Low-Dose Naltrexone for Itch in Scleroderma
Author Information
Author(s): Tracy Frech, Kirsten Novak, Monica P. Revelo, Maureen Murtaugh, Boaz Markewitz, Nathan Hatton, Mary Beth Scholand, Edward Frech, David Markewitz, Allen D. Sawitzke
Primary Institution: University of Utah
Hypothesis
Low-dose naltrexone may be a reasonable agent to treat pruritus in systemic sclerosis.
Conclusion
This small case series suggests that low-dose naltrexone may be an effective and tolerable treatment for pruritus and gastrointestinal symptoms in systemic sclerosis.
Supporting Evidence
- All patients reported an improvement in pruritus after initiating low-dose naltrexone.
- In two patients, pruritus completely resolved on low-dose naltrexone.
- All patients reported feeling that their skin was softer after treatment.
Takeaway
The study looked at three women with a skin disease who had a lot of itching. They tried a low-dose medicine called naltrexone, and it helped them feel better.
Methodology
This was a case series involving three patients who were treated with low-dose naltrexone and assessed for changes in pruritus and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the subjective nature of self-reported symptoms.
Limitations
The study involved a small number of patients and lacked a control group.
Participant Demographics
All participants were white females aged between 34 and 56.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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