Low Dose Naltrexone Side Effects: What You Need to Know | Credihealth

Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) is widely used to manage chronic pain, inflammation, and autoimmune conditions. Unlike the standard naltrexone dosage for opioid or alcohol dependence (50–100 mg), LDN is prescribed at much lower doses (0.5–4.5 mg).

While LDN is generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience temporary or mild side effects, especially during the adjustment period.

In this guide, we’ll explore potential low-dose naltrexone side effects, how long they last, and practical tips to manage them. Let’s Read!

What Is Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)?

A low dose of naltrexone is generally a dose taken in one-tenth, or 10%, of the standard dose for opioid addiction. This dose is around 4.5mg of naltrexone per day compared with the usual dosage, which is approximately 50-100mg per day.

Using LDN for all these conditions is “off-label” which means that this medicine has not been approved by the FDA, but doctors can still prescribe it.

Common Uses of LDN

LDN has been explored for treating:

• Autoimmune disorders (e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, multiple sclerosis)

• Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME)

• Chronic pain conditions (e.g., fibromyalgia, neuropathy)

• Inflammatory diseases (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)

• Gulf War syndrome

• Cancer (as an adjunct therapy)

Potential Low-Dose Naltrexone Side Effects

Side effects of LDN are uncommon due to the low dose. Studies suggest that around 77% of people show no side effects during LDN treatment. The following are the unwanted effects of low-dose naltrexone:

Common Side Effects of LDN

These side effects usually appear in the first few weeks and improve as your body adjusts:

• Sleep Disturbances: Some individuals experience insomnia, restless sleep, or vivid dreams, particularly in the initial few weeks of LDN treatment. Try taking LDN in the morning if it disrupts sleep.

• Digestive Issues: Mild stomach discomfort, nausea, or bloating might occur but these effects improve as the body adjusts to the medicine. Eat light meals and stay hydrated to avoid these issues.

• Nausea or Vomiting: By blocking the opiate receptors in the gut, LDN can slow down the gut which can make the food sit longer and trigger nausea and vomiting. Take LDN with food, it can help.

• Headaches: Research reports that some people also report frequent headaches that go away after some time. To avoid headaches, stay hydrated and avoid caffeine before bed.

• Fatigue or Drowsiness: Some users may initially experience tiredness, though others might have increased energy. If fatigue persists, consider lowering the dose and gradually increasing.

• Mood Changes: People may also go through mild irritability or anxiety during the initial adjustment phase. This usually resolves in 1-2 weeks but if symptoms persist, discuss a dose adjustment with your doctor.

• Joint or Muscle Pain: Some individuals may experience these side effects in several joints or muscles throughout the body. Light stretching and hydration may help you with this.

If these symptoms last long and cause any discomfort, see a doctor.

Severe Side Effects (Rare but Serious)

Although rare, in some cases, people may experience:

• Allergic reactions: May include swelling, itching, rashes, or trouble breathing, requiring immediate medical help.

• Severe Gastrointestinal Problems: Persistent abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.

• Severe Insomnia: Continuous sleep disturbances that do not improve with time.

• Intense Mood Changes: Extreme irritability, anxiety, or depression in sensitive people.

• Liver Toxicity (Rare): Increased liver enzymes in people living with pre-existing liver issues.

Note: In case of severe side effects, discontinue LDN use and seek medical attention immediately. You may also report the side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How Long Do LDN Side Effects Last?

Most low-dose naltrexone side effects subside within some days or weeks on their own as the body adjusts to it.

If any side effects of LDN last for months or are severe, consult a doctor for dosage adjustment and other alternative solutions.

How Long Does Low-Dose Naltrexone Take To Work?

Low-dose naltrexone takes around 4-6 weeks to show noticeable effects. That is why the healthcare providers initially prescribe the lowest dose for some weeks before increasing its amount. In most cases, it takes up to 12 weeks to experience the full benefits.

If you don’t see any results after 6 weeks of the LDN treatment, speak with the doctor about other alternative options. 

Tips To Manage Side Effects of Low-Dose Naltrexone

Follow these tips for managing the potential side effects of LDN:

• Adjust the timing: Take the medicine in the morning or earlier in the evening to avoid sleep disturbances.

• Gradually increase the dose: Slowly increase the dose so that your body adjusts with the medicine which helps minimize the side effects.

• Stay hydrated and eat light foods: Drinking a lot of water and eating light, small meals can relieve digestive discomfort or nausea.
  

• Manage sleep problems: Practice proper sleep hygiene like avoiding screen time before going to bed which might prevent insomnia.

• Check for mood changes: If irritability or anxiety occurs, lower the dose or see a doctor.

• Support liver health: Go for regular liver function tests, if you have pre-existing liver issues.

If side effects are persistent and severe, seek professional guidance to adjust the dosage or get alternative options. 

Precautions Before Taking Low-Dose Naltrexone

Low-dose naltrexone is generally safe, but people with these conditions should seek a doctor’s guidance before starting the treatment:

• Patients using opioid medications: As low-dose naltrexone can block the activity of opioid receptors and bring withdrawal symptoms, these patients need to be cautious. 

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: As there are limited studies on the safety of LDN use during these phases, make sure to seek your gynecologist’s guidance first.

• Individuals with liver or kidney conditions: As the liver helps with metabolization and kidneys with excretion of naltrexone, people with liver and kidney issues need to be more careful.

• Are allergic to naltrexone: Avoid it if you have an allergy to any ingredients of naltrexone to avoid allergic reactions.

• Have withdrawal symptoms from opioid addiction: LDN can severely increase withdrawal symptoms so use it cautiously.

Note: Make sure to discuss your recent opioid use or history of opioid dependence with your doctor before you start the LDN treatment. This can help avoid opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Pros and Cons of Low-Dose Naltrexone

A balanced view is crucial when it comes to low-dose naltrexone. So, take a look at its advantages and disadvantages:

Summing Up

Low-dose naltrexone side effects may include sleep disturbances, headaches, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, mood changes, and muscle or joint pain. LDN can also lead to severe side effects including, allergic reactions, severe insomnia, and severe gastrointestinal problems. Most side effects are mild and occur for a temporary period.

If you want to minimize side effects take LDN at the right time, stay hydrated, and gradually increase the dose. If you experience persistent or severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately. Moreover, use LDN with precautions under a doctor’s guidance if you are using any opioid medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, have kidney or liver issues, or are allergic to naltrexone’s ingredients.

Read Also: What To Avoid When Taking Low-Dose Naltrexone

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