Novel Treatment Using Low-Dose Naltrexone for Lichen Planopilaris

J Drugs Dermatol. 2017 Nov 1;16(11):1140-1142.

Abstract

<p>Lichen planopilaris (LPP) is a variant of lichen planus that affects the scalp causing scarring hair loss. Patients also frequently experience symptoms of scalp itch, pain, and burning. To date, there are no long-term remittive nor curative therapies available. Low-dose naltrexone has anti-inflammatory properties and has recently been described in the context of treating autoimmune conditions. This retrospective medical record review describes four LPP patients treated with low-dose (3 milligrams per day) naltrexone. This medication provided benefit in these four patients including reduction in symptoms of pruritus, clinical evidence of inflammation of the scalp, and disease progression. All patients tolerated naltrexone without adverse effects. This is the first case series demonstrating the beneficial effects of low-dose naltrexone for patients with LPP. This medication was well-tolerated by the patients and is cost-effective.</p> <p><em>J Drugs Dermatol. 2017;16(11):1140-1142.</em></p>.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Adult
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / administration & dosage
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Humans
  • Lichen Planus / drug therapy*
  • Lichen Planus / pathology
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Naltrexone / administration & dosage
  • Naltrexone / therapeutic use*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Scalp Dermatoses / drug therapy*
  • Scalp Dermatoses / pathology

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Naltrexone

Supplementary concepts

  • Lichen planus follicularis