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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Can LDN Low Dose Naltrexone reduce symptoms of fatigue in RA?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
College Station, TX
March 4
 · 
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A myRAteam Member

Low dose naltrexone (LDN) is sometimes discussed as a possible option to help with fatigue and pain in autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Some small studies and patient reports suggest it may help reduce inflammation and improve energy levels for certain people. However, the evidence is still limited, and it is not a standard RA treatment yet. Anyone considering it should discuss it with their rheumatologist to see if it is appropriate for their situation.

March 5
A myRAteam Member

Good information and appreciated. I will ask my Dr about them. I am experiencing much fatigue but it's possible that I'm experiencing some muscle illness. My arms get so extremely painful I go to 9 pain just after using them. Today was a hard day. But I got relief w pain med and rubbing Frankenscense Oil w Coconut oil on my arms and legs. I also have deep muscle from Vitality.

March 4
myRAteam

Can low-dose naltrexone (LDN) reduce fatigue symptoms in rheumatoid arthritis?

Currently, there's limited research on LDN specifically for RA fatigue. While LDN has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects in RA, the existing research doesn't directly address whether it reduces fatigue.

Show Full Answer

Can low-dose naltrexone (LDN) reduce fatigue symptoms in rheumatoid arthritis?

Currently, there's limited research on LDN specifically for RA fatigue. While LDN has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects in RA, the existing research doesn't directly address whether it reduces fatigue.

One study found that people with RA using LDN needed less medication overall, including DMARDs and pain relievers. However, a clinical trial examining LDN for chronic arthritis pain didn't find significant differences between treatment and placebo groups. These studies were small and short-term, highlighting the need for larger, longer trials.

LDN appears to work by affecting the immune system in two ways:
- It blocks inflammatory proteins that cause joint damage and pain
- It helps release endorphins that may balance immune cells

Since reducing inflammation and pain can indirectly help with energy levels, LDN might potentially help with fatigue, but this hasn't been specifically proven yet. More research is needed to understand if LDN effectively reduces RA-related fatigue.

If fatigue is significantly affecting your daily life, talk with your rheumatologist about all available treatment options, including whether LDN might be worth exploring for your specific situation.

March 4
A myRAteam Member

What is naltrexone? Thanks

March 16

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