- Low dose naltrexone (LDN) may help reset your body's weight set point by modulating the brain's reward system, making it easier to keep weight off after you lose it.
- By blocking opioid receptors, naltrexone reduces cravings for high-fat and high-sugar foods, which helps you maintain a healthy diet long-term without relying on willpower alone.
- LDN can support thyroid function by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system, which is especially useful if you have Hashimoto's or other autoimmune thyroid conditions.
- Naltrexone may improve insulin sensitivity through its anti-inflammatory effects, with one study showing a 1.5 to 2.5% drop in Hgb A1c in diabetics over the course of a year.
- If you struggle to keep weight off despite repeated attempts or have a known thyroid condition, LDN is worth discussing with your doctor as an add-on to diet, exercise, and other treatments.
Naltrexone, especially in low doses, has the potential to help you lose weight.
This doesn’t mean it’s a miracle weight loss medication.
In fact, it’s far from it.
But it does have some interesting uses and may be beneficial, especially for people who have not had success losing weight and keeping it off.
Here’s how it works:
Low Dose Naltrexone and Weight Loss
But first, if you haven’t heard about naltrexone before, here’s what you need to know:
Naltrexone was created as an opioid agonist (1) and was originally designed to treat alcohol dependence.
But doctors later found that when used in smaller doses, it has some very interesting benefits that make it useful for treating conditions like chronic pain, autoimmune disease, and even metabolic damage and weight loss resistance.
And it’s those last two that I want to focus on today.
How and why it helps with weight loss is not completely understood but we do know that it works.
Which is why you’ll find it in FDA-approved medications like Contrave.
But it’s important to note that the FDA has not approved naltrexone by itself for weight loss, only the combination of medications found in Contrave.
But that doesn’t mean that taking naltrexone by itself can’t or won’t help.
Based on available research and my own personal experience with this medication, here’s how it probably works:
#1. It Helps Reset Your Body Set Point
Most people are completely unaware of the simple concept known as the body set point (2).
But when it comes to losing weight and keeping it off, few things are more important or more predictive of your ability to stay lean.
This set point functions as an internal unconscious thermostat for your weight.
Through a combination of hormones, metabolism, and appetite signals, your body regulates your weight in a very tight range.
The only problem with this is that you really don’t have any conscious control over it.
So if your body has set your weight to a higher level than you want it to be, you’re going to have to fight against these systems to normalize and reset it.
This idea of the body set point is thought to be one of the reasons that so few people are able to lose weight and keep it off (3) and why this number rests at about 1%.
And, unfortunately, very few things can impact this measure but naltrexone may be one of those.
The reason for this is multifold but it likely has something to do with its ability to impact the reward system of eating in your brain (4) as well as its impact on metabolic hormones.
And I think this is where the utility of naltrexone for weight loss really comes into play.
Not so much as a direct weight loss medication, because there are way better options available, including GLP-1 agonists.
But because of its impact to make your weight loss “sticky”.
Because losing weight is often less about forcing fat loss and more about keeping it off.
Which brings us to point #2:
#2. It Helps Regulate Appetite
More than regulating appetite, it modulates the pleasure-reward system associated with eating in your brain.
And this is more important than you may realize. Here’s why:
One of the best predictors for long-term weight loss is your ability to consistently eat healthy. Not just for a few weeks, mind you, but for months and months on end.
And this is really only possible when you have control over your appetite.
This is one reason I’m not a huge fan of any low-calorie sweeteners, even natural ones.
Because even though they contain few calories, they still trigger that pleasure-reward system in your brain when you consume them.
These powerful signals make it almost impossible to eat healthy for long periods of time.
But because naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in the brain, it blunts this reward response system which reduces cravings for some of the most pleasure-inducing foods (think high-fat, high-sugar foods).
The net result is that it’s easier for you to maintain a healthy diet and, therefore, your weight.
Again, this doesn’t directly cause weight loss per-se, but it absolutely makes losing weight and keeping it off much easier.
#4. It Improves Thyroid Function
Thyroid hormone is one of the primary regulators of metabolism and if you want to effortlessly lose weight, you want this hormone system in tip-top shape.
For a while, it was a running joke that people would blame their thyroid on their weight.
The reality is that this may be more true than most people realize.
Thyroid dysfunction is on the rise and currently impacts up to 20% of the population, which is no small number by itself.
But if you consider the fact that obesity negatively impacts thyroid function, it’s certainly fair to say that many obese people have problems with their thyroid even if their thyroid wasn’t the source of their weight gain originally.
Whether your thyroid was the original cause of your weight gain or just a casualty, naltrexone may be part of the solution.
Research has shown that low doses of naltrexone may have a positive impact on the immune system which can protect the thyroid gland from damage.
This applies to people with existing thyroid conditions, like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, but also to those without thyroid problems.
This is because generalized inflammation has a negative impact on thyroid hormone conversion (5) and leads to low thyroid hormone levels.
On top of this, naltrexone appears to have some impact on the hypothalamus which ultimately regulates thyroid function.
I wouldn’t say naltrexone is a thyroid booster, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to improve the hormone that is primarily responsible for your metabolism if you are trying to lose weight.
#5. It Improves Insulin Sensitivity
Insulin, of course, is the hormone that is responsible for driving your body to store energy and create fat.
The more insulin you have in circulation, and the more resistant your cells are to it, the harder it will be for you to burn fat and lose weight.
Naltrexone has shown promise as something that may help your body become more sensitive to insulin.
This is for several reasons:
- The first is that it helps reduce inflammation which is often the underlying cause of insulin resistance.
- The second is through its direct impact on weight loss. Anything that helps you lose weight will help with insulin sensitivity.
- The third is through its impact on other hormones like thyroid hormone and cortisol. The more balanced these hormone systems are the more balanced your other hormones like insulin will be.
How powerful is this impact?
It’s fairly robust, as far as medications go.
One study showed that type I diabetics taking naltrexone saw a decrease in their Hgb A1c by 1.5% after 2 months and by as much as 2.5% after 1 year (6).
I don’t think this medication shines as a blood sugar-lowering medication, but if you’re someone with a Hgb A1c in the pre-diabetes range who also needs to lose weight, then it certainly can be considered.
#6. Naltrexone May Help Improve Sleep & Sleeping Patterns
The importance of sleep can’t be overstated when it comes to weight loss.
You probably already know that weight gain can cause issues with your sleep in the form of sleep apnea, but it’s also true that a lack of sleep also makes it easier for you to gain weight (7).
Not only will a lack of sleep sap your willpower (8) making it more likely for you to say no to unhealthy foods, it also negatively impacts cortisol and thyroid hormones.
And you already know that story since we just talked about it.
But this is where naltrexone may come into play:
It’s been shown to help improve sleeping patterns, specifically in those with sleep apnea.
In addition, it’s also been shown to improve sleep in patients with chronic pain syndromes.
And I can add that anecdotally, I have seen this to be the case in patients with autoimmune diseases as well.
Again, you really shouldn’t think of it as a specific sleep aid, but given its benefits on other systems in the body, if it also happens to help you get a good night’s rest then that’s all the better.
Who Should Consider Using It?
The real question is:
Should you try to get your hands on this medication?
And the answer to that is maybe.
There are two groups of people that I think benefit the most from this medication:
First and foremost are those people who feel like they have issues with their body set point.
These are people who are able to lose weight but can’t seem to keep that weight off no matter how hard they try.
This, in my opinion, is the best use case for naltrexone.
When used in this situation, you don’t want to take it as a primary weight loss medication,
But instead, one that is used in concert with other treatments like diet, exercise, hormones, and maybe other medications like GLP-1 agonists.
