Exploring the medical marvel of Low Dose Naltrexone

At My Pure MD Houston, we are constantly pushing the boundaries of medicine and pursuing innovative modes of treatment. One such promising treatment therapy is Low Dose Naltrexone. From mitigating chronic pain and autoimmunity to restoring healthy gut function, low-dose naltrexone (LDN) is the medical community’s best-kept secret that is quietly being researched for its excellent outcomes.

But first, what is Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is a medication that has been used for decades to help people overcome addiction to opioids and alcohol. It works by blocking the effects of these substances on the brain, reducing cravings, and preventing relapse. Naltrexone binds to the body’s opioid receptors, which are located throughout the brain and body. These receptors play a key role in the body’s pain and pleasure pathways, and are responsible for producing feelings of euphoria when opioids or alcohol are consumed.

By blocking these receptors, naltrexone prevents opioids and alcohol from producing these pleasurable effects, thereby reducing cravings and the likelihood of relapse. Additionally, naltrexone has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and pain in the body.

Overall, naltrexone is a versatile medication that has multiple functions in the body, including reducing cravings for addictive substances and reducing inflammation and pain.

How is Low Dose Naltrexone helpful for me?

Low dose naltrexone (LDN) is a medication that is used in small doses to treat a wide range of health conditions, including autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, and certain types of cancer. While naltrexone is typically used in higher doses to treat addiction, the lower doses used in LDN have a different mechanism of action.

At low doses of 1.5-4.5mg/day, naltrexone functions as an immunomodulator, meaning that it helps to regulate the immune system. Specifically, it works by temporarily blocking the body’s opioid receptors, which are involved in regulating immune function.

When the receptors are blocked, the body responds by increasing the production of endorphins and other natural opioids. These substances then activate other receptors in the body, including the Toll-like receptors, which are involved in regulating inflammation and immune function.

This increase in endorphins and activation of the Toll-like receptors has several beneficial effects on the body. For one, it can help to reduce inflammation, which is a common factor in many different health conditions. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a range of health issues, including autoimmune diseases, chronic pain, and certain types of cancer. By reducing inflammation, LDN may be able to help improve symptoms and slow the progression of these conditions.

In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, LDN has also been shown to have immunomodulatory effects. It has been demonstrated to increase levels of regulatory T cells, which help to control the immune response and prevent autoimmune attacks on healthy tissues. It has also been shown to increase the production of natural killer cells, which are important for fighting off infections and cancer cells.

Overall, low-dose naltrexone works in the body by temporarily blocking the body’s opioid receptors, which triggers a cascade of effects that help to regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanism of action of LDN, it is clear that this medication has a unique and powerful ability to modulate the immune system and provide relief for a wide range of health conditions.

So, what are some of the health issues that LDN is being researched for? Here’s a list of some of the most promising areas of research:

1. Autoimmune diseases : Several studies have shown that LDN may be effective in reducing symptoms of autoimmune diseases, such as Hashimoto’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and Crohn’s disease. LDN is believed to work by modulating the immune system, which can help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in these conditions.

2. Chronic pain : LDN has been studied for its potential to reduce chronic pain, such as fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain, and chronic regional pain syndrome. In one study, LDN was found to significantly reduce pain and improve the quality of life in patients with fibromyalgia.

3. Cancer : LDN is also being researched for its potential to help treat cancer. While more research is needed, studies have shown that LDN may be able to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, as well as stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells.

4. Mental health : There is also some evidence to suggest that LDN may be helpful in treating certain mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. LDN is believed to work by increasing the production of natural mood-boosting chemicals, such as endorphins and dopamine.

5. Other conditions : LDN is also being researched for its potential to treat other conditions, such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

While the research on LDN is still in its early stages, the results so far are promising. However, it’s important to note that LDN is not a miracle cure and may not work for everyone. As with any medication, LDN can also have side effects, although these are generally mild and include things like insomnia, vivid dreams, and headaches.

How can a functional medicine specialist help me with low dose naltrexone therapy?

Functional medicine can add great value to your overall health by getting to the root of your complaints in a holistic and integrated manner. If you are looking for a functional medicine specialist in Houston to explore low dose naltrexone therapy, then My Pure MD is the perfect clinic for you. We take great care in identifying appropriate candidates for this treatment and develop a comprehensive, customized treatment plan for each patient. Book a free discovery call with us at 346-220-0201.