At low doses, naltrexone has been shown to have antagonistic activity at both opioid receptors and toll-like receptors in the human body. The antagonistic activity of low dose naltrexone at these receptors has been linked to the release of endogenous peptides called endorphins, impacting pain and inflammation in the body.


Low dose naltrexone (LDN) has the potential to be utilized for a wide variety of medical conditions. LDN has been used in some patients for management of chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia, reducing the pain and inflammation associated with these conditions. LDN has also been used for possible benefits in treating symptoms of depression, immune-related disorders, mast cell activation syndrome and POTS.

Some medical experts still consider the use of daily LDN for chronic conditions experimental. Although there is a preponderance of anecdotal evidence supporting the use of LDN for a variety of different chronic conditions, some prescribers would feel more comfortable prescribing LDN if more thorough medical research was available.