If you add it on top of these treatments, it should help your weight loss stick after you lose it.
The second group is those people who have known or suspected thyroid problems.
Using naltrexone in this setting is a no-brainer due to its potential to improve your thyroid and treat autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease.
You can certainly use it in other settings, these are just the people who I think will get the most benefit out of it.
But don’t make the mistake of thinking that this is a must-have. It’s not.
It’s absolutely possible to lose weight with just diet, exercise, and some simple lifestyle changes in just about every situation.
But if you are someone who has tried everything without success, then this is a potential option.
How To Get It
If you want to use it, you’ll need to get a prescription from your doctor.
Unfortunately, the standard doses that it comes in are much higher than what you’ll want so you’ll probably need to get it compounded to get it into the ideal range for weight loss.
This range is somewhere between 1.5 and 13.5mg.
You can also find naltrexone built into the medication Contrave.
You’ll probably have an easier time getting Contrave as it’s FDA-approved for weight loss compared to getting your naltrexone compounded but go with whatever works for you.
Before you jump onto medications with potentially harmful side effects, it may be worth looking into some more natural over-the-counter supplements.
Because using the right supplements can definitely make weight loss easier and more efficient.
If you want to see a list of the best available, check out this article next.
Now I want to hear from you:
Have you used Naltrexone or LDN previously?
Did it help you lose weight? Why or why not?
Leave your questions or comments below!
Scientific References
#1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8135389
#2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK592402/
#3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK221839/
#4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8314402/
#5. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4802023/
#6. https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/27/3/847/23065/Naltrexone-Improves-Blood-Glucose-Control-in-Type
#7. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3496783/
#8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4608917/
#9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27051079
#10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26054748
#11. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2829991/
#12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15277149
#13. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3548567/
#14. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3496783/
#15. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3021364/
#16. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3143473
#17. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3661907/
#18. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11367890
#19. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23594453
Hi Dr Childs
I am in great need of your help. I dont know how else to contact you but through this comment feed.
Im hoping you will have an opportunity to read this.
Im 34 yrs old 171cm tall and currently 187kg, married 11yrs and have 4 beautiful children.
As long as I can remember I have always had a problem with my weight going up and down however never to this degree.
It really hit home for me from 20-23 yrs old.
I Had fluctuated over the years and after going on contraception before my 1st child in 2006 is where it all began. I was 24 and being on contraception I still fell pregnant with our 1st child. I also gained 20kg of weight and immesnse water retention in less than
2 months of being on the pill and my Doctor had no answers, from 97kg going on the pill I was 125kg and fell pregnant. I ended up with a very troubled pregnacy had suffered Pre-Eclampsia in my pregnancy which I then suffered renal failure and delivered my bay prematurely. 6 weeks later I lost my gallbladder as it was full of stones causing me horrific pain throughout the pregnancy and post so it was removed.
2008 my 2nd child and continued weight gain even though have always been conscientious of my diet and calorie intake. Post pregnancy 140kg. 3rd child 2010 started at 171kg post pregnancy 150kg. 4th child 2015 175kg post was found to have severe underactive thyroid diagnosed hypothyroid. Positive for autoimmune hashimotos put on thyroxine for duration of pregnancy from 6weeks onward. Ultinating 50mcg/ 3 days, 100mcg 4 days. Post pregnancy got down to 150kg it was working for me during pregnancy but now 16months on… I am currently 187kg have not been monitored correctly all this time have kust stayed on the thyroxine of 100mcg until 2 months ago!
I was put on 100mcg daily for th past 16months and have now tried 3 different Endocrinologists who have not listened to me.
I Have had bloods read by GP and I continue to be told my blood levels are fine. No one has requested a full panel read of all levels including reverse T3 when I suggest this they say its bollocks that its not important. How can this be? Im being told they dont believe it’s my thyroid. Rather that its my calorie consumption.
I have suffered substantially and continue to, with many symptoms of hypothyroidism and yet am also showing normal T4 T3 levels or as I was recently told borderline so therefore I must just stay on 100mcg and basically hope for the best.
I also have a goitre nodule on the lower left guadrant of my throid gland but again have had an ultrasound to measure size 1.5 cm but the 3 endos I’ve seen so far, dont see it of great concern!
Recently I did a Glucose fasting test to see if im diabetic but that came back negative and was told I have a high level of insulin. I asked what that means and was told im basically insulin resistent! The Endo then proceeded by putting me on an 1000 calorie per day diet. I am still breastfeeding and have been suffeirng such fatigue… I have been insulted numerously by the 3 endos I have seen saying for that for me to have gotten to this size and weight, I have obviously eaten myself there! That my perception of portions must be completely off and that I need to cut down my portions and watch my intake of calories… cut out all sugar softdrinks sweets…DAH! I ahve done that for years! These itwms dont reside in my home… especially as I have 4 young children and a husband whom are all not over weight and with good reason. Its not what we eat! How HURTFUL this has been! NO ONE IS LISTENING TO ME! I know exactly what I intake I have always been very health conscious of definitely what I consume and how much this is no joke. My entire Family can support me on this also I have tried numerous methods… and at the very beginning my ultimate goal has always been to not gain futher weight, however my body does excatly that and stores my fat no matter what I do. After 3 weeks of 1000 calories daily I lost 1.5kg… My endo was unsatisfied to say the least and again insulted me saying I have to watch what I eat seriously … or I will have to have gastric banding surgery!!! Well thats the limit! Im not a person who needs this Dr Childs, I ate tuna salad for 3 weeks snacked on pear and drank water only… everyday to stick religiously as he put it to his schedule… 1.5kg and he believes I must be eating by the truck load indulging!!!! HOW WRONG HE IS! I want even hungry on this routine evem though he believes I must have cheated… what I was, was exhausted! And still am!
Something is not right with my body and No one is able to help me or is listening to me.
I keep rising in weight and fret for my life, im suffering with my mobility. I cant carry myself and be damned im not going down like this! I have lower back disc compression and cant walk long before sitting down because of carrying this weight! I want to be here for my 4 children who are 16months, 6, 8, and 10 yrs old…I have other problems too… I have been suffering pain in the liver area amd have expressed thia to to get no where. I have been bleeding from the bowel now and then also over the last couple of years… with this weight im concerned about lining myslef up with Cancer also.
I have been doing substantial reading and all the facts I find about converting t4 to t3 and acknowledging differnt methods like desiccated t3 hormone if straight thyroxine t4 isnt helping asking questions about the things I read im told its not always good to Dr.Google your symptoms… well Lord help me… as no one else seems to be!
I was told a straight No! Amour hormone affects the heart, end of story! Whether it could be helpful or not doesn’t matter! Meanwhile no endo and the 3 I have seen want to hear of it. I have been on levothyroxine for 2yrs and it has not helped me much at all but made my situation much worse and Im at a point of despair! I was told I have to go back on 100mcg of thyroxine daily after I took myself off it 2 months ago and did this just to prove it doesnt help. My bloods came back last week as fairly normal borderline so I was told, advised to go back on. But again it was just a test for FT3 FT4 and thats it! No further investigation no full panel request and the best I got was “No your not diabetic to my surprise!”
Im so tired of the lack of treatment and knowledge of my doctors here.
After reading this article about Naltrexone Im desperate to know if you can help me please.
I was supposidly seeing a well World renowned Professor of Endocrinology here in Australia…and yet all I leave his office with is 1000 cal diet, 100mg of thyroxine and an appointment to see him in 4months!… no care! And this is killing me! Emotionally, mentally, physically.
Would me going back on thyroxine be of any help? Could I do the thyroxine and naltrezone? Would that be a good combination… What else would you suggest that I do?
Please Help me Dr Childs.
