Can Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) Treat Depression?

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All forms of depression, especially in those who are unresponsive to traditional antidepressant medication, could potentially benefit from low-dose naltrexone (LDN) treatment. If you have tried conventional therapies for depression and have seen no improvement, your care provider could refer you to an experienced wellness doctor to assess whether you are a candidate for LDN.

Since LDN is highly accepted, safe, and affordable, medical professionals are showing an increased interest in its use for various medical disorders, including depression. In addition, numerous significant clinical studies suggest that LDN shows promise for treating recurring or challenging mental illnesses. Contact Dr. Jacobson of Greenwich Hormones today to learn more about if low-dose naltrexone (LDN) can treat depression.

What Is Low-Dose Naltrexone?

The Food and Drug Administration initially gave the green light to naltrexone in 1984 to treat opiate addiction. Subsequent research revealed that even one-tenth of the typical amount of naltrexone, which came to be known as low-dose naltrexone, may have beneficial effects on the immune system by reducing inflammation. LDN triggers the production of endorphins, which relieve tension and discomfort and increase feelings of well-being and happiness.

The effects of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) have also been studied and shown to be beneficial for treating various mental health disorders, including depression. There is no evidence that LDN is addictive, and its side effects are mild. Because patients only need a small amount, it is typically very affordable.

How Can LDN Help Those Suffering from Depression?

Incorporating low-dose naltrexone (LDN) with antidepressant treatment could help reduce the intensity and symptoms of depression. LDN has shown promise as a treatment for recurrent depressive episodes. The antidepressant benefits may be due to the drug’s ability to physically modify brain chemistry.

LDN can help treat depression due to various causes, including medical, inflammatory, and mental (such as a decrease in dopamine or persistent stress). As an anti-inflammatory agent, it controls the body’s natural opioid response. However, despite continuous scientific initiatives, there is not yet sufficient clinical evidence concerning the efficacy of LDN, making its application an experimental strategy.

Potential Side Effects of LDN

LDN is a safe drug with few adverse effects. It is advised to take LDN right before bedtime.

Factors such as your gender and size, the severity of your ailment, and your medication tolerance all play a role in determining an optimal starting dose and how quickly your psychiatrist can increase the dose. The typical duration of LDN treatment for depression is two weeks, after which patients report a reduction in symptoms.

If you use LDN, you may feel sleepier or have more detailed dreams than usual. Vivid dreams were the most commonly reported side-effect of LDN usage. You may also experience an increase in anxiousness, sweating, and headaches, but these adverse effects are less typical. Remarkably, some patients report improved mental clarity and reduced anxiety and despair.

Learn More About Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) For Treating Depression Today

Have you ever wondered if low-dose naltrexone (LDN) can treat depression? If you suffer from a mental health disorder and want to learn about all of your treatment options, you should discuss LDN with Dr. Jacobson today. During a private consultation, Dr. Jacobson can answer any questions you may have about this treatment and help determine if this LDN is right for you. Call Greenwich Hormones today to get started.