Understanding the Optimum Dose of Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN): Functional Medicine - Quincy IL Dr. Yoon Hang Kim MD
- John Kim
- Aug 3
- 2 min read
What Is LDN or Low Dose Naltrexone?
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) refers to the use of Naltrexone, a medication originally developed to treat opioid addiction, at significantly lower doses—typically between 1 to 4.5 milligrams—as opposed to the standard 50 milligrams used for addiction treatment.
At these lower doses, LDN interacts with the body's endorphin and immune systems, stimulating natural pain-relief and anti-inflammatory pathways. This makes it a promising integrative option for a variety of chronic health conditions.
What Conditions Can LDN Help?
LDN has gained recognition for its potential benefits in treating conditions involving immune dysregulation, chronic inflammation, and neurological imbalance. Here are some of the key areas where it may provide support:
a. Autoimmune Conditions
LDN is being explored for autoimmune disorders such as:
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Crohn’s Disease
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
By helping modulate an overactive immune system, LDN may reduce attacks on healthy tissue, relieve symptoms, and enhance overall quality of life.
b. Inflammatory Conditions
Chronic inflammation plays a central role in many diseases, including:
Fibromyalgia
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Cardiovascular and metabolic disorders
LDN may help by increasing endorphin levels and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines, offering a non-opioid option for reducing inflammation.
c. Neuroprotective Effects
LDN has shown early promise in supporting neurological health, with applications in:
Parkinson’s Disease
Alzheimer’s Disease
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Its effect on neuroinflammation and endorphin regulation may help protect nerve cells and improve cognitive resilience.
d. Sleep Health Enhancement
For those struggling with poor sleep due to pain, stress, or inflammation, LDN may aid by:
Regulating circadian rhythms
Reducing discomfort and nerve sensitivity
Improved sleep can be an indirect yet significant benefit reported by many LDN users, especially those with chronic conditions.
Achieving the Optimum Dose of LDN Quincy IL Functional Medicine
Finding the right dose is essential to maximizing LDN’s benefits. Here's a general approach:
Start low: As little as 1 microgram, especially for sensitive individuals.
Titrate gradually: Increase the dose weekly under professional guidance until reaching a target of 1.5 to 4.5 mg, or the dose that provides noticeable benefit.
Managing Side Effects
Some users may experience:
Vivid dreams
Headaches
Nausea or mild GI discomfort
In such cases, a “drug holiday”—pausing LDN for about a week—can help reset tolerance. Afterward, reintroduce the medication at a lower dose and continue gradual titration.
Final Thoughts
LDN is not a one-size-fits-all therapy. Working closely with a knowledgeable healthcare provider is essential to:
Tailor dosing
Monitor response
Adjust as needed
By starting low and going slow, many patients are able to unlock the full potential of LDN in a safe and sustainable way—supporting immune balance, reducing inflammation, and enhancing overall wellbeing.
Dr. Yoon Hang Kim, MD is a board-certified physician specializing in integrative and 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) therapy and offers telemedicine services across multiple states—including Quincy, IL and throughout Illinois, San Antonio and all of Texas, Missouri, Florida, and Atlanta as well as the rest of Georgia.
contact Dr. Kim: https://hushforms.com/directintegrativecare-secure-contact-form
Video Resources: https://www.youtube.com/@YoonHangKimMD
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