Exploring Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) for PTSD: LDN Functional Medicine San Antonio

LDN PTSD

Posted by Dr. Yoon Hang Kim, MD

Understanding PTSD and the Role of LDN Therapy

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex, challenging condition that can persist long after traumatic experiences. Symptoms such as intrusive memories, heightened anxiety, mood swings, and sleep disturbances often diminish quality of life and make daily functioning difficult. Traditional therapies—such as SSRIs, SNRIs, CBT, and EMDR—can provide relief but may leave many patients seeking more complete, long-lasting solutions.

LDN PTSD San Antonio Functional Medicine is gaining attention as an innovative adjunct for those who have not found success with standard treatments. Low-dose naltrexone (LDN), prescribed in doses of 1-5 mg daily, is being recognized for its potential to modulate neuroinflammation, boost endorphin levels, and help restore emotional resilience.

How LDN Works for PTSD: Mechanisms at a Glance

LDN offers a science-backed, root-cause approach to PTSD—making it a powerful fit for the functional medicine philosophy. Here's how LDN may support recovery:

• Endorphin Enhancement: By briefly blocking opioid receptors, LDN triggers the body to produce more endorphins, the "feel good" brain chemicals needed for mood stability and emotional healing.

• Reduction of Neuroinflammation: LDN helps regulate microglial cells in the brain, suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines linked to hyperarousal, anxiety, and sleep disruption seen in PTSD.

• Balancing the Stress Response: LDN influences the HPA axis and kappa-opioid receptors, potentially easing chronic hypervigilance, dissociation, and emotional swings.

These unique mechanisms align with LDN PTSD San Antonio Functional Medicine principles of treating the whole person and targeting the root causes of illness, not just masking symptoms.

Clinical Evidence & Patient Experiences

While more comprehensive studies are underway, a growing body of reports supports the benefits of LDN for PTSD patients:

• Case Studies & Observational Research: Small studies have shown immediate and sustained improvements in PTSD symptoms, including reduced nightmares, better sleep, mood stabilization, and increased emotional clarity.

• Provider Insights: Functional medicine clinics in San Antonio have reported decreased anxiety, anger, and sleep issues in trauma survivors using LDN alongside conventional therapies.

• Individual Success Stories: Several documented patients, previously unresponsive to traditional pharmaceutical interventions, found significant relief and improved quality of life on LDN protocols.

While these results are promising, further large-scale research is needed to establish optimal dosing and long-term outcomes for PTSD.

Advantages of LDN in Functional Medicine for PTSD

Why consider LDN PTSD San Antonio Functional Medicine as part of your healing plan?

• Low-Risk Profile: LDN is generally well-tolerated, with minimal side effects such as mild sleep changes or vivid dreams during the first few weeks.

• Personalized Protocols: Dose titration (typically 1-4.5 mg nightly) allows for individualized treatment based on tolerance and symptom response.

• Suitable for Complex Cases: LDN can be used alongside psychotherapy and certain medications, making it adaptable for complex trauma and co-occurring conditions.

• Root-Cause Healing: Functional medicine strategies combine LDN with nutrition, stress management, and lifestyle changes for comprehensive, sustainable progress.

Dr. Yoon Hang Kim: Leading LDN San Antonio Functional Medicine Expert

Dr. Yoon Hang Kim, MD, is a pioneer in integrative and functional medicine with a strong clinical track record in using LDN for chronic neuroinflammatory conditions. With over two decades of experience and advanced fellowship training, Dr. Kim delivers:

• Expert LDN protocols for PTSD and trauma-related disorders

• Comprehensive functional medicine plans tailored to your unique needs

• Compassionate, personalized care via secure telemedicine, serving San Antonio and surrounding states (IL, MO, TX, GA, FL)

• Ongoing collaboration with patients to maximize safety, efficacy, and quality of life

Taking the Next Step

If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD and has not found relief with conventional treatment alone, LDN PTSD San Antonio Functional Medicine may offer new hope. Dr. Kim's advanced protocols integrate the latest evidence for LDN therapy with a holistic, patient-centered approach.

Schedule your consultation today to explore if LDN can support your journey to recovery.

Book online at www.directintegrativecare.com(http://www.directintegrativecare.com) for a personalized evaluation and to discuss innovative options tailored to your health goals.

References

• Low dose naltrexone in the treatment of dissociative symptoms – PubMed

• Low Dose Naltrexone: Effective PTSD Treatment Guide – LifeWell MD

• Understanding Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) – Intrepid Mental Wellness

  • Use of low-dose naltrexone in the management of post-traumatic stress disorder – PubMed

  • PTSD Medication – Belmar Pharma Solutions

  • Naltrexone LDN Depression Anxiety PTSD – TaubMD

• Off-Label Low-Dose Naltrexone for PTSD – ResearchGate

• PTSD – Pharmacotherapy – CAMH

• LDN Research Trust – Wiebke Pape, MD

• LDN and Mental Health – Nervana Medical

• Reddit Discussion: LDN for Dissociation/PTSD

  • Low Dose Naltrexone – Golden Cove Pharmacy

  • Concurrent Naltrexone and Prolonged Exposure Therapy – JAMA

  • Low Dose Naltrexone PTSD Insights – Vonage Pharma

  • LDN – Prescott Compounding Pharmacy

• The Emerging Role of LDN in Integrative Psychiatry

• LDN for Pain – Psychology Today

• LDN for Vulvodynia: A Case Series – ScienceDirect

• LDN – Taub Group, Charlotte

  • LDN Review of Therapeutic Utilization – MDPI

• PubMed Search: Low Dose Naltrexone PTSD

• Off-Label Low-Dose Naltrexone for PTSD (PDF) – ResearchGate

This blog is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting new treatments.