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Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) and Autoimmune Conditions: A Personalized Approach Through Compounding

This article is about: Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) and Autoimmune Conditions.


Living with an autoimmune condition often means navigating flare-ups, chronic symptoms, and complex treatment plans. While conventional therapies like immunosuppressants and steroids are commonly prescribed, they don’t work for everyone — and they often come with significant side effects.


That’s why turning to Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) as an alternative or complementary option may be a great idea.


What Is Low Dose Naltrexone?

Originally approved in the 1980s at higher doses (50 mg) to treat opioid addiction, naltrexone blocks opioid receptors in the brain. But when used at much lower doses — typically between 0.5 mg and 4.5 mg daily — naltrexone works very differently.

In these smaller amounts, LDN may help regulate the immune system by:


  • Reducing inflammation

  • Modulating immune cell activity

  • Increasing endorphin production

  • Promoting tissue repair and neurological balance


It’s this unique immune-modulating effect that makes LDN a promising therapy for individuals with autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.


What Conditions May Benefit from LDN?

Though research is still emerging, many patients with chronic autoimmune or inflammatory conditions have reported improvements in symptoms, including:

  • Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

  • Multiple sclerosis (MS)

  • Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

  • Lupus (SLE)

  • Crohn’s disease & ulcerative colitis

  • Psoriasis & eczema

  • Fibromyalgia & chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)

  • Sjögren’s syndrome


LDN is not a cure — but it may offer relief by calming overactive immune responses and reducing inflammation, often with fewer side effects than traditional medications.


Why LDN Needs to Be Compounded

LDN isn’t available as a commercial product in these lower doses — that’s where compounding pharmacies like The Pharmacy Lab come in.


We work with your prescriber to compound custom LDN capsules or suspensions tailored to your prescribed dose. Here’s how we help:


  • Custom Dosing Options

Every person responds differently to LDN. Some start as low as 0.5 mg and increase slowly over weeks. Others maintain long-term benefits at 3 mg or 4.5 mg. We can adjust your dose as needed — no standard pill can offer that flexibility.


  • Multiple Forms Available

We offer LDN in capsules, sublingual drops, or liquid suspensions depending on your needs and preferences.


  • Additive-Free Options

We can prepare LDN with minimal fillers, making it suitable for sensitive patients, those with dietary restrictions, or people managing multiple autoimmune conditions.


What Can You Expect with LDN?

LDN is typically taken at night and works gradually over time. Many patients report:


  • Reduced pain and inflammation

  • Improved energy and sleep

  • Fewer autoimmune flares

  • Better mood and resilience


Some people feel a difference in a few weeks; for others, it can take 2–3 months to experience noticeable improvements. That’s why consistent use and pharmacist-guided support are key.


Is LDN Safe?

LDN is generally well tolerated. Some people may experience vivid dreams or sleep disruption at first, but these effects often resolve quickly. Because LDN is not immunosuppressive, it doesn’t carry the same risks as steroids or biologics — but it should always be used under medical supervision.


How The Pharmacy Lab Can Help

If you’re exploring LDN as part of your autoimmune care plan, we’re here to support you.


At The Pharmacy Lab, we:

  • Collaborate with your prescriber to create a personalized LDN compound

  • Offer ongoing guidance around titration and timing

  • Ensure high-quality ingredients and accurate dosing

  • Provide accessible options for sensitive individuals or complex cases


We believe your medication should be as unique as your health journey — and that starts with personalized compounding.


Ready to Try Low Dose Naltrexone?

If you’re interested in LDN for autoimmune support, ask your doctor or functional medicine provider about a compounded prescription. Or contact The Pharmacy Lab by email at info@thepharmacylab.ca or you can also give us a call at 416-778-1101— we’re happy to answer your questions, walk you through the process, and help you take the next step toward balanced, individualized care.


Get in touch today to learn more about compounded LDN. Because you deserve a treatment plan that fits you — not the other way around.



Pharmacist compounding tools with medication.

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