More energy, better sleep, clearer thinking
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Fewer autoimmune flares
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Improved insulin sensitivity/metabolic balance
Dosing, Safety & Side Effects
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Typical dose: start low (0.5–1.5 mg) and titrate to 3–4.5 mg (individualized).
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When to take: usually bedtime; morning if vivid dreams/insomnia occur.
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Common, mild, transient effects: vivid dreams, mild headache, temporary fatigue or GI upset.
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Do not use with opioids, methadone, or buprenorphine/Suboxone; avoid during acute withdrawal, pregnancy/breastfeeding, or significant liver disease without provider guidance.