LDN

Has anyone ever been treated with LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone) and found out it did not work for them?  

Stargazer

[doni54]

Hi Star,

I can't answer that question, because I have never tried the LDN. Elaine (monotreme) is a good authority on this as Craig took the LDN for awhile.  Don't remember if he still takes it or not, though.

I've read a few articles about it, but that's about the limit of my knowledge.  I'm sure, like with many other meds and supplements, it works differently for each person.

Hopefully Elaine will see this and give you an idea of Craig's experience with this.

doni

[monotreme]

My husband has taken LDN since March 2008.  He has gotten new symptoms and has worsened over this time period.  He also takes Copaxone.  He said that without the LDN, he is more tired and more sad.  He takes 3 mg each night at bed time.

So although his disease has progressed, he says he feels better emotionally on the LDN.

Elaine

[BOK2Bjan]

Hi - I haven't taken LDN, but was looking into it a great deal to treat my Systemic Sclerosis.  This is before I even knew I had ms (though I had symptoms).  It is supposed to work for any disease with an altered immune system.  The theory being - the conditions aren't caused by an overactive immune system, but rather a defective one.  The body's own endorphins are instrumental in both our mood and our immune system.  The research (very interesting and good science by the way - from what I read anyway) shows that when the endorphine levels are raised, the immune system is also increased, thus fighting the disease.  The LDN blocks the production of endorphins at a critical point (middle of the night) when they're being produced for the next day.  The body then tries to make up for it and the next day, there is an increase in production - levels rise - immune system improves.  It was discovered by Dr. Bihari accidentally when treating heroin addicts.  I take narcotics and would have to withdraw first - a massive undertaking.  When considering it, I was dx with ms (ironic!)  Elaine - very interesting that your husband's mood is better (makes sense) but that the disease marches on.  That's discouraging for it as a miracle cure, but great that he feels better.  I plan to keep my eye on it and continue to research the data.  I'm glad it was brought up.  Blessings, Jan

[monotreme]

I think that the problem with LDN is that repairing the immune system does not repair the axon destruction.  I have a friend who is in a wheelchair from MS and she actually went off Tysabri and on to LDN.  She hoped it would get her out of a wheelchair.  But it has not.  What it has done is similar to what it has done for Craig.  Made her feel better emotionally.  

I have read about LDN and how it can improve autoimmune diseases, and autoimmune thyroid disease in particular.

Elaine

[Todd36]

Dr. Bruce Cree at UCSF was doing clinical trials on LDN for MS, and I think the results were going to be published soon.  I'd reach out to him to get his take on it.  If you find out, please post it.

http://www.ucsfhealth.org/adult/cgi-bin/prd.cgi?action=DISPLAYDOCTOR&doctorid=13930