Sincerely
Melissa Roberts
Hey Melissa,
Unfortunately I can’t provide medical advice to you over this forum but I can offer some guidelines:
– In order to get the kind of care and treatment you see on this blog you will most likely need to search outside of the “conventional” or “traditional” medical model. Generally all endocrinologists and primary care providers will treat you the same – based off of your TSH and with levothyroxine or T4 only medication.
– I’ve heard from other people that the general care for thyroid patients is somewhat limited in Australia though I can’t speak to this personally
– The best thing you can do is find someone who understands this approach to medicine to help guide you through the process
– On this blog there are several case studies which show before/after pictures with near complete treatment plans – you can look through these to get an idea of what will likely be required
I hope this helps get you started.
Dr. Child’s,
Will a higher dose of naltrexone work like 12.5? I just started taking that for weight loss.
Hi Christina,
Yes, it can be helpful in some people.
Hi Melissa
I understand your story and know exactly what your going through as I somewhat have a similar story of yours in which I have gone through 3 endo here in Canada which are completely useless. I got feed up and went to America to seek help from a doctor just like Dr. Childs.
What I can say is to research Metformin on treating Insulin Resistance, read the blog and book called, Stop the Thyroid Madness and read this study called “Thyroid Issues May Really Be Hypothalamic” on medpagetoday.com
I pray all the best for you!
Tora
Thanks, Tora. I’m in the same boat as you and Melissa. Right down to Hashimoto’s and no Gall Bladder. My GP is trying to help, as in she will order whatever labs I need. Still, my weight continues to creep up and all the diets in the world are not the fix. Best of luck to all and thanks for the references.
Hi Melissa , how are you going ?
Just read what you wrote on Dr Childs page on Naltrexone> I also live in aust > I relate to your symptoms.
if you still need help I can recommend someone a metabolic Dr .
just found her and really love her.
just let me know
Thanks Victoria
Hi there to all ladies suffering thyroid issues in Australia forget your GP they will never help they are not trained to nor an endocrinologist either
The only hope is a natropath that deals with female hormones
Mthfr and thyroid
Please seek help from them
This is my journey best of luck xxxx
Hi Caz,
Great advice, thanks for sharing!
I cried reading that. Sydneysider here. Try Dr Eden randwick or Dr Jason Fung.
They will believe you
Read the book Healthy Thyroid by Suzy Cohen. She explained the thyroid and what labs are needed and how to get them when your dr doesn’t want t to get them. Best book I ever read.
You can also find all of the lab tests necessary with optimal ranges here: https://www.restartmed.com/normal-thyroid-levels/
Dear Melissa,
I read your story and had to reply because 8 months ago…my story was almost EXACTLY like yours…I’m 52, 4 beautiful children, hypothyroidism, etc. It was so frustrating to me that none of the endocrinologists would listen to me at all. I am now taking armour thyroid, Naltrexone and many hormones. It has taken 8 months but I am finally feeling like my old self again. I highly highly recommend you make an appointment with Tracey Livingston, NP. She is in Valdosta, GA. If she is too far away, maybe you could call her and see who she recommends in your area. She is amazing! I feel like I am getting my life back! I talked my husband into seeing her and he has Amazing results also….We just wish we had seen her sooner! If you get this and have any questions, you can call me. Your story touched my heart because I know your frustration and aggravation…I went through doctor after doctor…..with No results until I started seeing Tracey.
Sincerely,
Bridgette Singletary 229-412-1694
Hi great story What time of day is better to take this medication
I’m on 50mg per day for weight loss and pre diabetes
Thank you
I have had fabulous results with LDN. I started taking it 18 months ago (starting at 1mg and moving up 1mg per month to the current dosage of 4.5 mg). By the time I was at 4 mg, I started losing weight, ultimately losing 55 pounds. I have also noticed that I don’t get sick as often or as severe as my friends and family. In addition, my pain in my back and my hip have reduced significantly. It truly is an amazing medication used in this way. My struggle lately, is that I have put back on 10 pounds in the last 3 months. I take a pretty high dosage of Nature Throid, but I am really struggling to keep the weight off that I lost. I am gluten free and avoid processed foods whenever possible. I feel like I am eating less and less all the time to not gain weight, which I know isn’t right. Any suggestions?
Jill
Hey Jill,
Thanks for sharing your story, I’m glad it has worked out well for you thus far. I would consider evaluating your fasting insulin levels and looking at your reverse T3 levels. Alternatively you can check out the case studies I have on my site for more info.
Thanks for the great article , so helpful would someone start out at 1 mg move up slowly or just start right up on 4.5 mg?
I generally recommend low and slow titration.
Hi Dr.Childs,
I am 44 years old and I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s 3months ago after three years of suffering not knowing what was wrong with me. I also had a nodule removed from my parathyroid a year ago, I have gained 50 pounds I am fatigued 24/7 and feel horrible. I’m just trying to find someone that can help me .. Thank you Traci
Hey Traci,
The best thing you can do is try to find someone local to help guide you through the process.
Is LDN a prescription only medication?
Hey Susan,
Yes, LDN is a prescription medication and you will need a physician to prescribe it to you (MD/DO).
Hello
I already take a high dose of Wellbutrin for depression (450mg). I stoped gaining weight , but im not loosing even on keto..
I do take sleep aids do you think if Wellbutrin hasn’t really helped me loose weight low dose naltrexone might help me ? Thanks
Hi Tom,
Possibly but I would also look into other more important factors such as your testosterone level.
I was diagnosed as being hypothyroid . Is it true that I will always have to take medication that there is no cure for hypothyroidism regardless of going gluten / dairy /free ?
Hey Maria,
Thanks for dropping by. Unfortunately the “cure” for hypothyroidism depends on what causes it to begin with. Your suggestion that going gluten free and dairy free is really only helpful if you have allergies/sensitivities to those foods and if your hypothyroidism is due to an autoimmune component. While changing your diet may be important in your case (I don’t know because I don’t have any information), it’s also possible that your decreased thyroid function may be due to something as simple as an iodine deficiency or other nutrient deficiency. In cases such as these, simply repleting the nutrient deficiency is often enough to experience significant improvement in your thyroid function.
On the other hand, if your low thyroid is due to an autoimmune component and has gone untreated for many years, then it’s possible you have some irreversible glandular damage which may necessitate long term thyroid hormone replacement.
So to answer your question: no, going gluten and dairy free, is not necessarily a “cure” for hypothyroidism.
Hello,
I am so grateful I found your site! I am literally at my wits end. I am 51, menopausal and my TSH levels are at 5.09. I have gained 50 pounds over the past 5 months. I am miserable, tired, moody, and in pain. I was given LDN one month ago. I take 3 mg’s at night could take up to 4.5 but haven’t’ yet started out on just 1.5 and moved up slowly. I was finally diagnosed with lymes disease in 2011 after battling symptoms that went misdiagnosed since 2006. I feel worse now than ever however my cystitis is better. I have gained 10 pounds on the LDN. I abused amphetamines for years and smoked cigarettes. I quit smoking 6 months ago and literally blew up. My legs hurt they are swollen and in pain. I feel like a swollen cow. Any and all suggestions on how to improve my health greatly appreciated. I am looking at doing the anti inflammatory diet. Thanks again and best regards…
Hey Lisa,
It sounds like you need a comprehensive hormone evaluation. As you suggest changing your diet if you haven’t already would also be a great place to start.
Hi – I have used LDN with fabulous success. I am currently diligently working on my complicated taxes for this year. When I am through I would be so happy to share my store on this format. I have had so many things that it has helped: insomnia and hair regrowth after AA namely.
I will wrote more after taxes are done. I am VERY excited about the prospect of this wonderful compounded drug helping others.
