What is the LDN Starter Pack?
The LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone) Starter Pack is a specially designed course of compounded naltrexone capsules, provided in gradually increasing strengths.
Developed to help patients begin LDN therapy safely and comfortably, the pack supports a stepwise titration process under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
The starter pack helps your body get used to low dose naltrexone by starting on a low dose and gradually titrating up to a maintenance dose. This is the dose that is a happy compromise between the benefits obtained from the LDN and side effects, with one of the more bizarre ones being, vivid dreams.
Each pack contains six different strengths—0.5mg, 1mg, 1.5mg, 2mg, 3mg, and 4.5mg—making it easy to follow a tailored dosing schedule recommended by your prescriber.
The LDN Starter Pack provides you with enough low dose naltrexone for your first three months of therapy.
What are the ingredients in the LDN Starter Pack?
Each capsule in the LDN Starter Pack contains:
- Active ingredient: Naltrexone Hydrochloride (in low, titrated doses: 0.5mg, 1mg, 1.5mg, 2mg, 3mg, and 4.5mg)
- Excipients: Pharmaceutical-grade fillers such as microcrystalline cellulose or lactose (the exact excipient may vary—please refer to your pack’s label or consult your pharmacist for full details).
What is the LDN Starter Pack used for?
Low Dose Naltrexone is an unlicensed, compounded medicine that may help some individuals manage certain chronic, inflammatory, or immune-related conditions. While robust clinical evidence is still emerging, LDN is being researched for its potential role in supporting patients with conditions such as:
- Long COVID [1]
- Multiple Sclerosis [2]
- Fibromyalgia [3]
- Inflammatory bowel disease [4]
- Cancer [5]
- Various autoimmune and chronic pain disorders [6]
It’s important to note that LDN is not licensed for these uses in the UK, and its effectiveness may vary between individuals. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
References:
- Courier Pharmacy. (2025). Can LDN help with long COVID? [online] Courier Pharmacy. Available at: https://courierpharmacy.co.uk/can-ldn-help-with-long-covid/ [Accessed 24 May 2025].
- Agrawal, Y.P., 2005. Low dose naltrexone therapy in multiple sclerosis. Medical hypotheses, 64(4), pp.721-724.
- Ahsan, S. (2025). Fibromyalgia and LDN. [online] Medical Mojo. Available at: https://medicalmojo.co.uk/fibromyalgia-and-ldn/ [Accessed 24 May 2025].
- Lie, M.R., van der Giessen, J., Fuhler, G.M., de Lima, A., Peppelenbosch, M.P., van der Ent, C. and van der Woude, C.J., 2018. Low dose Naltrexone for induction of remission in inflammatory bowel disease patients. Journal of translational medicine, 16, pp.1-11.
- Zagon, I.S. and McLaughlin, P.J., 1983. Naltrexone modulates tumor response in mice with neuroblastoma. Science, 221(4611), pp.671-673.
- Toljan, K. and Vrooman, B., 2018. Low-dose naltrexone (LDN)—review of therapeutic utilization. Medical Sciences, 6(4), p.82.
How does the LDN Starter Pack work?
Naltrexone is traditionally used in higher doses for opioid and alcohol dependence, but at low doses, it is thought to act differently in the body. Research suggests that LDN may modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation by temporarily blocking opioid receptors, which in turn may increase the body’s natural production of endorphins [1]. This effect is being studied for its potential to help with various chronic and autoimmune conditions, although more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved.
References:
- Toljan, K. and Vrooman, B., 2018. Low-dose naltrexone (LDN)—review of therapeutic utilization. Medical Sciences, 6(4), p.82.
How to take the LDN Starter Pack
The LDN Starter Pack is designed for gradual dose escalation, making it easier for your body to adjust. Take one capsule daily, following this schedule:
- Week 1: 0.5mg daily
- Week 2: 1mg daily
- Week 3: 1.5mg daily
- Week 4: 2mg daily
- Week 5: 3mg daily
- Week 6 and beyond: 4.5mg daily (maintenance dose)
Always take LDN at the same time each day, ideally in the evening, unless advised otherwise by your prescriber. Swallow capsules whole with water. Do not exceed the prescribed dose and consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or experience side effects.
Who should not take the LDN Capsule Starter Pack?
The LDN Capsule Starter Pack is not suitable for everyone. You should not take LDN if you:
- Are currently using opioid painkillers or opioid-containing medications, as LDN can block their effects and may cause withdrawal symptoms.
- Have a known allergy or intolerance to naltrexone or any of the other ingredients in the capsules.
- Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, unless specifically advised by your prescriber.
- Have severe liver disease or acute hepatitis, as naltrexone is processed in the liver.
- Have not discussed LDN therapy with a qualified healthcare professional.
Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting LDN to ensure it is appropriate for your individual health circumstances.
What are the side effects of the LDN Starter Pack?
Like all medicines, Low Dose Naltrexone may cause side effects in some people. Most side effects are mild and tend to settle as your body adjusts to treatment. Possible side effects include:
- Sleep disturbances (such as vivid dreams or insomnia)
- Headache
- Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, abdominal pain, or diarrhea)
- Dizziness
- Mild agitation or mood changes
Serious side effects are rare at low doses. If you experience jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), severe abdominal pain, or signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing), stop taking LDN and seek medical attention immediately.
What medicines should you not take with the LDN Starter Pack?
It’s important to avoid certain medicines while taking LDN, as interactions may occur. Do not take LDN if you are currently using:
- Opioid painkillers (such as codeine, morphine, tramadol, oxycodone, or fentanyl)
- Cough or cold remedies containing opioids
- Methadone or buprenorphine (used in opioid dependence treatment)
Always inform your healthcare provider about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are taking before starting LDN. Your prescriber will advise you on any necessary adjustments to your medication regimen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the LDN Capsule Starter Pack
1. What is the LDN Capsule Starter Pack?
It’s a course of gradually increasing doses of low dose naltrexone, designed to help new users titrate safely under medical supervision. The LDN capsule starter pack contains LDN capsules in strengths of 0.5mg, 1mg, 1.5mg, 2mg, 3mg and 4.5mg.
2. How do I take the LDN Capsule Starter Pack?
Take one capsule daily, starting with the lowest dose (0.5mg) and increasing the dose each week as directed by your prescriber.
3. What conditions is LDN used for?
LDN is an unlicensed, compounded medicine that may help manage certain chronic, inflammatory, or immune-related conditions. Always consult your doctor for advice.
4. Is LDN safe?
LDN is generally well-tolerated at low doses, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Side effects are usually mild but do discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
5. Can I take LDN with other medicines?
You must not take LDN with opioid painkillers or opioid-containing products. Always check with your prescriber about any other medicines you are taking.
6. What are the most common side effects?
The most common side effects are mild and include sleep disturbances, headache, and gastrointestinal upset.
7. How should I store the LDN capsules?
Store your capsules in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
8. Do I need a prescription for LDN?
Yes, LDN is a prescription-only medicine and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.
9. Is LDN licensed for these uses in the UK?
No, LDN is an unlicensed, compounded medicine in the UK. It is prepared to meet the specific needs of individual patients.
10. Who can I contact if I have questions about LDN?
Our pharmacy team is always here to help. You can contact us at 0203 189 1942 or speak to your prescriber for more information.
11. How long does the LDN starter pack last?
The LDN starter pack is designed to help you navigate the first three months of your LDN treatment.
