Understanding a Gentle Approach to Wellness
At Valley Medical Weight Loss & Med Spa, we often meet patients who have tried every diet, exercise plan, or supplement only to feel frustrated or exhausted. Many are looking for something that supports the body’s natural balance instead of fighting against it.
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) is one of those options. It is prescribed under medical supervision to help regulate immune function, calm inflammation, and support energy, mood, and metabolic balance.
This overview explains what LDN is, how it works, who it may help, and what to expect if you and your provider decide to include it in your care plan.
What is Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)?
Naltrexone is an FDA-approved medication that has been used for decades in higher doses to treat alcohol and opioid dependence. When taken in much smaller doses (typically 1–6 milligrams), it affects the body differently.
At these lower levels, LDN temporarily blocks certain receptors in the brain that interact with endorphins, which are the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones. When the short block ends, the body responds by increasing its own production of endorphins.
Endorphins play a key role in many systems including mood, pain response, inflammation, and metabolism. By encouraging a healthy endorphin rhythm, LDN may help the body restore balance and improve overall function.
How LDN Works in the Body
While the exact mechanism is still being studied, researchers believe that LDN works through several complementary pathways:
- Endorphin modulation – temporarily blocking opioid receptors signals the body to increase its own natural endorphins once the block lifts.
- Immune regulation – LDN appears to influence microglial cells, the immune cells in the brain and nervous system, helping calm overactive inflammation.
- Pain modulation – by changing how the nervous system processes pain signals, it may lessen chronic discomfort.
- Metabolic support – improved endorphin activity can also influence appetite and energy regulation.
(Reference: National Library of Medicine)
Why Patients Consider LDN
People often ask about LDN when they feel “stuck.” It may be discussed for:
- Chronic inflammation and immune imbalance
- Fatigue, brain fog, or low mood
- Hormonal and metabolic challenges that slow weight management
- Chronic pain or fibromyalgia symptoms
- Autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or lupus
- Post-viral fatigue or long COVID-related issues
LDN is not a cure or a replacement for medical therapy. It is a supportive tool that works alongside your provider’s treatment plan to help improve day-to-day quality of life.
Who is a Good Candidate for LDN
You may be a candidate for LDN if you:
- Have ongoing inflammation or immune-related symptoms
- Struggle with fatigue, cravings, or chronic pain
- Are looking for a gentle, physician-supervised option to complement your wellness plan
- Are not currently using opioid medications
LDN is not recommended if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have significant liver disease, or are receiving chemotherapy or certain immune-suppressing treatments. Your Valley Medical provider will review your full medical history and lab work before prescribing LDN.
How LDN is Dosed and Titrated
LDN is compounded by a licensed pharmacy in the exact dose your provider prescribes.
Typical approach:
- Start low. Many patients begin around 1.125 milligrams taken at bedtime.
- Increase gradually. The dose is raised every week or two as tolerated until reaching 4.5 to 6 milligrams daily.
- Monitor response. Regular follow-ups ensure you are adjusting comfortably.
- Reevaluate after 8–12 weeks. Your provider reviews energy, sleep, appetite, and symptom changes before finalizing your plan.
If you miss a dose, simply resume the next day. Do not double up. If treatment pauses for several weeks, your provider may restart at a lower dose.
What Patients Often Experience
Everyone responds differently, but many describe steady, gradual improvements such as:
- More consistent energy
- Fewer cravings or less emotional eating
- Better sleep quality
- Calmer mood and clearer thinking
- Reduced morning stiffness or aches
These small changes often build momentum. Over time, patients notice it becomes easier to follow healthy routines and feel more balanced overall.
Safety and Possible Side Effects
LDN is considered safe when taken as prescribed under medical supervision. Common temporary side effects include:
- Vivid dreams or temporary sleep changes
- Mild nausea or stomach upset
- Headache or mild fatigue
- Short periods of restlessness at bedtime
Taking the medication at night or adjusting the dose usually resolves these effects.
LDN should not be used if you are taking opioids or medications that rely on opioid receptors for pain control.
How Long Before You See Results
LDN is not a quick fix. Because it works by gently encouraging the body’s natural repair systems, most patients start noticing improvements between 6 and 12 weeks.
We track your progress with regular check-ins. If LDN is helping, we keep it as part of your ongoing plan. If not, your provider will help identify other approaches that better meet your goals.
How LDN Fits into Your Overall Wellness Plan
At Valley Medical, LDN is never used in isolation. It works best when combined with healthy habits that also reduce inflammation and support balance:
- Eating nutrient-dense foods rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats
- Staying hydrated throughout the day
- Incorporating daily movement or strength training
- Managing stress through breathing or mindfulness practices
- Getting consistent, high-quality sleep
We tailor every plan so it is realistic, sustainable, and aligned with your unique needs.
Pricing and Availability
LDN is available at all Valley Medical Weight Loss & Med Spa locations. We keep pricing transparent and simple.
Program Options:
- LDN Weekly Combo Pack – $31.95
- 4-Week Supply – $25
- Plus Meds 4-Week Pack – $25
Your provider will recommend the option that best fits your care plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LDN FDA approved for these uses?
No. LDN is prescribed off-label. That means it is an approved medication used at lower doses for different purposes under physician supervision.
Can LDN help with weight loss?
For some patients, yes. By supporting metabolism, reducing inflammation, and helping regulate appetite signals, LDN can complement a weight-loss program.
How long can I take LDN?
When monitored by a medical provider, LDN can be used safely for months or years. Your provider will decide how long it remains part of your plan.
Can LDN be combined with other treatments?
Yes, but only under professional guidance. It can often be paired with nutritional supplements, hormone therapy, or other weight-management medications.
Taking the Next Step
If you want to understand whether LDN could help you feel more energetic, balanced, and in control, schedule a consultation at Valley Medical Weight Loss & Med Spa.
Our medical team will review your health goals, current medications, and lifestyle, then help you decide if LDN fits your plan. We provide clear pricing, no contracts, and continuous guidance so you can feel confident every step of the way.
Important Information and Disclosures
Educational use only
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) has not been approved by the FDA for the indications discussed in this article. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace medical advice.
Medication disclaimer
Compounded medications are available by prescription only. They are not FDA approved and have not been evaluated by the FDA for safety or effectiveness. When prescribed, they are prepared by licensed pharmacies for individual patients in accordance with applicable laws. Individual experiences vary. Use only under the supervision of a licensed medical provider.
General program disclaimer
Valley Medical Weight Loss & Med Spa does not guarantee specific outcomes. Programs are medically supervised, but results vary by individual. All treatments require evaluation and prescription by a licensed provider.
