Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) for Long COVID and other chronic conditions: Hope for Lingering Symptoms

 

Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) is a promising treatment option for those struggling with lingering symptoms of Long COVID, as well as for managing a variety of autoimmune conditions and cancer. Originally developed to treat opioid addiction, LDN works in a different way when used at very low doses. But how does it work, and how can it help you feel better? Let’s break it down.

What is Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)?

The FDA originally approved Naltrexone in the 1980s to treat opioid addiction by blocking the effects of opioids–in standard doses (50-100 mg), it works as a “blocker” for opioid receptors in the brain. At much lower doses (~5mg or less), naltrexone has a very different effect. Instead of blocking opioids completely, it helps fine-tune the immune system and reduce inflammation, making it useful for treating chronic illnesses.

What are Naltrexone and LDN used to treat?

Naltrexone is FDA-approved to treat both opioid and alcohol use disorders. Although research is still ongoing, LDN has shown promise in treating several other chronic conditions. Some of these include Long COVID [1], cancer [2] (used alongside other conventional cancer treatments), chronic pain [3], and many autoimmune conditions [4], including:

Important Notes:

  • Naltrexone is only FDA-approved to treat opioid and alcohol use disorders. The FDA has not approved LDN to treat any conditions.
  • Research is still ongoing, and evidence for its effectiveness varies.  
  • It’s crucial to discuss LDN with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if it’s appropriate for you and to weigh the potential risks and benefits.

How Does LDN Work?

Inflammation is the body’s natural way of fighting infection or injury. But when inflammation sticks around too long, it can damage healthy tissues and make you feel worse. LDN helps reduce inflammation by lowering the activity of certain proteins in your body called cytokines. (Cytokines are like messengers telling your immune system to rev up or calm down. LDN helps lower the “rev up” signals.)

Additionally, LDN temporarily blocks certain receptors in your brain, which tricks your body into making more endorphins–these natural hormones help with pain, mood, and even the health of your immune system.

How can LDN help Long COVID and other chronic conditions?

Long COVID is the name given to ongoing symptoms that can stick around for months after a COVID-19 infection. These can include fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, and more. Many of these symptoms are linked to chronic inflammation and an overactive immune response, making LDN a potential solution.

Benefits of LDN for Chronic Conditions

  • Calms Inflammation: LDN reduces the overactive signals that drive inflammation in the body. This can help with symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, and brain fog.
  • Boosts Energy: By reducing inflammation and improving immune balance, LDN can help you feel less fatigued and more energized.

Is LDN safe? 

LDN is generally well-tolerated, with few side effects. Some people experience vivid dreams or mild sleep disturbances when they start, but these usually go away as your body adjusts. As with any medication, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider if you begin to experience any side effects.

The Future of LDN

Low-dose naltrexone offers a hopeful option for those struggling with chronic conditions like long COVID and autoimmune diseases. By addressing inflammation and immune imbalance, LDN can help restore health and improve the quality of life for many patients.

MindStream Can Help.

Our team at MindStream Integrative Medicine understands that every individual and their health journey is unique. We take a holistic approach to healthcare, considering your whole person and not just your symptoms. We can help to:

  • Evaluate your overall health and identify any underlying root causes of your symptoms.
  • Explore the potential benefits of LDN for your specific situation.
  • Create a personalized treatment plan that may include LDN, along with other integrative therapies.
  • Guide you through the process of starting and managing LDN treatment.
  • Monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed.

If you’d like to learn more about how LDN could help you, schedule a visit with us today. We can help you explore if LDN is a good option for you and create a customized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

To schedule an appointment, call 615.541.9933 or book online.

Sources

  • Davis, Hannah E et al. “Long COVID: major findings, mechanisms and recommendations.” Nature reviews. Microbiology vol. 21,3 (2023): 133-146. doi:10.1038/s41579-022-00846-2
  • de Carvalho, Jozélio Freire, and Thelma Skare. “Low-Dose Naltrexone in Rheumatological Diseases.” Mediterranean journal of rheumatology vol. 34,1 1-6. 31 Mar. 2023, doi:10.31138/mjr.34.1.1
  • Dietz, Tiffany K, and Kirsten N Brondstater. “Long COVID management: a mini review of current recommendations and underutilized modalities.” Frontiers in medicine vol. 11 1430444. 14 Jun. 2024, doi:10.3389/fmed.2024.1430444
  1. Tamariz, L., Bast, E., Klimas, N., & Palacio, A. (2024). Low-dose Naltrexone Improves post-COVID-19 Condition Symptoms. Clin Ther, 46(3), e101-e106. [PubMed] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38267326/
  2. Ciwun, M., Tankiewicz-Kwedlo, A., & Pawlak, D. (2024). Low-Dose Naltrexone as an Adjuvant in Combined Anticancer Therapy. Cancers (Basel), 16(6), 1240. [PubMed] https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16061240
  3. Younger, J., Parkitny, L., & McLain, D. (2014). The use of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) as a novel anti-inflammatory treatment for chronic pain. Pain Medicine, 15(1), 121-130. [PubMed] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3962576/
  4. Toljan, K., & Vrooman, B. (2018). Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)—Review of Therapeutic Utilization. Med Sci (Basel), 6(4), 82.  [PubMed] https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci6040082

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns. If you’re considering LDN, please discuss it with your doctor to weigh the potential risks and benefits. They can provide you with the most up-to-date information and guidance based on your individual situation.

Alyssa Kalams, MSN, AGNP-C, PN1

Nurse Practitioner + Nutrition Coach

As a nurse practitioner, Alyssa employs a holistic approach to patient care, integrating nutrition and lifestyle strategies to promote overall well-being. She has a special interest in skin health and has completed additional training in integrative dermatology through LearnSkin.

Learn more about Alyssa and the MindStream team.

 

 

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