LDN can help with Eczema

Naltrexone, particularly in low doses, has the potential to treat an array of primary skin lesions through inflammatory and immune cell regulation and skin regeneration. Potential future uses include the treatment of diabetic wounds, bullous diseases, scarring alopecia, alopecia areata, and psoriasis.

Can Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) help Eczema?

Naltrexone is being used as treatment for drug addiction, but at low doses, it appears to have dermatologic uses, particularly on eczema.

What is Eczema?

Eczema is a term for a skin condition causing it to be inflamed, red, and itchy. Eczema is a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder affecting around 20% of children and 10% of adults around the world. The main cause of eczema is still unknown but it’s believed to be a due to a combination of genes or environmental triggers. When an irritant activates the immune system, it overreacts causing eczema flare-ups. Though it manifests on the skin, it’s not contagious. Although there is currently no cure for eczema, there are treatments to improve symptoms like over-the-counter and prescription medications like steroids that can be taken orally or applied topically (on the skin), phototherapy (using light), immunosuppressants, and immune-modulating medications.

How can low-dose naltrexone (LDN) help with eczema?

Studies have shown that LDN reduces the cells responsible for immune reactions and inflammation which may help to alleviate the symptoms of eczema. Research on LDN have also been successful in addressing pruritus (uncomfortable and intense itching) associated with eczema. LDN may offer a better alternative to long-term use of steroids in helping improve the symptoms of eczema like intense itching and inflammation.