Detox Stress with Marlee: Understanding Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
In this episode of the Detox Stress Podcast, Marly shares insights from an article by her friend and former physician, Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, drawing from his book From Fatigue to Fantastic. The focus is on Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)—a compounded, micro-dosed form of the medication naltrexone that some practitioners use off-label to help manage chronic pain, autoimmune issues, and fibromyalgia.
Marly explains that while standard naltrexone is used in addiction treatment at high doses, LDN works very differently and must not be taken with narcotics, as narcotics block its effects. Dr. Teitelbaum considers LDN a potentially helpful option for many people with chronic pain and fatigue, though it remains inexpensive, off-patent, and therefore seldom promoted by the pharmaceutical industry.
She reviews Dr. Teitelbaum’s recommended approach:
Start at very low doses and titrate slowly (often toward 3 mg, taken at bedtime).
Avoid exceeding 4.5 mg, as higher doses may lose effectiveness.
Expect possible temporary sleep disturbances or vivid dreams when starting.
Sensitive individuals may benefit from micro-dosing or using a liquid form to inch upward gradually.
Allow at least two months to evaluate LDN’s effect, as benefits can be slow to emerge.
Marly also shares her personal experience titrating LDN, including practical tips to avoid throat irritation when working with powdered forms. She notes that some people report improvements in pain, fatigue, cognition, and overall wellbeing.
Listeners interested in exploring LDN can consult Dr. Teitelbaum’s book or speak with their healthcare provider. Marlee invites anyone needing compounding pharmacy recommendations to email her support team.
She closes the episode with gratitude, encouraging listeners to share the information with others who might benefit and to subscribe for future healing-focused content.
00:00 Introduction to Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
02:47 Understanding the Benefits and Mechanism of LDN
06:01 Dosage and Administration of LDN
09:10 Long-term Effects and Conclusion