The Surprising Role of Low-Dose Naltrexone in Treating Cancer in Pets

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Today, I want to talk about something incredible—a drug called naltrexone, which is primarily used for opiate addiction in humans, but is now being successfully utilized in treating cancer in both dogs and humans.

What is Naltrexone?

Naltrexone is traditionally known as an opiate antagonist. It works by blocking the effects of opiates, such as the “high" or the cravings associated with opiate addiction. However, recent studies have shown that when naltrexone is used in very low doses, it offers a range of surprising benefits, especially when it comes to cancer treatment.

At these low doses—between 0.5 and 1.5 milligrams—naltrexone acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, which has been shown to affect cancer cells in several beneficial ways. It’s especially interesting because this treatment can stimulate the immune system, upregulating cells such as killer T-cells, which play a crucial role in attacking cancer cells.

How Does Low-Dose Naltrexone Work for Cancer?

Low-dose naltrexone is typically administered in cycles, with treatments given for three days, followed by three days off. This method has shown to significantly slow cancer cell growth, and in some cases, it even helps the immune system become more active against the cancer.

One of the first studies involving low-dose naltrexone came from Penn State, where Dr. Ian Zagon and his team studied its effects on neuroblastoma tumors in mice. Their results were remarkable: the incidence of cancer in mice treated with low-dose naltrexone decreased by 66%. Furthermore, among the mice that did develop the tumor, the growth was slowed by 98%.

Success Stories in Veterinary Medicine

In 2018, a study was conducted on dogs with mammary carcinoma (breast cancer). The dogs were treated with chemotherapy (carboplatin) combined with low-dose naltrexone. The results were impressive: the dogs that received this combination had longer survival times and responded much better to chemotherapy. Not only did they have longer remission periods, but they also experienced fewer recurrences. Owners also reported that their pets seemed to be happier and had a better quality of life while undergoing chemotherapy.

Low-dose naltrexone has also shown promise in treating other cancers such as lymphoma and soft tissue cancers, including carcinomas, nasal cancers, and oral cancers.

Beyond Cancer: Other Uses of Low-Dose Naltrexone in Veterinary Medicine

Low-dose naltrexone isn’t just effective in cancer treatment. It’s also being used to treat chronic pain, particularly in dogs with arthritis, as well as inflammatory diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It works by initially blocking the production of endorphins, and as a result, the body produces something called endorphin-stimulating factor. This process ultimately leads to increased production of endorphins, which are known to improve mood and reduce pain.

Why Low-Dose Naltrexone Could Be a Game Changer

As you may know, dealing with cancer—whether in humans or animals—is incredibly difficult, especially when it reaches advanced stages. Many cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, come with harsh side effects. The great thing about low-dose naltrexone is that it can be added to existing cancer treatments to potentially improve outcomes. By boosting the body’s endorphins and enhancing immune function, it not only helps with the emotional toll of fighting cancer but also contributes to a better overall response to chemotherapy.

Could Naltrexone Be Right for Your Pet?

If your dog or cat is dealing with cancer, particularly lymphoma or fibrosarcoma (a type of sarcoma in cats), it may be worth discussing low-dose naltrexone with your veterinarian. Given its potential to slow tumor growth, enhance immune function, and improve the quality of life during chemotherapy, this is an option you may want to explore.

Thank you so much for watching this edition of “Energy Secrets" on the use of low-dose naltrexone for cancer. If you found this information helpful, click the subscribe button, hit the bell for notifications, and don’t forget to click the link in the box below for a free copy of my book!