LDN in Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

LDN in Fibromyalgia

A series of Stanford University studies have shown positive results—as much as a 30% decline in symptoms compared to placebo. Researchers say results are best in people with higher sedimentation rates, which indicates an inflammatory response. (A high sed rate could indicate an overlapping condition as it's not typically elevated in fibromyalgia.) Results also indicate that the drug is well tolerated. However, these studies have all been small and more work needs to be done before we know how safe and effective LDN is for this condition. LDN is not FDA-approved for fibromyalgia but is sometimes prescribed off-label.

Use in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

So far, LDN has not been studied for chronic fatigue syndrome. However, some healthcare providers and patients say they've used it successfully. With recent evidence pointing to the possibility of neuroinflammation in chronic fatigue syndrome and LDN's possible impact on inflammation in the nervous system, we may be seeing why this is an effective treatment for some.3 As with fibromyalgia, LDN is sometimes prescribed off-label for chronic fatigue syndrome.