Low-Dose Naltrexone: A Novel Adjunctive Treatment in Symptomatic Alopecias?
January 2019
in “
Dermatology Online Journal
”
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Studysummary This article discusses the potential of low-dose naltrexone as an adjuvant therapy for trichodynia in alopecias, noting its anti-inflammatory properties and need for further research.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The document from 2019 discusses the potential use of low-dose naltrexone (LDN), a competitive antagonist of opioid receptors, as an adjunctive treatment for symptomatic alopecias presenting with trichodynia, a scalp discomfort common in patients with hair loss. LDN, defined as daily doses ranging from 1mg to 5mg, is believed to increase endogenous opioids, including beta-endorphins, which have anti-inflammatory properties. These mechanisms may justify its possible role in treating inflammatory conditions. The authors suggest that LDN could be a cost-effective alternative to add to the therapeutic arsenal due to its anti-inflammatory properties, analgesic potential, and few reported adverse effects. However, they also note that further studies are needed to standardize dosing, better understand its mechanism of action, and evaluate its potential therapeutic indications.
