Low dose naltrexone is a smaller amount of the medicine naltrexone. It’s usually around 4.5 mg per day, which is much less than the standard dose used to treat opioid addiction. This lower dose is often used to help with chronic conditions like autoimmune disorders, chronic pain, and multiple sclerosis.
The scientific studies and clinical trials investigating the connection between low dose naltrexone (LDN) and weight gain reveal mixed results. Some studies suggest that LDN, particularly when combined with other medications like bupropion, may help reduce weight gain associated with antipsychotic medications. For instance, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study found that LDN (25 mg/day) led to significant weight loss in overweight women with schizophrenia compared to a placebo group.
However, other studies indicate that the effects of LDN on weight gain are not consistent across all populations and conditions.
A systematic review of the safety and efficacy of naltrexone for weight loss in adult patients found that while naltrexone/bupropion treatment was generally effective for weight loss, the results varied among different studies and patient groups.
In summary, while there is some evidence to suggest that LDN may help reduce weight gain in certain populations, particularly those on antipsychotic medications, the overall findings are not conclusive, and more research is needed to establish a clear connection.
LDN is used to treat chronic conditions such as autoimmune disorders, chronic pain, and multiple sclerosis.
Research on its connection to weight gain has yielded mixed results. Some studies suggest that LDN may help reduce weight gain associated with antipsychotic medications, particularly when combined with other medications like bupropion.
However, other studies indicate inconsistent effects across different populations and conditions.
A systematic review of naltrexone for weight loss found varying results among studies and patient groups. While there is some evidence to suggest LDN may help reduce weight gain in certain populations, the overall findings are not conclusive.
Therefore, more research is needed to establish a clear connection between low dose naltrexone and weight gain.