LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone)
Rock Ridge Pharmacy: Compounding Experts for your Path to Better Health
Mechanism of Action
Endorphin Release: LDN increases the secretion of endorphins, which are responsible for pain relief and inducing feelings of well-being.
Opioid Growth Factor (OGF): LDN increases the release of OGF, which helps reduce inflammation, autoimmune responses, and tumor cell growth.
Immune Modulation: LDN reduces inflammatory immune cell signaling, particularly via Toll-like Receptor-4, which can help alleviate autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
Glial Cell Regulation: LDN calms glial cells in the nervous system, reducing inflammation of nerves and promoting nerve protection.
Dopamine Increase: LDN increases dopamine levels, which can enhance mood, energy, and cognitive function.
Why is LDN only available as a compounded medication?
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) is typically available only as a compounded medication because naltrexone, the active ingredient, is commercially manufactured in higher doses, typically as 50 mg tablets. However, LDN therapy requires much lower doses, usually ranging from 0.5 mg to 4.5 mg per day.
Dose Customization: Compounding allows for precise dosing tailored to individual needs, often between 0.5 and 4.5mg.
Formulation Flexibility: Compounded LDN can be made into capsules, oral suspensions, or creams to suit patient preferences and enhance adherence.
Quality Assurance: Compounding pharmacies use high-quality, FDA-approved ingredients to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Conditions LDN May Benefit
Chronic pain
Autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto’s, Graves’ disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, psoriasis, and lupus
Neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, and restless leg syndrome (RLS)
Dermatological conditions like eczema
Gastrointestinal disorders including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and celiac disease
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Cancer (though more research is needed)
Inflammation in general
Dosing and Dosing with Titration
LDN therapy typically starts at low doses, around 0.5 mg to 1 mg, and is titrated up based on individual response and sensitivity to medication.
Traditional dosing involves starting at 1.5 mg at bedtime for one week, then increasing to 3 mg for another week, and finally settling at 4.5 mg at bedtime thereafter. However, dosing protocols may vary based on individual response.
LDN Titration Kit using Oral Capsules LDN Titration Kit using Oral Suspension LDN Titration Kit for Seniors or Sensitive Patients
Side Effects
Side effects of LDN are generally minimal and may include vivid dreams, headaches, gastrointestinal upset, and increased sensitivity to thyroid medications.
Most side effects are mild and transient, often resolving within the first few days of therapy or with dose adjustments.
Response Time:
Response time to LDN therapy varies widely among individuals and medical conditions. Some patients may experience significant improvement within the first two months, but experts suggest that maximum benefits may require up to eight months of therapy.
Narcotics & Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
Using Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) with opioid medications is not recommended due to potential interactions:
Blocking Effect: LDN blocks opioid receptors, which can reduce or eliminate the pain-relieving effects of opioids.
Withdrawal Risk: If dependent on opioids, a patient might experience withdrawal symptoms when starting LDN, as it blocks the receptors opioids act on.
Clinical Precautions: Healthcare providers should assess opioid use and possibly reduce opioid dosages gradually before starting LDN to avoid withdrawal issues.
Specialist Collaboration: Working with pain management specialists can help manage the transition from opioids to LDN, ensuring safety and efficacy.
Pharmacist's Role:
Pharmacists play a crucial role in LDN therapy by providing dosing consultation to prescribers, counseling patients on medication use, assisting with titration schedules, and serving as a resource for information and support throughout the treatment process.
Ways to Send In Prescriptions:
1. Fax
Write a prescription on a prescription pad and fax over to 201-444-2698.
2. E-Scribe
E-Rx (E-scribe) to “Rock Ridge Pharmacy”
Make sure our address is 191 Rock Rd, Glen Rock, NJ 07452.
3. Call
Call in your prescription to 201-444-4190.
4. Fill Out Pre-made Rx Order Forms from Rock Ridge Pharmacy
Fill out Rock Ridge Pharmacy Rx Order Forms and Fax »
Access to these Rx Forms is exclusively for physicians. Click here to request access.
5. Telemedicine
Rock Ridge Pharmacy, in partnership with Physician 360, offers on-demand telemedicine consultations for LDN and other conditions. Learn more below.
How To Start:
Follow the steps below to get started and to sign up for a consultation!
- Click Start Now (Green Button Above)
- Create an account and log in at visit.physician360.co [start now button above]. Take a brief questionnaire about your symptoms or reason you would like to speak to a provider.
- Within approximately 5-10 minutes, connect with a medical professional on your phone or your computer [if an RX is warranted, the RX will be sent to Rock Ridge Pharmacy right after the call]
- If needed, a prescription will be electronically sent to our team at Rock Ridge Pharmacy.
Rock Ridge Pharmacy is located at 191 Rock Rd, Glen Rock NJ, 07452
We are dedicated to offering specialized Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) services tailored to your individual needs. Our team of knowledgeable pharmacists is committed to providing comprehensive support and guidance throughout your LDN journey. Whether you're seeking LDN for its therapeutic benefits in managing various conditions or exploring its potential off-label uses, we are here to assist you every step of the way.
FAQ For LDN
What is Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)? ➤
LDN is a medication originally designed to treat opioid addiction at higher doses. At low doses, typically between 0.5 mg to 4.5 mg, it is used for its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in autoimmune disorders, chronic pain management, and some neurological conditions.
How does LDN work? ➤
LDN works by modulating the immune system and reducing inflammation through the temporary blockage of opioid receptors, which increases the production of endorphins and enkephalins—natural painkillers and mood enhancers.
Who might benefit from LDN? ➤
Patients with various conditions including multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, and certain mental health issues like depression may benefit from LDN.
How is LDN dosed and administered? ➤
Treatment starts with a low dose, often 0.5 mg, gradually increasing to a typical maximum of 4.5 mg daily, based on individual response and tolerance. LDN is available in various forms like capsules, oral solutions, or topical creams, customized by compounding pharmacies.
What are common side effects? ➤
Side effects may include vivid dreams, insomnia, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues, but they are generally mild and temporary. Monitoring and communication with a healthcare provider are essential for managing any adverse effects.
What should patients expect in terms of treatment response? ➤
The response varies significantly among individuals. Some may notice improvements within a few weeks, while others might need up to six months to evaluate the full benefits of LDN.
Can LDN be used with opioid medications? ➤
LDN should not be used concurrently with opioid pain relievers due to its opioid-blocking effects, which can lead to withdrawal symptoms and ineffective pain management.
What considerations should be made before starting LDN? ➤
Patients should discuss their full medical history, including any other medications, with their healthcare provider. It's important to consider potential interactions and the patient’s specific health conditions.
How do healthcare providers monitor LDN treatment? ➤
Providers typically monitor treatment through regular follow-ups, assessing symptom relief and side effects. In some cases, blood tests may be conducted to monitor specific health markers.
What research supports the use of LDN? ➤
While growing interest and anecdotal evidence suggest benefits, more extensive clinical trials are needed to fully establish LDN’s efficacy across various conditions.
Blogs
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Low-Dose Naltrexone: Unveiling the Healing Potential Beyond Addiction
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Low-Dose Naltrexone: Empowering Patients with Hope and Healing
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The Rising Star: Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) in Modern Medicine
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Exploring the Potential of Low-Dose Naltrexone: A Promising Treatment Approach
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The Renaissance of Low-Dose Naltrexone: A Paradigm Shift in Healthcare
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Unveiling the Enigmatic Potential of Low-Dose Naltrexone: A Beacon of Hope in Medical Innovation