Jan Marie Wall
Hey Jan,
Thanks for stopping by and please do share your story when you are able to, I would love to hear it.
Hey Dr. Childs!
I’m curious as to whether there are any notable effects from taking LDN long- term? If you are patient with Hashimoto’s and begin LDN as a part of your treatment plan, while simultaneously working to improve other lifestyle factors that my be triggering the immune response and/or suppressing thyroid function, how do you know if it’s the LDN working or the lifestyle changes? Have you had any successes in helping patients change their lifestyles (while using LDN) and eventually be able to come off of it? This stuff is so exciting! Thank you for the GREAT post! 🙂
Hey Shelbi,
Yes, as long as diet and lifestyle issues are taken care of many patients can ultimately reduce/remove some of the therapies.
I am wondering how to get ldn if pharmacies dont carry it?
Hey Melissa,
You have to get it from a compounding pharmacy.
Naltrexone is available without an Rx from All Day Chemist. It’s perfectly legal to buy it from overseas. I have used it for about 8 years. The pills are 50 mg, so just dissolve in water and measure out the 3-5 mg with a syringe into some juice or water. Buy a few packs at a time to minimize the shipping charges and it keeps just fine.
Unfortunately I have not had weight loss with LDN but it keeps a chronic infection (I don’t know what it is, just something where my lymph nodes blow up every month or so) under control. I haven’t really been sick since I started using it. If I skip it for a night or two my lymph nodes start to get sore.
I also have Hashimoto’s and my antibodies did decrease after starting LDN, however this did not effect my TSH or T3 or any other thyroid lab.
I take 3 mg/night. Maybe I’ll increase to 4.5 or 5 and see if I have any weight loss 🙂
Hi Tierney,
Oversea pharmacies aren’t necessarily known for their purity. It’s entirely possible that you are getting a watered down medication which may explain why it isn’t working very well for you. It’s also possible that you are a non-responder, but it’s important to at least consider all possibilities.
If I bought 50mg pills how do I measure out 4.5mg dose. You said melt capsule in water and measure out 3 or 4.5mg in a syringe. How does that work. What amount of water to you dissolve a 50mg tablet?
My doctor prescribed Naltrexone 50 mg. to me for weight loss and instructed me to start with 1/4 pill. I still think that’s too much. I mistakingly took the whole 50 mg. Instead of 1/4. It caused me severe constant anxiety and panic attacks and restless legs and body. It lasted 5 hours of this torment. I forgot to read the bottle and took too much. But now I’m afraid to even take 25 mg. as instructed. And I also on Wellbutrin for depression and Adderall 20 mg. But my doctor knows all my medications.
Any suggestions to help me get past my fear of trying this again at the correct dosage?
Hi Mreed,
The best thing to do would be to have your doctor prescribe the correct dose through a compounding pharmacy! That’s the easiest and safest thing to do.
The Pharmacy should have cut the pills in 1/4’s for you mine did.
It’s worth asking them if they will! Otherwise, you can do it yourself with a pill cutter.
Hello!
Thank you for this article, it’s extremely helpful! I’m curious if you have any input about my situation.. I am on Welbutrin XLR 300 and was taking Topamax (mood disorder). I lost weight with Topamax, about 30lbs. But my hair started falling out, so I asked about an alternative. Doc prescribed Naltrexone 50mgs and said it would help with weight loss. I’ve been on it for 2 months and have gained 15lbs. Since finding your article, I realize I should probably be taking LDN. What would happen since I’ve been on such a high doses, would it help to drop it to 4.5me? I also have Hashimotos Disease and Graves (although thyroid function is close to normal atm and being monitored.
Hey Julie,
Gaining weight on naltrexone likely indicates some other hormone imbalance. Lowering your dose will likely not result in significant weight loss by itself.
I just started. Today is Day 3 of LDN. I have a history of HypoThyroid but haven’t had any treatments in 20 years, just yearly bloodwork that always comes back “normal” whatever that means. ~ I Went straight in at a compounded dose of 4.5mg. I am a 340 pound female. I practically had to FORCE my Dr. to prescribe this to me, I requested it based on a 9 hour documentary I watched by Dr. Izabella Wentz. I feel HAPPIER. My sleep seems deeper. When I take the dose about 9-10pm, I feel little pin prick pains shoot from knee, to wrist, to ankle, weird, all the places I have pain. When I wake up, I feel sleepy. Not the fatigue that I am used to, but genuinely sleepy/tired, like when I was a teenager. Like “just another hour please mom” kind of tired! LOL I feel less hungry already, brain fog reduced, sense of well being has increased. Strange fleeting moments of elation/laughter. (which is certainly something I am not used to experiencing) God I hope I am on the right path. I take Vit B, C, D, Probiotic, Fish Oil, Selenium, Magnesium, Ashwaganda Root and a tea called “heal all tea” that is supposed to be helping with swelling/edema/inflammation and I steer clear of processed foods and gluten. Plenty of fruits and veggies, but still love dairy. I am dying to lose weight and feel better. Any insight appreciated.
Hi Tj,
I’m glad it’s working well for you so far and thanks for sharing your story. Given your brief history it doesn’t sound like it will likely be the only thing you will need, however. Once you get into the realm of 50+ pounds overweight your hormones drive your appetite, metabolism and can make weight loss very difficult unless you address those hormone imbalances. You can find more information about my approach here: https://www.restartmed.com/hormone-mastery/
It has been a year, I am curious if you lost weight. I just started my dosage today…
Hi Dr Child’s.
I too was put on to LDN via Isabelle Weinz and have researched as much as I can. However my GP had not heard about it so could not prescribe it. I also cannot find anyone in Western Australia that does prescribe. I also cannot swallow tablets/capsules etc and am aware that Naltrexone 50mg can come as implants, is there anywhere that I can get LDN implants in Western Australia?
Kind regards
Jacqui C Perth WA
Hey Jacqui,
I am unaware of how to get LDN in Australia.
I know this is late but someone else may find this. You can compound it yourself. It’s way cheaper and almost as good as getting compounded at a pharmacy. Brown glass bottle in the fridge 50 mls of DI water and one 50mg pill will make a 1mg/ml solution. I leave it in the water for 2 hours and then shake it up before taking it. It stays good in the fridge for 2 months. Use a syringe or dropper and take it out at the desired dose. It does have a bitter taste, but it’s not as bad as some medicines I’ve tasted over the years.
I currently take 1 ml but am going to scale up to 3-4.5mg. I don’t take LDN specifically for weight loss, but that would be a nice side effect. I’m optimistic that LDN will help reset my setpoint, but I’m taking it for auto-immune so my biggest hope is that it helps with that.
Dr Ruth Cullity, Remede, Mosman Park.
I got a script from my gp but originally it was prescribed by the pain doctor at Fiona Stanley. She uses it and swears by it. I haven’t started yet. Good luck.
Dr. Childs,
Thank you for the informative article. I appreciated your insights on how Naltrexone may cause weight loss. I just began taking this medication for weight loss today. I certainly have a stubborn set point of 254 lbs. pre and post menopausal. It would be nice to lower that.
My question has to do with alcohol consumption. I cannot find and clear answer on what to be concerned about when taking this drug. I know it is also used to reduce cravings for alcoholics and opiod users. I think it blocks the high, right? So is the fear that one would keep drinking and not know how intoxicated one was? My real question is – is having one drink a problem? for the taste, e.g. wine with dinner, not for the the buzz.
Best, Laura
Hi Laura,
If weight loss is your goal it’s probably best to avoid alcohol 100% anyway as it will help reduce insulin resistance.
Hi Dr. Childs, thank you for an amazing article.
