Can Naltrexone Be Used
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Your body naturally makes endorphins in response to pleasure or even in response to self-injurious behavior. The runner's high is due to these endorphins. They are also extremely important in a healthy immune system.
These endogenous endorphins are very similar to illegal opioid drugs. They both act on opioid receptors (mu, kappa, and delta) in the body to cause a pleasurable experience.
Naltrexone is a medication that can block the opioid receptors and prevent the action of opioids. This medication is usually used in the withdrawal management of illicit drugs like morphine. This medication blocks the action of these drugs.
Many individuals with autism have elevated levels of endorphins. The mechanism for this increase is unknown. However, the opioid theory of autism states that these high levels of opioids contribute to the various symptoms of autism. If these levels can be reduced, then perhaps autism symptoms can be reduced.
To test this theory, individuals with autism were given low doses of naltrexone. They showed better eye contact, more socialization, normal pain sensitivity, less self-injurious behavior, and decreased stimming. More studies are needed to validate these results.
By the way, this medication in small doses has also been shown to help individuals with disorders of the immune system. These disorders include autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, HIV/AIDS, and cancer.
The most common side effects are nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and drowsiness. Since liver toxicity can occur, liver function tests are necessary before and during treatment.
Discuss your questions and concerns about this medication with your physician and your pharmacist.
Learn more about discount online pharmacy solutions for your medication.
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