LDN Questions

[Guest guest]

I thought that I might find an informational FAQ for this group, but no such

luck. As a result, I'll probably ask many questions that have already been

answered. Nonetheless, I appreciate your help.

1) I am considering using LDN for ulcerative colitis. I realize that it is not

FDA approved for this use, so it will likely be extremely difficult to find a

physician who will prescribe it, not to mention get it covered by insurance.

I've heard of Skip's Pharmacy and other pharmacists who will fill it

over-the-counter. Can anyone give me specifics on these places and contact

info? How much does a typical " prescription " cost out of pocket? Has anyone

had any luck in getting insurance to pay for it?

2) What are the long term side effects of taking LDN? I've read about the short

term effects -- numerous sleep disturbances and " weird " dreams. Any others?

More importantly, does anyone know of the consequences of taking this medication

for years?

3) What is the correct dose to begin with? I recall reading that it comes in a

pill and cream form. Any difference in the effectiveness of the pill vs. the

cream? I am petite and wouldn't want to risk over-medicating myself -- always

the fear when you do this without a physician.

4) Does it work for a while, and then stop, like so many other UC drugs? i.e. I

understand that it helps your body produce endorphins. After a while, does it

lose its effect? Does your body stop producing endorphins, and/or adjust to the

medication so that it returns to its pre-LDN state? The studies that have been

done recently on LDN were very short term (4 weeks or so). Has anyone followed

up with the study patients over months/years?

5) How long does the medication take to take effect?

6) Do you start with a small dose and slowly start increasing it? If so, what

dose do you begin with, and by what increments do you increase it? What is the

max dose allowed before you risk over-medicating and/or over-dosing?

7) What are the warning flags that you need to reduce your dose or stop taking

LDN?

8) How long do you take it before determining that it may not be working?

9) How do you take the medicine, and when?

10) Is it assumed to be a short term drug that you must wean off of in a few

years?

Thanks,

Jill