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Individuals who suffer from symptoms of gastrointestinal, autoimmune, dermatological and pain conditions make up 80% of the patient population. But here’s the good news: multiple studies indicate that low-dose naltrexone (LDN) may potentially help many of these conditions. Take a sneak peek at topics our Clinical Services team will discuss during the Low-Dose Naltrexone One-Day Virtual Conference on Thursday, November 21, 2024.

The Immune System — Autoimmune Conditions and the Benefits of LDN

by Catherine Henderson, PharmD, PCCA Clinical Compounding Pharmacist

LDN has long been touted for its effects in autoimmune disorders. Understanding the mechanisms of LDN action involves diving deeper into immune system function and the irregularities that occur in autoimmune disorders. We’ll explore the data related to LDN’s various mechanisms for improving disease symptomatology and quality of life, as well as review real world published studies and cases of LDN use in various autoimmune disorders.

Dermatological Inflammatory Diseases and LDN

by Nat Jones, RPh, FAPC, PCCA Clinical Compounding Pharmacist

LDN is growing in popularity in the dermatology world. It has proven to be beneficial for pruritus and inflammation due to its ability to attenuate toll-like receptors found in the skin. We’ll discuss two cases: one of a tattoo allergic reaction and one of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Tattoo reactions to the coloring agents can be intense and difficult to treat. HS is a chronic inflammatory, potentially scarring, skin disease primarily affecting apocrine gland-rich areas of the body (axillary, groin, perianal, perineal regions and abdominal folds), often mediating pain and considerable morbidity, both physical and psychological.

The Use of LDN in Veterinary Patients

by Katy Hecker, PharmD, PCCA Clinical Compounding Pharmacist

As pet owners, we lovingly share many things with our pets including treats, affection and half of the bed. Research suggests we also share similarities in physiological function, disease state manifestation and treatment modalities utilized. Join in the discussion and learn more about the science behind LDN for veterinary clinical indications including behavioral disorders, atopic dermatitis, osteoarthritis, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and more!

Perimenopause and Menopause Are Inflammatory Conditions: The Use of LDN for Hormones and Weight Loss

by Sara Hover, RPh, FAARM, PCCA Director of Clinical Services

Understanding the inflammatory processes that characterize perimenopause and menopause will shed light on how the hormonal changes contribute to weight gain and obesity. Central to this discussion is the shift in estrogen profiles — from estradiol, which possesses anti-inflammatory properties, to estrone, a pro-inflammatory estrogen that becomes predominant during menopause. This hormonal transition fosters an inflammatory state that can disrupt metabolism and promote adiposity. Additionally, the presentation will explore various options aimed at reducing inflammation and managing weight effectively. Key strategies include optimizing sleep quality, utilizing probiotics to support gut health and implementing LDN as an innovative therapeutic approach. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the biological mechanisms linking menopause to inflammation and weight gain, along with practical interventions to enhance health and well-being during this pivotal life stage.

Using LDN for Chronic Pain Conditions

by Tricia Heitman, PharmD, PCCA Clinical Compounding Pharmacist

LDN is gaining attention for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to manage pain and opioid addiction. By acting on the opioid receptors at lower doses, LDN enhances endorphin production, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with various conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia and autoimmune disorders. Many patients report significant relief from chronic pain and inflammation while taking LDN. We will discuss the appropriate doses and review the literature associated with LDN and pain.

LDN for Gut Inflammatory Disorders

by Ranel A. Larsen, PharmD, PCCA Clinical Compounding Pharmacist

LDN is emerging as a promising therapeutic option for enhancing gut health, particularly in the context of IBD and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). LDN helps to regulate immune responses, improve epithelial barrier function and reduce inflammation within the gut, all of which are critical for maintaining intestinal homeostasis. In IBD, LDN may lower disease activity and enhance quality of life, while in IBS, it can alleviate symptoms such as pain and bloating. Overall, LDN's role in improving gut health underscores its therapeutic potential to support management of complex gastrointestinal disorders.

How to Market LDN Studies

by Mark Gonzalez, PharmD, PCCA Clinical Compounding Pharmacist

Today’s compounding pharmacist wanting to effectively market LDN to practitioners and patients has access to tools that were not as available 20 years ago when LDN started to become popular. Clinical studies, therapeutic reviews and case series are now readily available to substantiate what were once only theories on the effectiveness of naltrexone in autoimmune disorders. These studies span a wide array of specialties and medical conditions. Research groups such as the LDN Research Trust, publications such as the series of three LDN books and many of the clinical presentations given on the subject of LDN all reference these studies. The pharmacist and marketer must leverage the power of this data as part of their communication to both the practitioner and the patient they are marketing to. With the additional aid of social media, positive patient stories can accompany the data from these clinical studies to make for attractive and effective marketing.

Register for the Low-Dose Naltrexone One-Day Virtual Conference today and get more details — plus more information — on the potentials of LDN. We look forward to additional discussions and answering your questions!

These statements are provided for educational purposes only. They have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and are not to be interpreted as a promise, guarantee or claim of therapeutic efficacy or safety. The information contained herein is not intended to replace or substitute for conventional medical care or encourage its abandonment.



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