Is Low-Dose Naltrexone Safe for Artificial Heart Valve Recipients?

Q: I have read that Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN) should not be taken by people who have had organ transplants. Does this include an artificial aortic heart valve? Also, does it affect INR levels and should Warfarin dosage need to be readjusted?
Low-dose naltrexone is a specially compounded capsule of 1.5 to 4.5 mg of naltrexone and is used in treating chronic medical conditions. It acts by reducing inflammation of the central nervous system.
Lisa Lilienfield, M.D.: The short answer is that Low-Dose Naltrexone should not be taken by someone on immunosuppressant drugs because it boosts the immune system by stimulating the body’s own endorphins. There are no known interactions with Coumadin but it is always a good idea to check the INR more often when starting a new medication. Therefore if someone has a valve replacement, yet is not on an immunosuppressants, LDN should be safe.
– Dr. Lilienfield