Little background for you. I’ve done a NutrEval test by Genova that has revealed several nutrient deficiencies despite taking those supplements. I’ve done a comprehensive stool analysis test by Genova as well and I have gut disbiosis. Not enough mixture of overall good bacteria. My Dr felt I have siBo (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) so I’m on xifaxan day 11. Then I’m supposed to take 2 supplements to ensure I don’t get candida again, restart probiotics and go back to Dr in a month. My fasting insulin level was 19. I have had insulin resistance since I was 22 years old and I’m now 32. My husband and I would love to have children as well, but I don’t have normal cycles not ovulate possibly bc of my insulin being so high.
My point to all of this is I’ve been wondering if LDN may be right for me?? I’m hypothyroid as well and I have the T4 to T3 conversion issues.
Hi Kristin,
In terms of medications I would generally consider this a low risk potentially high reward medication. Generally it either works or it doesn’t and most people don’t experience any negative side effects while taking it.
I have been prescribed 50 mg of naltrexone for weight loss. Is this too much? I take it in addition to 50 mg of vyvanse daily…
Hi Sb,
Not necessarily, though it is much higher than I use.
How is the proper dosage for each patient determined? And does LDN act differently than normal dosage amounts?
Here is a quick overview of my health:
-35 year old female, 170 lbs and 5’7″. 140 – 150lbs is my “set point” weight.
-severe Binge eating disorder for 10+ years. Causes anxiety and depression.
-Low egg reserve, AMH levels under 1. currently balancing hormones with standard process products.
-high testosterone levels (facial hair growth, cystic acne)
-I have one gene mutation of the MTFHR gene
-Constantly b12 deficient – supplement with Thorne Methyl Guard Plus
-Migraines 2-5x per month
I’m trying to determine what a good dosage would be for me.
I take vyvanse 50g for binge eating and wellbutrin 300mg.
So essentially i am taking contrave? how is contrave different than naltrexone. Wouldn’t you just get the added benefit from the wellbutrin?
Thank you!
Hi SB,
Low dose naltrexone is just naltrexone but at smaller doses, so there is no difference between contrave and LDN (except in absolute dosing). In regards to your situation, I have treated patients with eating disorders and they are notoriously very difficult to help lose weight.
Dr. Child’s,
I have a prescription for Low Dose Naltrexone that I have not started taking yet. I have been dealing with chronic intestinal Candida for 20 years from antibiotics and Accutane. I have read that LDN can make it worse. I was given it by my functional med doc to help Candida. What has your experience been?
l am taking 50mg of naltrexone for alcohol dependance. lt is working very well and l have not touched a drop of alcohol since l started. l do have weight issues since going through menopause and l also have hyperthyroidism and take 50 micrograms of thyroxine per day. l am finding my weight stubborn to move, however l have upped my exercise.l naturally have a low appetite which would suggest slow metabolism. l am also on 350 mg of quetiapine for bipolar 1, 2mg of clonazapam and 25 mg of sertraline. Any advice ? l do have nasty gut pain and gas on the naltrexone.
Hi Michele,
If you’re interested in weight loss you can find more information in my guide here: https://www.restartmed.com/hormone-mastery/
Hi Dr. Westin, My endocrinologist suggested that I am insulin resistant and started me on Metformin 1000mg daily. Is it safe to take Metformin and LDN at the same time without becoming hypoglycemic?
Thank you for your time,
Allison
Hi Allison,
These medications should not cause hypoglycemia but each person is different so make sure to follow up with your physician or check your blood glucose if necessary.
I took LDN for close to a year for FM/CFS, I also have Type 1.5/LADA diabetes. I took doses ranges from 0.5mg-6mg trying to find the “right” dose for me , where I felt the best, I tried am vs. pm dosing. Sadly I recently stopped taking the LDN as I never felt any benefit to my pain , fatigue , or decease in insulin need. Was also hope by for weight loss , appetite suppression , craving control, but saw none of those benefits either.
I’ve been taking 50mg Naltrexone as needed for the Sinclair Method/alcohol abuse for 3 Months. I’ve also just realized that I lost 27 pounds over that 3 months and am sleeping better. Still waiting for alcohol cravings to stop, which I believe takes 4-6 months on average.
Hi Dave,
That’s great! Congrats on your journey so far, your weight is also likely due to a reduction in insulin from reducing your alcohol intake.
I have Hashimoto’s, am menopausal, and am 45 pounds overweight. I’ve been on various diets, including low-carb and HCG (lost and regained), so I am sure I have metabolic damage. I have struggled with inflammation, sleep issues and Leptin resistance. I have a “spare tire” around my middle, which likely means insulin resistance, too. I take thyroid medicines (T3 and T4) and bio-identical estrogen and progesterone. I’ve been working out (weights and HIIT training 3x per week, walking other days) but the scale has only budged about five pounds. Is it safe to take LDN while these hormones? Thanks
Hi Tina,
LDN is generally well tolerated, but I always assess each patient on a case by case basis.
Hello,
I have 7of the 8 keypoints you mention above. I don’t (think) I have hormone imbalances like Insulin and Leptin resistance.
Seeing dr regularly for blood work.
I have been on Contrave for five weeks. I need to lose fifty lbs. Have lost four pounds then gained two. I stay away from fats as much as I can because I have very high cholorestoral (275). Dr has had to give me a stronger statin.
My question is regarding the side affects of Contrave. I am on fifth week. They can be debilitatingand have I missed a day of work. Some days are ok, others I feel fatigued, or very dizzy, foggy, seasick and force myself to function through the day. But my ears have been ringing for almost two weeks and feel like my voice and when I hear is muffled.
I have read that these may clear up in 8-10 weeks. I sure would like to feel good again on this med because even though I eat regular I don’t even think about food as often as I did and I know this can help.
Thank you!
Hi Denise,
This article focuses mostly on naltrexone, if you want to learn more about contrave I would recommend this article: https://www.restartmed.com/contrave-weight-loss/
Hi Denise,
On the off chance you or others read this, your high cholesterol makes me wonder if you have a nickel allergy and/or any metal in your body? Like from a radiation marker or lumpectmy clip or gallbladder clips or from a thyroidectomy (often surgeons won’t ask if you have a metal allergy nor tell you they placed these clips in you). Studies show a correlation between obesity in some people as well as high cholesterol and nickel hypersensitivity. There are patient groups on social media as well as evolving research on this topic. Best of luck!
I have used Contrave for 2 and 1/2 months. I have lost 22 pounds. I am menopausal. Nothing else worked for me. I love this medication and recomend it to anyone struggling with weight loss. It does take time to get your body used to it. You can have some side effects as headaches, nausea and dizzy. Some experience constipation. However I did not. The benefits far out weighed the side effects for me. Also as a bonus. My back no longer hurts plus I sleep so good at night. After menopause that’s a rare thing.
Hi Michelle,
While naltrexone is one of the active ingredients in contrave this article focuses mostly on the application and use of naltrexone as monotherapy. In this article I discuss the combination of wellbutrin plus naltrexone which may be more relevant to your situation: https://www.restartmed.com/contrave-weight-loss/
I’ve been following you on YouTube for a few months and just so happen to come across this article. I’m currently taking LDN, I’ve worked myself up to 2.5mg after starting at .5mg. I have Hashimoto’s, a total thyroidectomy 2 years ago, I’m taking Naturethroid and also just received Bioidentical Testosterone pellets. Prior to this I suffered for 10 years without being diagnosed because my TSH level was always in normal range even though I had a nodule the size of an egg in my left thyroid gland, gained a total of 75lbs and had all symptoms of Hashimoto’s. Since starting with my new Hormone Specialist who switched my old Endocrinologists prescription of Synthroid to Naturethroid, LDN and pellets I have lost 5lbs in the first month without changes to my diet (it’s pretty clean and has been for 10 years). I feel so much better on Naturethroid than Synthroid. I just got my testosterone pellets so they haven’t had time to kick in but I’m hoping it helps with my night sweats which is why I’m up at 4am typing this now. I just wanted to say thank you for all of the information you give to people online, it’s very encouraging.
