Exploring the Use of Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): San Antonio TX Integrative & Functional Medicine Dr. Kim
- John Kim
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
Low-dose naltrexone (LDN), typically given at doses of 1–5 mg/day, has generated interest as a potential therapy for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Unlike its traditional use at higher doses for opioid or alcohol dependence, LDN appears to work differently—mainly by modulating the immune system and influencing the brain’s natural opioid pathways.
Over the past few decades, researchers have investigated whether LDN can improve behavioral symptoms, communication, and social functioning in autistic individuals. Below is a review of clinical trial evidence to help parents, caregivers, and clinicians understand where the science currently stands.
Clinical Trial Evidence at a Glance
1. Kolmen et al. (1995): Promising Results in Young Children
Design: Double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study in 13 children (ages 3–8)
Key Outcomes:
Improvements in hyperactivity, restlessness, and social communication (especially as rated by parents and teachers)
No major safety concerns, but children disliked the bitter tablets
Conclusion: LDN showed modest behavioral benefits and was well tolerated
2. Willemsen-Swinkels et al. (1996): Mixed Outcomes
Design: 4-week crossover study in 23 children with autism
Key Outcomes:
Teachers observed reduced hyperactivity and irritability
No improvements in social interaction or repetitive behaviors
Conclusion: LDN may help with certain behaviors but not core autism traits
3. Bouvard et al. (1995): Biochemical Clues
Design: Double-blind, placebo-controlled study with blood biomarker analysis
Key Outcomes:
Modest clinical benefits and biochemical normalization (e.g., beta-endorphins, serotonin)
Children with specific biochemical imbalances responded better
Conclusion: LDN may help a specific subgroup of autistic children
4. Campbell et al. (1990): Early Signals in Older Children
Design: 21-day trial in 18 children (ages 3–7)
Key Outcomes:
Reduced hyperactivity and restlessness, particularly in older children
No impact on learning tasks
Conclusion: Findings were encouraging but limited by small sample size
5. Zingarelli et al. (1992): Limited Effects in Adults
Design: Crossover study in 8 autistic young adults
Key Outcomes:
Minimal improvement in self-injurious and maladaptive behaviors
Conclusion: LDN may be less effective in adult populations or for certain behaviors
6. Willemsen-Swinkels et al. (1995): Single-Dose Study
Design: 23 children received a single 40 mg dose of naltrexone
Key Outcomes:
Reduction in irritability, but no improvement in social behavior
Conclusion: One-time dosing offers limited benefits; chronic dosing may be more effective
Summary of Findings
Efficacy
LDN may help reduce hyperactivity, irritability, and some behavioral issues in autistic children.
Improvements in social communication are inconsistent and generally modest.
Best results may occur in biochemically distinct subgroups, such as children with elevated beta-endorphin or serotonin levels.
Safety
LDN is generally safe and well-tolerated, with side effects such as mild sedation or irritability being rare and temporary.
No serious side effects were reported in any of the trials reviewed.
Limitations
Most studies were small and short in duration.
Results varied between individuals, suggesting that LDN is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Larger, more rigorous trials are needed to confirm its benefits and identify the best candidates.
How LDN Might Work in Autism
LDN’s benefits are believed to come from:
Blocking opioid receptors briefly, which may reset the body’s endorphin balance and reduce abnormal pain or sensory responses.
Modulating immune responses and potentially decreasing neuroinflammation—both of which are suspected contributors to autism symptoms in some individuals.
While this is promising, these mechanisms are still being studied and are not fully understood.
Practical Considerations
Off-label use: LDN is not FDA-approved for autism, so it must be prescribed off-label by a knowledgeable physician.
Formulation challenges: Children may require compounded liquid LDN to avoid the bitter taste and to achieve accurate dosing.
Dosing: Typical dosing ranges from 0.5 to 4.5 mg/day, and may be adjusted based on age, weight, and response.
Final Thoughts
LDN offers a low-risk, potentially helpful option for some children with autism—particularly those with hyperactivity, irritability, or certain biochemical patterns. While not a cure or primary treatment, it may serve as an adjunct in a broader therapeutic plan.
If you are considering LDN for yourself or a loved one with autism, talk with a provider familiar with both autism spectrum disorders and functional or integrative medicine approaches. Every person with autism is unique, and treatment decisions should always be individualized.
📘 Serving San Antonio TX Integrative & Functional Medicine Using LDN for Treatng Neuropathy, Brain Fog, Fatigue
Dr. Yoon Hang Kim, MD is a board-certified physician specializing in integrative functional medicine, dedicated to uncovering root causes and providing personalized healing for chronic and complex conditions. He is a recognized expert in Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) for treating neuropathy, brain fog, and fatigue. He offers telemedicine services across multiple states—including Quincy, IL and throughout Illinois, San Antonio TX and all of Texas, Missouri, Florida, and Atlanta as well as the rest of Georgia.