Using Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) to Treat Fibromyalgia Iowa, Missouri, Florida, Texas
- Yoon Hang "John" Kim MD
- Dec 16
- 5 min read
A Review of Mechanisms, Evidence, and Practical InsightsBy Yoon Hang Kim, MD, MPH
Dr. Yoon Hang Kim, MD, is a leading expert in Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) and a frequent presenter at the LDN Research Trust Conference. As an integrative and functional medicine physician, Dr. Kim combines evidence-based practices with innovative therapies like LDN to help patients achieve better outcomes. He is the author of a book on LDN and has written extensively about its potential to treat chronic pain and other conditions. Dr. Kim also shares his expertise through his YouTube channel and as an administrator for the LDN Support Group.
1. Introduction
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects 2–4% of people worldwide, with women being more commonly affected. It causes widespread pain, fatigue, sleep problems, and "brain fog" (difficulty concentrating). Despite its prevalence, fibromyalgia remains difficult to treat with conventional medicine.
Current medications like pregabalin, duloxetine, and milnacipran only help about 30–40% of patients and often come with side effects like weight gain, drowsiness, and cognitive issues. These challenges have led to growing interest in alternative treatments, including Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN). This article explores how LDN works, the evidence supporting its use, and practical tips for incorporating it into fibromyalgia care.
2. What is Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)?
2.1 What Makes LDN Different?
Naltrexone was originally approved in the 1980s to treat opioid and alcohol addiction at doses of 50–100 mg. At these higher doses, it blocks opioid receptors to reduce cravings. However, when used in much smaller doses (0.1–4.5 mg), naltrexone works differently. It temporarily blocks opioid receptors, which can trigger the body to produce more natural pain-relieving chemicals like endorphins.
2.2 How Does LDN Work?
LDN helps in three key ways:
Reducing Inflammation: LDN calms overactive immune cells in the brain and spinal cord, reducing the release of chemicals that cause pain and inflammation.
Boosting Endorphins: By briefly blocking opioid receptors, LDN encourages the body to produce more endorphins, which can improve pain and mood.
Balancing the Immune System: LDN may help regulate immune cells, which is important since fibromyalgia may involve immune system dysfunction.
2.3 Beyond Fibromyalgia
LDN is also being studied for other conditions like multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, and chronic pain syndromes. Its safety and affordability make it an appealing option for many patients.
3. How LDN Helps with Fibromyalgia
3.1 Understanding Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is linked to "central sensitization," where the brain and spinal cord become overly sensitive to pain signals. Research also shows that inflammation in the brain may play a role. Studies using brain scans and spinal fluid tests have found higher levels of inflammatory markers in people with fibromyalgia.
3.2 How LDN Fits In
LDN addresses these issues by reducing inflammation in the brain and improving the body’s natural pain-relief systems. It also helps restore balance to the nervous system, which may explain why many patients report feeling better on LDN.
4. Research Supporting LDN for Fibromyalgia
4.1 Pilot Study (2009)
Dr. Jarred Younger’s first study on LDN for fibromyalgia showed a 30% reduction in symptoms like pain and fatigue. The treatment was well-tolerated, with no serious side effects.
4.2 Randomized Controlled Trial (2013)
In a larger study, Dr. Younger found that LDN significantly reduced pain compared to a placebo. Patients with higher levels of inflammation responded best, supporting the idea that LDN works by reducing inflammation.
4.3 Inflammatory Marker Study (2017)
Another study showed that LDN lowered levels of inflammatory chemicals in fibromyalgia patients, providing direct evidence of its anti-inflammatory effects.
4.4 Real-World Evidence
Observational studies and patient reports suggest that 50–70% of fibromyalgia patients benefit from LDN, especially those who haven’t found relief with other treatments.
5. Insights from the LDN Research Trust
The LDN Research Trust, founded in 2004, has been instrumental in raising awareness about LDN. The organization hosts conferences, shares patient success stories, and provides resources for both patients and healthcare providers. Many fibromyalgia patients describe LDN as "life-changing," and the Trust’s website offers helpful tools like prescribing guides and pharmacy directories.
6. Benefits and Safety of LDN
6.1 Why Choose LDN?
Fewer Side Effects: Unlike other fibromyalgia medications, LDN doesn’t cause weight gain, drowsiness, or sexual dysfunction.
Non-Addictive: LDN has no risk of dependency, making it a safe option for long-term use.
Affordable: Compounded LDN typically costs about $1 per pill, making it accessible for most patients.
6.2 Common Side Effects
The most common side effect is vivid dreams, which usually go away after a week or two. Other mild side effects include headaches and nausea, but these are rare.
6.3 Safety Considerations
LDN is generally safe, but it should not be used with opioid medications, as it can block their effects. Patients with liver issues should consult their doctor before starting LDN.
7. Practical Tips for Using LDN
7.1 Starting LDN
Most patients start with a low dose (0.1–0.5 mg) and gradually increase to 4.5 mg daily. It may take 4–12 weeks to see full benefits, so patience is key.
7.2 Where to Get LDN
LDN must be prescribed by a doctor and prepared by a compounding pharmacy. The LDN Research Trust provides a directory of trusted pharmacies.
7.3 Working with Your Doctor
It’s important to work with a healthcare provider who understands LDN. They can help adjust your dose and monitor your progress.
8. Conclusion
Low-Dose Naltrexone offers new hope for fibromyalgia patients. By targeting inflammation, pain sensitivity, and the body’s natural pain-relief systems, LDN addresses the root causes of fibromyalgia. It’s safe, affordable, and effective for many patients. While more research is needed, LDN is already changing lives and deserves a place in the fibromyalgia treatment toolkit.
Link to Academic Version of the Blog (much more detailed and it also has references!
Meet Dr. Kim
At Direct Integrative Care, Dr. Kim is dedicated to guiding you on your path to wellness through a deeply personalized and supportive approach. We focus on integrative medicine, looking beyond symptoms to uncover the root causes of chronic conditions and develop a treatment plan tailored specifically to your unique health journey. By combining compassionate care with innovative therapies, our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to achieve lasting health. We invite you to explore our website to learn more about how our patient-centered practice can help you find balance and vitality.
Yoon Hang Kim MD
Integrative & Functional Medicine Physician
Virtual Practice Serving IA, IL, MO, FL, GA, and TX
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