How Naltrexone May Support Eating Behavior and Cravings: Real-World Reports and Clinical Insights

Carson @ Eden

May 5, 2025

Last Updated:

Weight Loss

10 min read

Low-dose naltrexone may help support behavioral eating patterns and reduce food-related cravings. Discover how licensed healthcare providers on the Eden platform guide its use as part of personalized support plans.

Key takeaways

Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) may help support control over eating behaviors and reduce food-related reward seeking, when guided by a licensed healthcare provider.
Clinical trials on a branded combination of naltrexone and bupropion (Contrave) have shown 5–10% average weight reduction over 6–12 months, when combined with behavioral interventions. This product differs in dosage and formulation from compounded naltrexone used in Eden plans.
The compounded low-dose naltrexone used in Eden’s provider MedKits is not equivalent to Contrave and may be used at lower doses as part of behavior-focused support strategies directed by licensed healthcare providers.
Although individual experiences vary, many individuals report improved control over eating habits and more consistent routines within 4–8 weeks.

What Is Naltrexone and How Might It Support Eating Behaviors?

Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist that is FDA-approved at higher doses (typically 50 mg) for treating alcohol and opioid dependence. At much lower doses (1.5–4.5 mg), some clinicians believe it may influence:

Endorphin feedback
Dopamine signaling in brain reward pathways
Behaviors associated with habitual or emotional eating

These mechanisms may support individuals seeking behavioral change around food.

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Important safety information

What the Clinical Data Shows

The most substantial evidence supporting naltrexone’s role in weight-related outcomes comes from studies of Contrave®—a fixed-dose, FDA-approved combination of naltrexone and bupropion.

Average body weight reductions ranged from 5–10% over 6–12 months
Emotional and reward-based food cravings decreased
Results improved with concurrent behavioral and clinical guidance

These results pertain specifically to the branded formulation and not to the low-dose compounded version used in Eden licensed healthcare provided MedKits.
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What Individuals May Notice Over Time

Although experiences vary, individuals working with a licensed healthcare provider may report:

Weeks 1–2: Adjustment phase with possible side effects (e.g., vivid dreams, nausea)
Weeks 3–4: Enhanced awareness and control of food triggers
Weeks 5–8: Fewer episodes of craving-based eating
Weeks 9–12: More consistent eating habits and improved routine

Progress is typically tracked based on behavior change rather than weight alone.
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How Naltrexone May Be Used in Eden MedKits

Licensed healthcare providers on the Eden platform may include low-dose naltrexone in behavior-focused support kits. These may also include:

Inositol
Acetyl-L-carnitine
B vitamins
Acarbose or Orlistat (when clinically indicated)

All medications are compounded into once-daily capsules and may be adjusted based on clinical feedback.
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Safety and Considerations

Low-dose naltrexone is not appropriate for everyone. It may not be suitable for individuals who:

Use opioid medications
Have liver impairment
Are pregnant or breastfeeding (unless approved by a provider)

Most side effects are mild and temporary and may include nausea, vivid dreams, or mood sensitivity.
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Disclaimer

Low-dose naltrexone is not FDA-approved for weight management, appetite control, or behavioral modification. Eden offers compounded formulations by prescription from licensed healthcare providers, filled by accredited compounding pharmacies. Results vary. Referenced clinical data pertains to FDA-approved products that differ in dosage and formulation, including Contrave® (naltrexone/bupropion extended-release tablets).
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Curious whether a personalized plan that may include low-dose naltrexone might support your eating habits or craving patterns?
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Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.