What Is Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)? A Patient & Prescriber Overview

What Is Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)?

Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) refers to naltrexone prescribed at doses much lower than its original, commercially available strengths.

Because these lower doses are not commercially manufactured, LDN is typically prepared by a compounding pharmacy based on a prescriber’s order.

Patients are often introduced to LDN when their provider is exploring individualized or off-label treatment approaches and needs precise dosing flexibility.

How LDN Differs From Standard Naltrexone

Commercial naltrexone products are available only in higher strengths. LDN uses much smaller doses, which require:

• Accurate measurement

• Consistent preparation

• Reliable compounding processes

This is why LDN prescriptions are commonly sent to specialized compounding pharmacies rather than retail chains.

(For a general overview of how compounding works, see our post: What Is a Compounding Pharmacy?)

Why Compounding Matters for LDN

Compounding allows prescribers to:

• Specify exact doses not commercially available

• Adjust dosage forms (capsule, liquid, etc.)

• Remove dyes, sugar, or allergenic excipients

• Modify therapy based on patient tolerance

At Dr. Aziz Pharmacy, LDN is compounded in accordance with USP standards, state pharmacy regulations, and prescriber instructions.

Common Reasons Prescribers Consider LDN

Prescribers may explore LDN as part of a broader treatment plan for patients when conventional approaches have been insufficient.

LDN is most commonly discussed in clinical contexts involving:

• Chronic pain conditions

• Autoimmune or inflammatory disorders

• Certain neurological conditions

• Gastrointestinal disorders

• Dermatologic conditions

The decision to prescribe LDN is made by the treating provider based on individual patient factors.

Dosage Forms & Customization

Because patient needs vary, LDN may be compounded into:

• Capsules at specific strengths

• Liquid formulations for titration

• Dye-free, sugar-free, or allergen-free preparations

Compounding allows flexibility while maintaining consistency and quality.

Is LDN FDA-Approved?

Naltrexone itself is FDA-approved at standard doses. Low-dose naltrexone refers to an off-label use, which is a common and accepted part of medical practice when clinically appropriate.

Compounding pharmacies prepare LDN only with a valid prescription and in compliance with regulatory standards.

For Prescribers: When to Consider Compounded LDN

Prescribers may consider compounded LDN when:

• Required doses are not commercially available

• Precise dose adjustments are needed

• Patients require alternative dosage forms

• Sensitivities to inactive ingredients are a concern

At Dr. Aziz Pharmacy, we collaborate with prescribers to ensure formulation feasibility, regulatory compliance, and consistent preparation.

LDN Compounding at Dr. Aziz Pharmacy

Dr. Aziz Pharmacy compounds low-dose naltrexone as part of our broader focus on individualized therapy and specialty compounding, including:

• Hormone therapy

• Pain management

• Gastroenterology preparations

• Dermatology formulations

We serve patients and prescribers throughout Indianapolis and Indiana.

Low-dose naltrexone is an example of how personalized medicine and compounding pharmacy intersect. When standard medication strengths do not meet patient needs, compounding allows therapy to be tailored appropriately—under prescriber guidance and regulatory oversight.

If you have questions about compounded LDN, speak with your prescriber and contact Dr. Aziz Pharmacy to discuss formulation options.

*These statements are culmination of the knowledge and experience of the team at Dr. Aziz Pharmacy. The information provided here is for informational purposes only. Please consult your healthcare provider with questions concerning any medical condition or treatment. Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety or efficacy. This article was generated with assistance from ChatGPT. All AI-generated content is reviewed by our clinical team for accuracy. This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice.