Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
Also known as Low Dose Naltrexone
Half-life
~4 hours
What is Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)?
Micro-dose opioid antagonist that upregulates endorphins and modulates immunity. Used off-label for autoimmune.
How Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) works
Transient opioid receptor blockade may upregulate endogenous endorphin tone and dampen microglial inflammatory signaling.
Benefits & uses
Common uses: Autoimmune conditions, inflammation, fibromyalgia, Crohn's, MS, mood enhancement.
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) dosage
Protokol doesn't recommend doses for prescription or controlled compounds. Any figures below are reference or observational reports — dosing should be set with a qualified clinician.
- Reference range
- Off-label ~1.5–4.5 mg daily (compounded — 1/10 the standard 50 mg dose); doctor-directedClinical or reference range, not a personal recommendation.
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) half-life
~4 hours (naltrexone), metabolite longer
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) side effects
Vivid dreams initially. Very safe at low doses. Do not combine with opioids.
- Vivid dreams
- Initial insomnia
- Cannot combine with opioid analgesics
- Vivid dreams / sleep disturbance (common early)
- Headache
- Generally well tolerated at low dose
Warnings & monitoring
- Prescription medication (compounded) — requires a doctor. Do NOT use with opioids (it blocks them / precipitates withdrawal). Evidence is promising but limited.
Track Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) in Protokol.
Log doses, model half-lives, check interactions, and line it all up against your bloodwork. Free on iPhone and Android.
