How to Start The Sinclair Method: A Step-By-Step Guide

The Sinclair Method (TSM) is a scientifically backed approach to reducing alcohol dependency, using a method known as pharmacological extinction. By using medication to block the endorphin rush that accompanies alcohol consumption, research shows that TSM can help most people reduce their drinking over time.

For those seeking an alternative treatment that promotes drink reduction rather than total abstinence from alcohol, TSM can be a great option.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can start the Sinclair Method 👇

Step 1: Understanding the Sinclair Method

Before embarking on the Sinclair Method, it's essential to understand its basis and how it differs from abstinence-based programs. TSM relies on the use of naltrexone, a non-addictive, FDA-approved medication that blocks opioid receptors in the brain. Following TSM, naltrexone is taken one hour before drinking alcohol. This process helps to gradually reduce cravings and the pleasure derived from alcohol, leading to a natural decrease in consumption.

Resources where you can learn more about the Sinclair Method:

• Free video course: Is the Sinclair Method Right for Me?
• Book: The Cure for Alcoholism by Dr Roy Eskapa
• Documentary: One Little Pill
• Very Well Mind Article: How the Sinclair Method for Alcohol Addiction Recovery Works
• Learn more about the Sinclair Method

To learn more about how TSM differs from abstinence, check out this 3 minute video by Thrive's co-founder and TSM Success Story, Katie Lain 👇

Step 2: Consultation with a Healthcare Professional

Once you decide that the Sinclair Method is the right treatment for you, the next step is to obtain a prescription for the medication naltrexone.

You'll need to schedule a consultation with a healthcare professional experienced in the Sinclair Method. While any doctor can prescribe naltrexone, some doctors may be unwilling to prescribe for various reasons, including lack of experience or awareness with this treatment method. 

When you join Thrive's program, we make it really easy for you to meet with an online doctor that specializes in naltrexone for alcohol use disorder. The physician will evaluate your situation, discuss the potential benefits and side effects of naltrexone, and determine if naltrexone and TSM is the right approach for you. 

Click here to see the estimated costs of the physician visit and naltrexone when you join Thrive.

If you want to ask your own doctor for a prescription to naltrexone, we recommend bringing in a research paper that demonstrates the efficacy of this medication for treating alcohol use disorder. 

Step 3: Joining a Support Program

Upon deciding to proceed with TSM, the next step is to ensure that you have the proper guidance and support throughout your treatment. TSM needs time to work, and research shows that people have better results when the medication is combined with support that promotes drink reduction, rather than abstinence. 

Our program at Thrive is designed to support individuals through their journey with TSM, providing resources such as:

• Access to licensed medical professionals for naltrexone prescriptions
• Ongoing support and coaching to address behavioral aspects of alcohol dependency
• Educational materials to better understand TSM and how it works
• A community of individuals also using TSM, offering peer support and shared experiences

Click here to join Thrive today.

Here's what you can expect when you join 👇

Step 4: Starting Medication

Once a doctor has prescribe you the naltrexone medication, this is where you officially begin the Sinclair Method treatment. 🥳

You'll begin taking the medication as directed by your healthcare provider.

The Sinclair Method protocol usually involves taking a naltrexone pill one hour before the first drink alcoholic of the day. According to the Sinclair Method research, generally naltrexone is not taken on non-drinking days.

While this treatment protocol is fairly simple (ie, naltrexone + 1 hour + drink), it’s crucial to adhere to it consistently over the long-term for TSM to be effective. Inside of the book, "The Cure for Alcoholism," this is called "The Golden Rule" of the treatment. Without proper compliance over the long-term, most people will not see substantial results.

Step 5: Maintaining Realistic Expectations

We always like to remind people that the Sinclair Method is not an instant fix – this protocol needs time to work (we typically tell our program members to give it a year).

Sometimes when people don't understand this aspect of the treatment, they will stop it prematurely, without ever giving it a chance to work.

☝️ Remember, it took most of us years or decades to develop alcohol use disorder, it will take time to reverse it as well. It's important to maintain realistic expectations so you don't give up too soon.

READ: 5 Ways to Know That The Sinclair Method is Working

Know that substantial changes in drinking levels take time with this treatment. But what's great about TSM is that most people do see really encouraging, gradual changes throughout their journey.

Check out this short video so you understand what to expect with TSM 👇

Step 6: Monitoring and Adjusting

As you proceed with TSM, it's important to monitor your alcohol intake and observe any changes in your cravings or consumption patterns, as well as your number of alcohol-free days.

Usually the changes people see in their drinking with this treatment are gradual but continuous. 

READ: Early Signs The Sinclair Method Is Working

Most people who go on TSM have a goal to reduce their drinking rather than abstain from alcohol – so the goals with this treatment look different than they do from traditional abstinence-based treatment programs which require total abstinence as a measure of success. Rather, TSM is about helping people gradually cut back their drinking over time, while creating healthier habits and coping skills.

The Thrive program offers tools and support to help track your progress and adjust your plan as needed...all inside a judgment-free support program. Regular check-ins with our coaches and your healthcare provider will ensure that the method is working for you and make any necessary adjustments to your medication or approach.

Step 7: Engaging with Support and Resources

An integral part of the Thrive program is the support and resources it provides. Engaging with group coaching, educational workshops, and the community can:

• encourage you along the way and celebrate your successes!
• be a source of support on the good and bad days
• offer strategies to manage triggers without always leaning on alcohol
• find new ways to deal with stress and life challenges
• help you recognize and maintain progress

Our members tell us that having the chance to connect with others who are also using TSM is an invaluable source of support as well.

If you're doing TSM away from Thrive, it's still important that you plug into therapy, a community or support as you navigate this significant lifestyle change. Some people find support through a therapist, an online forum, a local church or community.

Wherever YOU feel supported, seen, and heard is the best place for you! We just encourage you to seek support, and don't isolate and do this treatment all by yourself. The medication is powerful, but it's not the whole picture. 

Step 8: Celebrate Your Small Wins! 🎉

As mentioned above, most often the changes people see in their drinking and relationship with alcohol through TSM can be gradual and subtle, but they are usually continuous.

Inside Thrive's program, we're always encouraging our members to recognize and celebrate their "Small Wins" on TSM because usually success on this method is a series of small changes that add up over time.

So, don't ignore the changes you're seeing...even if they seem small.

Step 9: Reflecting on Progress and Setting Goals

Throughout your journey with TSM, take time to reflect on your progress and set future goals. These can be goals around your drink reduction, but they can also be life goals that you desire to achieve once problem drinking is behind you. Whether you're doing TSM to reduce your drinking to a safer level, or you desire to go completely alcohol-free in the future, having goals in mind can help you stay focused and motivated... and ultimately create a life that revolves less around drinking. 🤗

Conclusion

The Sinclair Method offers a viable and effective option for those looking to reduce their alcohol consumption without the need for total abstinence. By joining the Thrive program, individuals can receive the guidance, support, and resources necessary to navigate this journey successfully. If you're ready to take the first step towards a healthier relationship with alcohol, click here to learn more about the Thrive program and how to get started today.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is not for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a healthcare professional for any medical concerns. Do not ignore or delay seeking medical advice based on what you read here.