Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) is an off-label use of naltrexone, which is traditionally prescribed at higher doses to manage opioid and alcohol addiction. At lower doses, typically between 1-5 mg per day, its mechanism of action is very different in that it provides potent anti-inflammatory benefits. 

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LDN works by:

1. Opioid Receptor Modulation: Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist. At high doses, it blocks opioid receptors, which can help in preventing opioid effects. At low doses, however, it’s believed to work differently. LDN causes a temporary, mild blockade of opioid receptors, which leads to a rebound upregulation of the body’s natural opioid system and an increase in the release of endorphins.  
2. Immune System Modulation: One of the proposed mechanisms of LDN is its impact on the immune system. Endorphins can influence immune function, and by increasing endogenous opioid levels, LDN might help modulate immune responses. This is thought to be beneficial in conditions like autoimmune diseases and chronic pain syndromes.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: There’s some evidence suggesting that LDN might have anti-inflammatory effects. This could be linked to its impact on the immune system and endorphin levels, which might help reduce inflammation in various chronic conditions.
4. Neuroprotection: LDN may also have neuroprotective effects. By modulating endorphin levels and immune responses, it could potentially help protect against neuroinflammation and support neurological health.

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Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) has gained attention for its various potential therapeutic uses:

1. Autoimmune Diseases: LDN has shown promise in treating autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus. It is thought to modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
2. Chronic Pain Conditions: It is used off-label to manage chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). LDN may help by altering pain perception and reducing inflammation.
3. Cancer: Some research suggests that LDN may have potential in cancer treatment, possibly by enhancing the immune system’s ability to target cancer cells and reducing side effects of conventional treatments.
4. Mental Health Conditions: LDN is being investigated for its effects on mood disorders, including depression and anxiety. Its role in modulating the opioid system and affecting neuroinflammation might be beneficial.
5. Neurological Conditions: Beyond MS, LDN is also being studied for other neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, due to its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Digestive Disorders: LDN might have therapeutic potential in conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, where it may help to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.

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Overall LDN overall is very safe. Common side effects may include bizarre dreams and headache when first starting. This improves over time. The longer someone takes LDN, the greater the anti-inflammatory benefits.  LDN is obtained by prescription through a compounding pharmacy.