If you or your loved ones are suffering from Lyme disease, then for sure you might have heard about LDN which means Low Dose Naltrexone to help the healing process.
However this is used to treat addiction of opioid, now LDN is explored as off-label to managing chronic conditions like Lyme disease.
Through this blog we will understand how LDN helps to ease the symptoms of Lyme disease and what to consider in mind before trying it.
If we talk about LDN and Lyme disease then as per the growing interest in using LSN in case of Lyme disease, it is important to seek a healthcare expert before initiating any treatment.
Here, we will learn how this works, its benefits, and how it connects into Lyme disease management.
Understanding LDN and Lyme Disease
- Starting with the definition of LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone), it's a medication to modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation in the body if it is used in a small dose.
- Not like for opioid addiction in higher dose, because LDN operates differently at low doses by temporarily blocking opioid receptors which result in increase in production of endorphin.
- This process helps in regulation of immune responses and also reduces inflammation, which makes it a good option for treating Lyme disease.
- Lyme disease is a complex medical issue which is caused by the bacteria known as Borrelia burgdorferi, associated with early signs like fatigue, joint or muscle pain, and neurological disorders.
- And if we talk about the connection of LDN and Lyme disease then it can address imbalance of the immune system and can reduce inflammation.
- Hence, according to research, LDN can decrease the level of inflammatory cytokines and increase the regulation of the immune system which can alleviate symptoms that come with Lyme disease.
Is LDN effective for all Lyme Disease symptoms?
- As per recent study from the Journal of Clinical Neuroscience, LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone) may help in alleviating pain intensity and improving patients overall quality of life by resulting in neuroprotection and reduced inflammation in the nervous system.
- Also, it has been observed that its potential to decrease neuropathic pain by Lyme disease patients.
- In case of neuroprotection, LDN manages the central nervous system by reducing cytokines and releases endorphins which leads to relief from the neurological system of Lyme disease.
- LDN’s immune modulating effect may manage to reduce symptoms (brain fog, cognitive dysfunction, and neuroinflammation) in Lyme disease by reducing inflammation in the central nervous system and the brain.
- LDN is beneficial in addressing pain relief and neuroprotection for patients of Lyme disease to treat pain and neuroinflammation.
What is the safety profile of LDN and its side effects?
According to research, LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone) is well tolerated, with the majority of patients suffering from less or minimum side effects. For example - in the study, a group of 215 patients 77% experienced no side effects during LDN treatment therapy.
However, side effects are not common but some people may experience mild symptoms, including- disturbance in sleep such as insomnia or vivid dreams, gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, and headaches.
These side effects are temporary and can be resolved when the body adjusts to the medication.
Here are some points to consider when to avoid LDN treatment:-
- Ongoing opioid use
- In the time of pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Liver dysfunction
It is recommended by healthcare experts that before starting LDN treatment therapy, a thorough examination is necessary to confirm safety for the patient.
How to start LDN Therapy for Lyme Disease?'
Starting LDN therapy needs careful consideration of dosage, monitoring during the first week, and ongoing assessment to confirm efficacy and safety.
Below are the points which describes monitoring and tracking progress:-
- Tracking of signs & symptoms - Lyme patients should maintain a diary to track symptoms, changes in pain intensity, fatigue, and sleep patterns.
- Clinical examination - Daily follow up appointments with doctors are suggested to evaluate the safe use of LDN.
- Lab test - Blood test needs to be conducted to test liver function and other parameters before using LDN therapy.
However, treatment from LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone) therapy for Lyme disease requires careful dosing, awareness of side effects, and consistent monitoring sessions.
