Lodonak Capsules 4.5 Mg

The 4.5 mg tablet refers to Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN), a specialized, reduced-strength form of the medication Naltrexone.

Unlike the standard doses of Naltrexone (50 mg - 100 mg), which are FDA-approved for treating alcohol and opioid use disorders, the 4.5 mg dose is used "off-label" to manage various chronic and autoimmune conditions.

Description of Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) 4.5 mg
FeatureDescription
Active IngredientNaltrexone Hydrochloride
Drug ClassOpioid Receptor Antagonist (used as an immune modulator/anti-inflammatory agent at low doses)
Dosage4.5 mg is the most common or "target" maintenance dose for LDN therapy. It is approximately one-tenth of the standard dose.
FormulationNaltrexone tablets are commercially available as 50 mg tablets. Therefore, the 4.5 mg strength must be custom-made by a compounding pharmacy (often as a capsule or liquid).
Primary Mechanism (Low Dose)At this low dose, Naltrexone is thought to work by:

• Transiently blocking opioid receptors, which causes a "rebound" increase in the body's natural pain-relieving chemicals (endorphins).
• Modulating the immune system and reducing neuroinflammation by acting on cells like microglia.

Common Off-Label UsesLDN is studied and used to manage symptoms in chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, including:

• Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
• Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long COVID
• Hashimoto's Thyroiditis

AdministrationTypically taken as a single daily dose, often at bedtime, as this is believed to maximize its immune-modulating effects.
Onset of EffectPatients may need to take LDN for several weeks to a few months before significant benefits are noticed.

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Common Side Effects
LDN is generally well-tolerated, and side effects are usually mild and temporary.

Sleep Disturbances: Vivid dreams or nightmares are the most commonly reported side effects, especially when taken at night.

Gastrointestinal: Mild nausea, diarrhea, or upset stomach.

Other: Headaches, temporary anxiety, or mild initial insomnia.

Important Precaution
Opioids: LDN can cause acute withdrawal symptoms if taken by a person currently taking opioid medication. It is essential to stop all opioid use (including pain medication like codeine, morphine, or tramadol) before starting LDN. You must always consult your prescribing physician.