Naltrexone is a pure opiate antagonist that has been used for years as part of heroin withdrawal programs. When given to humans in low doses, naltrexone increases the body's production of endorphins. Endorphins are hormones, produced by the body, which help maintain and regulate the immune system.

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), and other immune disorders, have lower measured levels of endorphins than healthy patients. It is thought that the lower levels of endorphins cause some immune systems cells to malfunction and begin attacking the body's nervous system. In MS patients, the myelin that insulates nerve fibers is attacked leading to the development of scars (or plaque) in the brain and spinal cord and corresponding neuropathic symptoms.

Currently, research in the United States is examining the ability of low dose naltrexone (LDN) to stimulate the bodys production of endorphins, which may help alleviate some symptoms that MS patients experience. By helping to bolster the immune system, low dose naltrexone is also showing encouraging results in other diseases such as certain types of cancer and HIV infection.

LDN has also been used to treat other conditions including the following:

• Specific cancers
• Crohns disease
• Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia

LDN dosing typically ranges from 2mg to 4.5mg.  Belmar Pharmacy can dispense LDN in either immediate release tablets or capsules.  Other strengths are available based upon orders from your physician.

Additional information about LDN can be found at

www.lowdosenaltrexone.org