A to Z of MS Low dose naltrexone (LDN)
Naltrexone (Nalorex) is a drug used to treat people with addictions. Following anecdotal reports that low doses help the symptoms of people with a wide range of conditions, there have been a few initial studies of LDN and MS.
A study of 40 people with primary progressive MS in Milan found LDN reduced spasticity, increased pain and had no effect on fatigue, depression or quality of life.
A study of 80 people in San Francisco showed LDN improved quality of life measures but didn't find any effect on symptoms such as fatigue, bowel and bladder control, sexual satisfaction, and visual function.
How LDN works
It is thought that LDN works by encouraging the body to produce endorphins and by stimulating the immune system - an approach that differs from most MS treatments, which attempt to reduce immune activity.
How LDN is given
LDN is taken orally either as capsules or in a liquid form.
Side effects and contraindications of LDN
The full strength drug should not be used in conjunction with an opioid-containing medication or with people with hepatitis or liver problems. The low dose treatment used in MS is less than a tenth of full dose and the trials that have taken place report that LDN was safe and well-tolerated.
Because LDN stimulates the immune system, it should not be taken by people also taking one of the beta interferon drugs or other drugs that reduce immune system activity such as steroids.
Petition
There is currently an online petition asking the government to fund research into LDN through the NHS. The petition closes on 23 November 2009.