Hi Alicia,
No problem and I’m glad you found it helpful.
I have been using LDN for almost a year and swear by it. I was hospitalized 4 years ago with sudden onset hasimoto’s encephalopathy which left me with a variety of side effects, most disturbing to me was confusion and a tendency to get overwhelmed. I also take thyroid meds for Hasimoto’s as well as Predisone 4.5 mg for COPD. I have experimented with different dosages of LDN but for me 1.0 mg works like a charm. Any higher and it conflicts with the Predisone and causes skin problems. My mental clarity is so much better and I’ve even lost weight to boot. I have more energy during the day, also. My son who suffers from irritable bowel is now at 3.5 mg LDN and is slowing working his way up to 4.5. He has had only 1 flare but it was mild and lasted just one day. It has truly changed both of our lives.
Hi Suzanne,
Thanks for sharing your story and I’m glad it’s working well for you.
I just asked my GP about Naltroxen. He would not perscibe because he had never heard of it or its use for weight loss. He also didn’t know how it would react with other meds i take . No opiods or other painkilers . I find this very frustrating .
Hi Rise,
Naltrexone is part of a 2 part medication which is FDA approved for weight loss, the medication is known as Contrave. You can read more about that medication here: https://www.restartmed.com/contrave-weight-loss/
I’m not sure what to tell you if your doctor just isn’t aware of the medication, it’s a very well known weight loss medication.
I went to a few doctors before I found one to prescribe ldn. I printed out the information on site ldninfo.org, and the doctor read it. I got the meds. Just started a week ago. Feeling good. Losing weight. 5lbs effortlessly. That never happens for me…I am hopeful this will help the insulin resistance. I think it has. I will check my fasting insulin in a few weeks.
Hi Cat,
That’s great! Glad it is working for you and keep us updated on your progress. 🙂
Dear Doc,
Based on your article, I believe I am the perfect candidate for the meds. I am 1,60m, weigh in at 90kg. Hypothyroid, insulin reistant, metabolic syndrome and battling binge eating disorder. My question is I have high blood pressure due to the added weight. I know if I lose the weight, the blood pressure will normalise. (BP not treated currently). Will this be a problem if I start the meds?
Hi Susan,
LDN shouldn’t interfere with blood pressure.
Thank you for responding and the marvelous work you do. This is hands down the most interesting article I’ve read in my life.
Hi Dr Childs,
What an amazing article!! You are an absolute subject matter expert, you are incredible! Thank you for the good work you do. Please can you give me some guidance. I recently started with 25mg Naltrexone and will up to 50mg soon for severe binge eating disorder and insulin resistance. It worked immediately, little to no side effects. I have hope and I feel incredible. The only problem is that this medication is not well known in my country, the doctor was not able to give me much guidance on anything. What I’ve learned is what I got here. My question is how long would typical treatment for binge eating be? The meds are quite expensive and my doctor could not answer this. 6 months? A year? 2 years? Indefinitely? Will my brain reset or will I go back to binge eating as soon as I stop the meds? Sorry for all the questions, I’ve been battling binge eating disorder for almost 20 years so I’m in 7th heaven for this wonderful opportunity to heal. (I decided against contrave as I don’t react well with Welbutrin). Looking forward to hearing from you!
Hey there, I am not much of a blogger but I came across your website and am having thyroid issues and thought I would seek you advice. I recently went to my endocrinologist and had a battery of tests done. I had my free T3 and free T4 checked. I also had my TSH, RT3 and TPO levels checked. My TSH was normal. My free T4 and T3 were low. RT3 was low and TPO was high. I emailed my endo to start me on a T3 medication. I am already on levothyroxine 50 mg. I also asked to be put on LDN. My endo then called me and told me he was not sure how to treat me! He prescribed me T3 medication but said he does not prescribe LDN. What is your opinion of my treatment considering my lad results? Thank you.
I am on a program called optimal thyroid and highly recommend this program with Dr Kelly Boulden..she is a thyroid specialist…not just an endocrinologost…but thyroid specialist.i went to an endocrinologist and continued to get worse..but she is so knowledgeable and has helped me so much..look for optimal thyroid online..and tell them Debbie Newsong referred you to Dr Boulden.i have thyroid and inflammation issues that other Drs were not able to help me.Matter of fact if I went to any of them for my thyroid issues they would surely take me off thyroid meds on now and I would probably eventually go into thyroid coma.. I feel so much better since Dr Boulder has adjusted my meds and also hS started me on Natrona for inflammation and chronic pain related to hypothyroidism..no other dr or even endocrinologist would be evaluating my symptoms and extensive labs all for cost of less than what it cost for a Dr visit with another Dr that were not helping me.
This program and Dr Boulder have been a life saver for me.
Any word if LDN is contraindicated with someone with no thyroid and on supplementation as well as adrenal fatigue ?
Hi Christy,
It shouldn’t be a problem to use LDN in that setting but realize that each person is different.
I have Hashimotos . My TSH is 7.9 (high) with T3 and T4 being normal and Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Ab is 203 IU/mL (high). I have been on Synthroid 125 MCG for many years. I am 63 years old and have been riding this autoimmune roller coaster for years. My symptoms vary, I am carrying approximately 25 extra pounds for the past 3 years. I have endogenous/exogenous corticosteroid allergy. My doctor precribed LDN today. Found your site looking for information about it. Looking forward to trying it.
Hi Susan,
Hope you found it helpful and hope the LDN works well for you!
I was prescribed Naltrexone 50mg today in place of Contrave since I already take 450mg of Wellbutrin daily. I currently have PCOS and am obese, and was referred to this doctor by an reproductive endocrinologist to help in my journey to conceive. I am concerned that my doctor may inadvertently be over-prescribing my Naltrexone dosage based on Contrave containing 8mg and your recommendation of 1.5-4.5mg. I have given her the name of a local compounding pharmacy in hopes that we can reduce the dosage for weight-loss/insulin resistance effectiveness. If she does not reduce this, what are the potential side effects of using the 50mg on a daily basis for insulin resistance/weight-loss?
I am waiting for my LDN 4mg to come from the compounding pharmacy. Got the script from my naturopath who says it’s great for people like me with hashimotos. I do take 65mg naturethroid 2x daily. I also have 2 kinds of sleep apenea (untreated) and fibromyalgia.
I’m just wondering if in your patients you find one 4mg dose is adequate to help with weight loss as I seem to have hit a set point months ago and can’t get past it.
Thanks
I found it very interesting that you had mentioned that LDN can help modulate appetite and help sustain weight loss because of this. My wife and I have been looking for ways to lose some weight and since we both have very busy schedules we just don’t have time to go to the gym. I’ll have to look into getting some LDN because of its weight loss benefits that it can help with, those would be great to have.
I do not have any addiction issues, my Dr. has me on LDN for Hashimotos ( I also have Lyme). Just curious, is it okay to have a rare occasional glass of red wine with LDN? Thank-you, my first dosage was today. As a side note, I’m looking forward to a possible 10 lb weight loss as a side effect! Thank-you for your response.
Hi Doc,
Just wanted to know what the rules were of copying your work, if I could use it as is and cite it. I am busy writing a handbook to help people that find themselves in a similar situation like myself and found your information to be invaluable. The book might be published.
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Hi Michelle,
We are glad you find this information helpful!
