The use of naltrexone in dermatology. Current evidence and future directions.

The use of naltrexone in dermatology. Current evidence and future directions. Curr Drug Targets. 2019 Mar 18;: Authors: Sikora M, Rakowska A, Olszewska M, Rudnicka L Abstract Naltrexone is a competitive opioid receptor antagonist approved as supportive treatment in alcohol dependence and opioid addiction. In a dose 50-100 mg daily, naltrexone is used off-label in dermatology for the treatment of trichotillomania and different types of pruritus. At a dose as low as 1-5 mg of drug per day, naltrexone demonstrates immunomodulatory action i.e. modulates Toll-like receptors signaling, decreases release of proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor, interleukin-6, interleukin-12), inhibits T lymphocyte proliferation, down-regulates the expression of chemokine receptors and adhesion molecules. The efficacy of standard and low doses of naltrexone in a variety of dermatological disorders has been reported. These include diseases such as familial benign chronic pemphigus (Hailey-Hailey disease), dermatomyositis, systemic sclerosis, psoriasis and lichen planopilaris. Optimistic preliminary findings, low cost of therapy and good tolerance make naltrexone a promising alternative therapy or adjunct drug in dermatology. PMID: 30887922 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Current Drug Targets - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Authors: Tags: Curr Drug Targets Source Type: research