Low-dose naltrexone for disease prevention and quality of life

Med Hypotheses. 2009 Mar;72(3):333-7. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2008.06.048. Epub 2008 Nov 28.

Abstract

The use of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) for the treatment and prophylaxis of various bodily disorders is discussed. Accumulating evidence suggests that LDN can promote health supporting immune-modulation which may reduce various oncogenic and inflammatory autoimmune processes. Since LDN can upregulate endogenous opioid activity, it may also have a role in promoting stress resilience, exercise, social bonding, and emotional well-being, as well as amelioration of psychiatric problems such a autism and depression. It is proposed that LDN can be used effectively as a buffer for a large variety of bodily and mental ailments through its ability to beneficially modulate both the immune system and the brain neurochemistries that regulate positive affect.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cytokines / immunology*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / immunology*
  • Inflammation / prevention & control*
  • Models, Immunological
  • Naltrexone / administration & dosage*
  • Narcotic Antagonists / administration & dosage
  • Neoplasms / immunology*
  • Neoplasms / prevention & control*
  • Quality of Life*

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • Narcotic Antagonists
  • Naltrexone