All of the work here including blog posts is copyrighted. You are welcome to use excerpts or send people back to our content through links but we don’t allow direct copying of our material. If you have any other questions please email us here: hello@restartmed.com
This article helped me decide to start LDN. I’m hypothyroid, have PCOS and insulin resistant. I’m 56 and using bio identical hormones and on naturthroid. I eat low carb, high fat diet. One or two meals a day. Started on LDN 20 days ago at .50, just upped to 1.0 mg. Am I on the right track?
Hi Una,
It’s very difficult for me to say if you are on the right track with limited information. I usually spend at least 60 minutes with each patient and look at a comprehensive set of labs before making any suggestions. Based on what you’ve given me here it does seem reasonable, however.
I couldn’t fit the description outlined in this blog any more perfectly. What are the long term implications of using naltrexone as you briefly mentioned?
Hi Dr. Childs,
I have Hashimoto’s and have been bouncing around between thyroid meds for the past couple of years. A year ago my TPO antibodies (on the meds) were 1200. When I decided to stop taking the meds for a month this past December my TPO antibodies went down to 550 and of course my TSH went back to up to 7. I have been taking Nature Throid for a month now and of course my TSH is now very low but my TPO antibodies are back up to 1550. I have been lucky enough to get an rx for Naltrexone which I am going to try. Im just wondering if I should try the Naltrexone alone or in conjunction with the mNature Throid and if theres a possibility of any of the thyroid meds making my TPO antibodies go up. Thank you so much!
Hi Nichole,
There is a slight possibility that using any natural desiccated thyroid medication may make your antibodies go up. You can read more about that here: https://www.restartmed.com/thyroid-medication/
Hi Dr. Childs,
Thanks so much for your reply. I really do appreciate it. I’m torn between making my Tpo Abs stable and my TSH stable..in my case both haven’t coincided with the meds or without. In my situation would you recommend then taking the LDN with or without the other meds for a trial run? I am on a super low dose of LDN starting at 1.5 and then graduating to 3.5.. Can this low of an amount also help with weight loss if my TSH is lets say at 4? lol.. My weight is the same with a TSH of .88 (with meds) and at 7(without meds) so just wondering if my TSH needs to be at a certain level for it to work or if it’s better to not take the thyroid meds for a brief time so my Tpos don’t go haywire again.. sorry for all of the questions.. but appreciate any feedback you have.. your articles are amazing and very helpful..thank you
I stumbled on this article by mistake, I was diagnosed with CRPS last April after a major hand surgery in March. Long story short, because of the CRPS, in October I was prescribed LDN 4.5mg before bed time, and I was prescribed Welbutrin for the short term memory loss and depression that comes with the CRPS. I have lost over 20 lbs since October and don’t have much of an appetite (because of CRPS haven’t had an appetite since June but was not losing weight) so I had began to worry about why I was losing so much weight, not that I couldn’t stand to lose some weight but for someone who has always struggled to lose weight even on a healthy diet and exercise plan, I was startled by my sudden weight loss.
Thank you for your article, it has helped me understand that the combination of Wellbutrin and LDN are probably allowing me to lose weight.
Hi Tanya,
Glad it has helped you! Thanks for sharing your story.
I am a lifelong calorie-restricting person. I had a near death episode as a pre-teen where I did not eat for two months and became skeletal and stopped urinating (due to hepatitis, very very ill). I began to have a negative relationship with food when people praised my “new look” after I finally recovered. (I was normal BMI prior to illness). Anyway, since then I have pretty much always been on a diet and feeling bad about myself when I returned to normal BMI. So I completely fit the yoyo scenario. After children, I went to “upper range normal” BMI and fought harder as my BMI flirted with “overweight.” More yoyo dieting and lots of exercise. No matter how little I ate and how much I went to the gym, I was always “a big girl” so I tried harder. Fast forward to menopause. I will not be joking at all when I say that I SUDDENLY gained 30 lbs with no change to my diet. This took about 3 months. I went to a 20 g carbohydrate, 1,200 calorie diet and did not lose any weight. I started to cry with anger when my husband insisted that I was “miscounting” calories. I was not miscounting. After that episode, I gave up. I continued to gain weight and have horrible carbohydrate cravings that I could not control. I don’t keep bread or snacks in the house so I literally ate sugar. Like right out of the pantry! I also craved alcohol, even though I was never a drinker. I had no idea why I craved alcohol, but a glass of wine could be the same as a carbohydrate fix, and I started having a glass before bed most nights. So finally the BMI was in the obesity range, at 32 and I could not wear any of my clothing. I became frustrated and had all of my hormones checked. My testosterone was half of the lower limit of normal for a menopausal woman. I had a lowish morning cortisol. My TSH was okay, I am on a small dose of synthroid. Although the synthroid did not really cure my symptoms it did give me a TSH of around 1 or 2. Also, I have fibromyalgia and could not move my neck, and had difficulty with severe fatigue which the rheumatologist said was likely due to not sleeping well. ANYWAY here is my testimony: Last week I started taking contrave just the one pill in the am and I feel SIGNIFICANTLY better. I feel alert, I can move my neck, and I do not have any sugar cravings or alcohol cravings AT ALL. I finally felt able to tell people that I can do what I want to do. The contrave has 8mg of naltrexone in it. I am wondering do you see people just staying on the one pill a day and doing a lot better? I have always had a healthy diet with lots of quinoa and vegetables but now there is no carb craving. Would it be worse to go “up” on the dose to 16mg naltrexone? My gyn gave me the contrave and she had to look up how to prescribe it. To say it has helped a lot is an understatement. I am thinking of maybe just getting more wellbutrin and keeping the one dose of naltrexone to keep the dose low. I know that this is an experiment. Just wondering if you have had patients who have done something similar. Also wondering if it is too late to repair the metabolism at this point or will I always need to eat very little to stay even?
Hi Nora,
Generally when I prescribe it I play around with the Wellbutrin and the LDN dosing individually. So yes some patients need more wellbutrin and less naltrexone or vice versa, it just depends on that person.
Thanks for sharing your story and I’m glad it is helping you!
Hi, I have been using Contrave for about 5 months and while it hasn’t done much for controlling my cravings, I have had an unusual experience-my lifelong habit of hair pulling stopped. I have done some research and do believe that it has been the naltrexone component of the contrave that has brought me this miracle cure. I don’t want to be on Contrave anymore (the Wellbutrin messes with my memory and speech), but everytime I start to go off of it, the hair pulling returns and like immediately returns. Am I a candidate for Revia?
Hi Dr. Childs.
I have been doing a lot of research on LDN and started taking it five months ago. I have been titrating up to 4.5 mg and have been at this dose for almost three months. I understand from all of my research that it takes a good deal of time to see results but you are the first professional I have had an opportunity to speak with who is familiar with the treatment.
A quick background. I have a severe form of the connective tissue disease, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. I have dislocations and tissue injuries daily. I am nearly completely disabled due to this and have very limited mobility.
In addition, I have Hoshimoto’s, PSOS, Dysautonomia, Asthma, peripheral neuropathy, migraines and chronic pain/ chronic fatigue.
I have struggled with my weight all of my life. At one point my weight was up to 320lbs. I had a gastric lap-band performed 15 years ago and lost down to a healthy 140 lbs. and maintained that weight within 10 pounds since then.
To manage my pain, I was taking very high doses of both extended release and immediate release morphine. I took it for over eight years. I was at a point, where as you will probably guess, I was plagued by side effects and it was doing less and less to manage to pain. I was also taking Lyrica 300 mg daily.
