Faculty Sponsor

Jana Stedman

College

College of Nursing & Health Professions (CONHP)

Department/Program

Physician Assistant Program

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Summer 7-23-2025

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to compare and evaluate current research on the use and efficacy of low dose naltrexone (LDN) in reducing pain symptoms in patients with fibromyalgia (FM).

Methods: A literature review was conducted using Google Scholar, PubMed, and an Valparaiso University's library database. Search items included "low dose naltrexone" and "fibromyalgia." Studies were included if they focused on LDN treatment in FM populations, emphasizing symptom outcomes and safety profiles. Eligible publications comprised randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and clinical studies.

Results: Five studies met inclusion criteria: one randomized, double-blind trial, three systematic reviews, and one randomized, single-blinded clinical trial. Overall, evidence suggests that LDN may be more effective than placebo in alleviating FM symptoms. One study did not show significant improvement in FIQR (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire Revised) and SPIR (Summed Pain Intensity Ratings), although outliers strongly influenced findings. Another trial demonstrated improvement in pressure pain thresholds (PPT) and overall pain ratings but found no significant changes in FIQR or PCS scores, while reporting a low side effect profile. A systematic review cited low-grade evidence for LDN in FM. Another review could not perform a meta-analysis due to high heterogeneity but concluded LDN appears safe and potentially effective. Lastly, a randomized trial exploring optimal dosing observed improvement in tenderness, sleep quality, and energy levels as secondary outcomes.

Conclusion: LDN appears to be a safe and potentially effective option for fibromyalgia symptom relief with minimal side effects. Given its favorable safety profile, LDN may be considered when conventional treatments fail. Further high-quality trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and compare it with established FM therapies.

Keywords: fibromyalgia, low dose naltrexone, pain management, central sensitization, FIQR, SPIR, PPT

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Lauren Bartlett has a special interest in emergency medication and plans on working in the northwest Indiana or Milwaukee area following graduation. She will be presenting Exploring Therapeutic Potential for Low Dose Naltrexone for Fibromyalgia Patients because she has a special interest in pain management and improved quality of life for patients with various rheumatologic conditions.

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