The use of low dose Naltrexone
(LDN) for infertility is heralded as a breakthrough by
some doctors. Infertility, according to medical experts,
is an endorphin deficiency state and LDN increases
endorphin levels and strengthens the immune system.
Endorphins are compounds that are known to function as
neurotransmitters that help in learning and
co-ordination along with regulating the reproductive
hormones.
Naltrexone for
infertility
is currently being used off label since the last decade.
It is also being touted as a treatment for frequent
miscarriages, persistent fatigue and lethargy, stress
disorders and endometriosis.
A word of caution here,
Naltrexone may work as a wonder drug for infertility but
there are several complications and contraindications
associated with LDN. It has been noted that Naltrexone
if given in high amounts, can damage vital organs like
the kidneys and the liver; therefore they should be
strictly kept away from patients with diseases of these
organs. Mild side-effects include irregular sleep,
headaches and nausea; these side-effects subside in a
couple of weeks. However, there are about 5% among
patients who are completely intolerant to LDN and in
such a case, it must be discontinued immediately.
Also care should be taken not to mix LDN with
immunosuppressive drugs like steroids. It should not be
given to patents who are being treated with pain
relieving medications because Naltrexone slows down
their effects and causes nausea/ vomiting; a side-effect
that can last up to 48 hours. Because of the low doses
of Naltrexone for infertility, (LDN), side effects are
mild and rare.
But is Naltrexone really safe as a cure for
infertility?
Naltrexone is not
a licensed drug for infertility though it has
been approved by the FDA for rehabilitating alcoholics
and drug addicts. Anything other than getting pregnant
with natural methods should be used very carefully. Get
your tests done (thyroid, iron – calcium levels) before
you go the family way. Take your multivitamins along
with folic acid as these can help to boost your fertility
. Visit a
doctor if your period is irregular as this will
definitely affect your ovulation.
Avoid caffeine and get into a
healthy, holistic eating pattern; avoid too much protein
recent studies have concluded that extra protein in your
diet can hamper your chances of conceiving. These days
there are also a lot of alternate therapies
for infertility such as acupuncture and
de-stressing programs to combat infertility. Make sure you
have tried out these natural fertility boosters before
you start taking drugs which may or may not create
complications.
