low dose naltrexone

What is Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is a drug that was  approved by the FDA in 1984 in a 50mg dose for the purpose of helping heroin or opium overdose by blocking the effects of such drugs. Naltrexone is a competitive antagonist at M-opioid and K-opioid receptors, blocking the effect of exogenous opioids.

What is Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)?

In 1985, Bernard Bihari, MD, a physician with a clinical practice in New York City, discovered the effects of a much smaller dose of naltrexone (approximately one tenth of 50mg) impacts body’s immune system. There are a few hypothesis as to how LDN reduces symptoms and severity of MS, Fibromyalgia, Crohn’s disease, complex regional pain syndrome, as well as other immune system-related conditions such as cancer and HIV/AIDS.

LDN for Pain

Naltrexone’s blockage of opioid receptors causes body to increase production of natural endorphins and up regulation (modulation) of the immune system. It may also act as antagonist at receptors ia macrophages and microglia cells, causing anti-inflammatory effect.

Fibromyalgia

A recent study has shown that LDN was beneficial for reducing the impact on fibromyalgia pain and improving the mood of patients that suffer from fibromyalgia.

LDN for Autoimmune Disorders

Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors mainly used in opioid addiction. At low dose it exhibits immunomodulary effect. Naltrexone comes in two isomer forms. Levo-naltrexone binds to opioid receptors causing body’s rebound increase in own endorphin production. Dextro-naltrexone binds to toll-like receptors (TLR), such receptors are implicated in immune response causing inflammation (eg, macrophages). Blocking TLR with lose dose naltrexone (LDN) dampens the immune system. This in turn helps autoimmune disorders. Low Dose Naltrexone Toronto

LDN may be a viable treatment for:

  • Fibromyalgia
  • Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Psoriasis
  • Chronic Pain
  • MS

For more information on LDN, please visit: www.ldninfo.org

Is LDN Covered?

Low Dose Naltrexone may be covered by your Private Insurance plan. We are able to submit this prescription through your insurance for you. Unfortunately, this medication is not covered by ODB.

The Organic Compounding Pharmacy specializes in compounding Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) in a variety of dosage strengths as well as a variety of fillers.

For information, contact us.