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Question about Low Dose Naltrexone

I have Lupus, RA, fibromyalgia, and a bulging disc. Currently I am prescribed MS Contin ER and IR for pain but I only take 1 ER a day because I don't want my body to become dependent. I am in severe Pain mainly right now from bulging disc. I have found a doctor in my area that writes LD naltrexone scripts. Has anyone had success with this drug? I know studies have been done where it helps with fibro but will it help with the disc pain? I do know you can't take pain medicine with it. Any advice?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rln12280 (Post 1227891)

Hi, I have CRPS. I am on Gabapentin, Lyrica, Celebrex and Low Does Naltrexone. THE LDN was the last drug I was prescribed and I found good relief from pain with it. In your specific case, I do not know if it would help a bulging disc. My pain is nerve pain and this combo of drugs did help me. I know my answer is really helping you, but good luck. Any other questions, let me know.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rln12280 (Post 1227891)

Hi Rln12280

Some people seem to benefit from LDN - it depends on your individual situation. You would definitely have to titrate off the MS Contin ER (and have a gap period of several weeks) before trialing LDN. There can be severe reactions if you take the two together.

Also be aware that LDN can reduce cortisol levels in your body. If you already have a compromised immune system or are taking medications that reduce your cortisol levels then taking LDN on top could push the cortisol levels very low. I see you've read the other thread where LDN was discussed and where I outlined my experience. I had to stop LDN because of the effect it had on cortisol.

If you decide to trial it I would suggest doing as much research as possible for info related to your condition and current medications. Start at a very low dose (eg 0.5mg) and titrate up every two weeks by another 0.5mg. Keeping a record to monitor doses and effects is a good way to assess if it's helping and to determine the most effective dose for you. Some people - including those with auto-immune conditions seem to do better on 3.5mg rather than the 4.5mg often cited.

All the best - please let us know how you get on and ask if you have any more questions.