When it comes to innovative treatments for autoimmune diseases and mental health challenges, low-dose naltrexone (LDN) is gaining recognition as a promising option. Originally developed to treat opioid addiction at higher doses, naltrexone is now being used in smaller amounts to help individuals struggling with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, and even depression and anxiety. At Thrive for Life Counseling, our licensed therapists work with clients experiencing anxiety, ADHD, depression, addiction, and autoimmune-related mental health concerns. In this blog, we’ll explore what low-dose naltrexone is, how it helps individuals with autoimmune diseases, its mental health benefits, and how standard doses of naltrexone are used in addiction treatment.

What is Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is a medication that was originally approved by the FDA to treat opioid and alcohol dependence. It works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain, reducing cravings and preventing the euphoric effects of substances like heroin and alcohol. At standard doses (typically 50mg or higher), it is prescribed to individuals recovering from opioid addiction, alcoholism, and nicotine dependence. However, in much smaller doses—typically between 1.5mg and 4.5mg—naltrexone has shown promise in addressing chronic conditions related to inflammation, immune function, and mental health.

Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) for Autoimmune Disease

LDN is increasingly being studied for its potential to modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. Individuals with autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis have reported significant symptom relief with LDN. Research suggests that LDN works by temporarily blocking opioid receptors, which in turn prompts the body to increase its production of endorphins—natural chemicals that promote healing, reduce inflammation, and regulate immune function. Because autoimmune diseases are often characterized by excessive inflammation and an overactive immune response, LDN may help restore balance and improve overall well-being.

How LDN Supports Mental Health

Mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD are often linked to underlying inflammation and neurotransmitter imbalances. By increasing endorphin levels and reducing inflammation, LDN has been found to improve mood, reduce anxiety symptoms, and even enhance cognitive function. Individuals with depression and treatment-resistant conditions may benefit from LDN as an adjunct therapy to counseling and traditional psychiatric medications. Some research suggests that LDN’s impact on the immune system and nervous system regulation may also be beneficial for individuals experiencing chronic stress and trauma-related conditions.

Naltrexone in Addiction Treatment

At higher doses, naltrexone remains a vital tool in addiction recovery. It is frequently prescribed to individuals recovering from opioid use disorder and alcoholism, as it blocks the brain’s reward response to these substances. For people struggling with addiction, incorporating naltrexone into a comprehensive treatment plan that includes virtual therapy and counseling can significantly improve recovery outcomes. 

Guanfacine and Its Role in Mental Health Treatment

In conjunction with low dose naltrexone, guanfacine can be a powerful addition to further boost mental health. Guanfacine is a medication primarily used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and high blood pressure. It works by stimulating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brain, leading to reduced nerve signal transmission and a calming effect on the nervous system. This mechanism helps improve focus, impulse control, and emotional regulation in individuals with ADHD. When used in conjunction with low-dose naltrexone, guanfacine may provide complementary benefits, particularly for individuals managing ADHD alongside autoimmune or mental health conditions. While LDN helps regulate immune response and reduce inflammation, guanfacine can aid in balancing neurotransmitter activity and reducing hyperactivity or anxiety symptoms, making this combination a potential option for comprehensive mental health care.

Conclusion

Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) is an exciting development in the fields of autoimmune disease treatment and mental health care. With its ability to reduce inflammation, regulate the immune system, and support neurotransmitter balance, LDN offers hope for individuals facing conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, and chronic pain. Meanwhile, at higher doses, naltrexone continues to be a powerful aid in addiction recovery for those struggling with alcoholism, nicotine dependence, and opioid addiction.

If you or a loved one are seeking support for mental health concerns, autoimmune-related stress, or addiction, Thrive for Life Counseling is here to help. Our licensed therapists provide 100% virtual therapy via video or phone for clients in Indiana, Illinois, Florida, and New Jersey. We accept most major insurance plans, making high-quality mental health care accessible. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward healing!

Citations:

1. Journal of Translational Medicine - Low-dose naltrexone and its impact on autoimmune diseases (sciencedirect.com)

2. National Library of Medicine - LDN for pain reduction and inflammatory modulation in fibromyalgia (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

3. Yale School of Medicine - Mechanism of guanfacine in ADHD treatment (medicine.yale.edu)

4. Dove Press - Guanfacine’s role in strengthening prefrontal cortex function in ADHD patients (dovepress.com)

5. Pharmacy Times - Naltrexone’s FDA approval for addiction treatment (pharmacytimes.com)