So, After a lot of research, I concluded I was doing more harm than good to my body and needed to find another solution. I researched LDN and decided to withdrawal from the morphine and work on getting healthy. That was eight months ago. (3 months before starting the LDN). In that time I have gained 35 pounds. I have been on a strictly monitored low calorie diet (700-1000 calories a day) for two months without losing a single pound. In fact I have gained 2 more pounds this month. My Dr. think the weight gain is a stress response to the withdrawal from opioids. I am also still having insomnia attributed to post accuse withdrawal. I do feel like my chronic pain levels have improved but my weight is out of control. I had my hormones levels tested and was told they were borderline low and that I was only slightly insulin resistant. Basically just off from middle of normal range.
So my question is, do you think any of the other medications I am taking could be interfering with the benefits of LDN or do I just need to give it more time?
My current meds are as follows:
Synthroid 75mcg daily
LDN 4.5 mg daily
Xanax 1 mg daily
Ambian ER 12 mg daily
Vitamin D3 50,000 units weekly
Zyrtec daily
Flonase daily
Cyclibenzapar 10 mg several times weekly
Rizatriptan 10mg a few times monthly
In addition I take multivitamin, magnesium, probiotics,prebiotic.
As I mentioned I am eight moths off of the morphine and one month off of lyrica 300 mg daily.
I am also, like several others have mentioned, very very sensitive to hormonal changes or supplements. Contraceptive pills and injections wreaked havoc on my body. Several years ago a Dr tried prescribing HGH injections and progesterone. I reacted terribly and had to discontinue.
P.S
I am considering purchasing your program. I am just uncertain as to whether I am a good candidate based on my very imited ability to exercise coupled with my medical issues. I completely believe you should be paid for your time and I don’t have a problem with doing so. I just want to get a better idea of whether this program will benefit me.
I also forgot to mention in the above book I wrote that I am gluten intolerant with 3 genetic markers for celiac so I already eat a paleo based diet.
On days when my hips and or knees have not dislocated, the most I can do as for exercise is walking short distancesand I use an infrared sauna. More days than not I am confined to a wheelchair or bed.
Westin, I am exceedingly impressed with what you say on here plus I am impressed that you are just helping people without asking for money as another site does.
My husband who has been a teacher/School Principal for 50 years and I have helped parents with their educational challenges with their children, plus later when the ASD syndrome emerged we also helped parents with their homeschooling of their children, and until we retired we did not ask for money, now we ask enough to cover expenses.
Well, I am 72 going on 50, have not been on tablets until now, have never had flu immunizations and after reading what is in them I avoid immunizations like the plague. BUT now I am on LDN.
In my life I had been on many diets, many were low cal ones, which we all know now, causes problems anyway. For about 20 years before I had a hysterectomy, my estrogen levels were sky high and I was sometimes emotionally low but kept myself good using music, entertaining visitors, helping others and happy things, and of course, I put on much weight, (luckily I am tall and no one realized).
My get up and go, got up and went over 40 years ago, it seemed/seems as though every cell has stopped holding hands. I have all of the above but just kept going and as I am a positive person I was happy doing that.
A few weeks ago, they found suspicious lumps in what was left of my thyroid, and wanted to do a biopsy, and being scared of cancer seeding from that, I said no. So next choice was to take it out or watch it for another two months and I chose the latter.
Now my first week on the 4.5 LDN is up tomorrow, and so far NO problems, but the good things to happen is that within two days my hair stopped falling out. I would comb out the dislodged hairs into the basin in the morning so as I did not leave a massive trail everywhere I went and even then I left a bit of a trail, and I think one of the lumps in my throat which seemed to be on top of an enlarged gland has gone right down maybe completely, plus I am not collecting phlegm in my throat so much, BUT my weight has gone up perhaps because I have eaten too many nuts..,
Hi,
I am a thin and very muscular 46 year old woman with hypothyroidism which is being treated by t3/t4 desiccated thyroid hormone. I am currently on 3mg for LDN and have found the opposite effect, I have become ravenous and very much struggle to stop eating even once I am stuffed. This is a totally new phenomenon to me as I have always controlled my weight very well, and very healthily. I like the effects of the LDN on my condition, but the weight gain/appetite increase may be enough to make me stop. Have you heard of this before?
Hi Dr. Childs,
I have been taking LDN 1.5mg at night x 1 week then 3mg at night for almost 2 weeks. I was supposed to increase to 4.5mg at bedtime on week 3 but I have been having ridiculous dreams! I can’t remember ever having so many vivid dreams and some scary. Is this a normal side-effect? Would you agree that I should stick with the 3mg? I have Hashimotos, gluten intolerance (possibly celiac), leaky gut and high inflammatory markers. I do feel great overall, too soon to notice weight loss but hopeful! Thanks!
I am a 54 y/o Black male and have been a typeII diabetic for a bit more than 15 years. I have had very low success over those years controlling my A1C. Of course my diabetic condition was directly related my weight. Last year April/2017 I asked my doctor if I could try Contrave to see if it would offer me any benefit for managing my weight. My doctor was absolutely adamant that my weight control solution could not be found in a bottle. After, a very long and persistent discussion, he (my doctor) wrote the prescription, so long as he could monitor me and, any progress if any, closely. Within 3 months I was down 20lbs in weight with improving A1C and my doctor was absolutely stunned at my success. Within 6 months I was down nearly 50lbs in total, and have remained stable at that weight with an A1C of 5.8 (it was previously between a pitiful 8-9), and I was no longer a typeII diabetic. This was more than a marginal improvement for my life… it was LIFE ALTERING FOR THE BETTER!
While all was going well, I switched insurance companies in January and my new insurance health provider (GEHA) does not see the health benefit I have obtained by my use of Contrave (unlike my prior insurance company), and they refused to pay for it any further because they think of it only as a weightless drug and cannot see the health benefit for a now cured; formerly long term typeII diabetic (I could never figure out why some health insurance companies would rather see their clients ill and suffering with poor health conditions than supporting the solutions that help their client to remain healthy… it absolutely perplexes me). Anyway, the Contrave prescription without insurance is cost prohibitive for me and, to further add insult to injury, ripping me off the Wellbutrin was simply awful. I also quickly began to add a pound here and there and my appetite was increasing by the day. I was direly afraid than my insurance company would be responsible for returning back to a diabetic condition that I desperately did not want to go back to.
My doctor chose to write me two prescriptions- 50mg Naltrexone once a day and 150mg Bupropion (Welbutrin) twice a day. I am now back on track.
There now is no question in either my doctors mind, nor mine, that Contrave absolutely works and I am more enjoying the beautiful health benefit of live a typeII diabetic free life (no thanks to my health insurance company). I have not felt this good in at least 15years.
Dr Childs,
I am blessed to have an excellent Dr who stays up to date and informed. I Have within the past year been diagnosed with Adult Onset Stills DIsease, I also have DIabetes, HBP, FIBRO, Thyroid disease and PCOS. I was diagnosed for many years with insulin resistance aways being told that it was a shock I did not have diabetes, then about 5 yrs ago I was told I did have it! After several years knowing something was very wrong,I finally was referred to my Rheumatologist Dr David Dansdill by my Oncologist. and he diagnosed me with AOSD (Stills) I am now on the Biologic, Kineret, Metformin and HBP meds. I had some luck with Savella but it only lasted 2 years and went on to the three other Fibro meds gaining more weight and still having all of the pain! I just this week started on LDN I am taking 4.5 mg and have not felt results as of yet but know that is expected. I also have had Pancreatitis. (side note) This article has given me hope.. I feel like I am in excellent hands and completely trust in my Dr. I just wanted to thank you for this article and ask if there is someplace I can keep up to date on any changes or studied using LDN..
Thank you,
Mechelle Gagliano Clark