Low dose Naltrexone as a treatment for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a persistent set of disorders affecting numerous body functions. It is generally characterized by severe weakness and post-exertion malaise, including extensive pain, immune dysfunction, and autonomic and neurocognitive symptoms. Any kind of physical or mental activity can further aggravate the condition while taking breaks and placing the body in resting mode does not help. 

General symptoms of CFS

CFS/ME is a long-standing disorder with multiple symptoms which can affect your everyday life, such as 

1. Extreme weakness

2. Difficulty performing routine tasks

3. Not getting relaxed and energetic even after resting or sleeping

4. Prolong recovery after physical exertion

5. Unable to think, memorize or concentrate properly

Reason Behind CFS

It is suggested by the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) that there is no specific reason or cause behind chronic fatigue syndrome; instead, different factors can contribute to the development of the condition. So far, researchers have underlined the following as contributing elements:

1. Hormonal imbalance

2. Stress

3. Viruses

4. Compromised immune system

The occurrence rate for CFS is around 15–26 per 100,000 persons per annum. The lack of funding for research and specialized treatments has let people to suffer from this condition. The disability fraction is higher, making it almost impossible for the patient to return to a fully recovered state. However, Harbor Compounding Pharmacy has stepped forward with its advanced techniques and treatment to play its role in the well-being of people.

Low Dose Naltrexone As A Treatment Of Choice For CFS

Low Dose Naltrexone, a synthetic drug popular for its anti-opioid action, is also getting famous for its extensive usage and mode of action at opioid and non-opioid receptors. At present, Naltrexone is a licensed drug that can be used to treat alcoholism and opioid addiction at a specific dose of 50 mg. But it is also an emerging choice of medicine that can be utilized as an immune modulator, and for suppressing tumor growths, specifically at lower doses of around 3-4.5 mg. These low doses of Naltrexone are depicted as low-dose Naltrexone or LDN.

In many countries, Naltrexone is an extra-label treatment, specifically in low doses for problems like chronic immune-modulated disorders. So far, minimum clinical trials have been performed for the efficacy of this drug. However, ldn has become a potential treatment option for different medical conditions such as Crohn's disease, fibromyalgia, and Gulf War Illness. Similarly, it has been reported as a drug of choice in chronic fatigue syndrome and the associated symptoms of profound chronic fatigue, where it has shown some significant effects, from complete amelioration to a reduction in some symptoms. The available treatment doses vary between 4 to 12 mg. However, there is a need for intensive clinical trials to investigate further the latent use of Naltrexone with the growing population of CFS; we are still not geared up with licensed drugs.

Mode Of Action

Naltrexone is a dose-dependent agent. At low doses ranging between 1-5mg, it performs as a glial modulator, where it works as Toll-like receptor four and acts as an antagonist. Furthermore, the immune system can be modulated with the aid of LDN by changing the body's endorphin levels. The body's inflammatory responses can be decreased by increasing endorphin levels, which is how LDN works. However, researchers still need to know the exact mode of action for LDN so that it can be more understandable for us how LDN performs its role in chronic fatigue syndrome.

Literature Review

CFS/ME is a medical condition where the physical and cognitive functions of the body are affected badly. Unfortunately, so far, no known medical treatment is available. However, ongoing medical research has supported the use of LDN, where the safety and effectiveness of LDN have been studied in clinical setups. According to a report, 73.9% of patients responded positively to treatment with LDN. Alertness and activeness were reported by most of the patients. Some of them also reported better physical and cognitive outcomes. Pain and fever relief was also reported by patients. So far, no rigorous or long-term side effects have been reported. The treatment response frequency was high, along with a good safety window. These demonstrative clinical studies are sources of hope for patients with severe symptoms when they are helpless and in pain. 

Aiding Treatments

As Chronic Fatigue Syndrome comes along with many linked tribulations. These problems can also be addressed through effective therapies such as:

1. Counseling: With proper counseling sessions and stress-managing techniques, CFS symptoms become manageable.

2. Addressing sleep problems: If your sleep cycle is disturbed, it will worsen the issues related to CFS. Your physician may assist you in adjusting your bedtime routine or caffeine intake.

3. Exercise: To keep yourself fit and active, you need a healthy diet plan and regular exercise. However, in CFS, exercise sessions may put you in extreme pain and fever. Your therapist might be able to help you with your workout routine.

LDN Is An Emerging Choice For Fatigue, Weakness, And Compromised Immune System

Harbor Compounding Pharmacy has always taken bold yet safe initiatives where they provide treatment combinations and options that are efficacious and customized. When there is no other treatment choice, LDN can be a savior. Compounded LDN might be able to relieve you of the pain, weakness, and other issues associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. Harbor Compounding Pharmacy has its own panel of experienced doctors and clinical pharmacists whom you can consult and obtain a prescription from.