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Naltrexone Utilization Along Its Dosing Spectrum - A Literature Review

DOI: 10.70390/​​​G6MR

Abstract

Naltrexone, a widely recognized opioid receptor antagonist, has been primarily used at standard doses of 50–100 mg daily to treat opioid and alcohol use disorders. Recent studies, however, reveal its versatility across a broader dosing spectrum. This review examines the therapeutic effects and safety profiles of naltrexone across three dosing strategies: standard doses for substance use disorders, low-dose naltrexone (LDN, 1–5 mg/day) for chronic pain and autoimmune diseases, and ultra-low-dose naltrexone (ULDN, microgram levels) as a complement to opioid therapy. However, naltrexone’s role in reducing opioid misuse among those with a history of dependency remains limited. Our results serve to highlight naltrexone’s expanding clinical applications and highlights the need for further research to optimize its use across diverse dosing regimens and conditions.