Long Term Side Effects of Naltrexone for People Using the Sinclair Method

A common question people have when they are starting on naltrexone for problem drinking is, "What are the long term side effects of the medication?"

When someone is using naltrexone and The Sinclair Method to drink less, usually their doctor with advise them to stay on the medication long term if they continue to consume alcohol.

The thought of being on a medication long-term can feel intimidating at times – especially when you're just learning about it.

But from my personal experience with the medication, and hearing from countless others, the BENEFITS of naltrexone far outweigh any "costs" associated with taking the medication long term.

So, are there long term side effects of the medication?

According to nami.org, to date, there are no known problems associated with long term use of naltrexone. 🥳

However everyone is different, which is why naltrexone must be prescribed by a physician who will first evaluate you to make sure you're a candidate for the medication.

☝️ It's important to note as well that naltrexone has been FDA-approved for treating alcohol use disorder since 1994. 

In our program, we specialize in supporting people using The Sinclair Method and can refer you to a telemedicine doctor who can consult you on the use of naltrexone following the Sinclair Method. 

I have observed that for most people whose doctors have put them on this protocol, the longer they are doing the treatment, the LESS often they are taking the medication simply because they are drinking less often also.

In fact, once people reach their goals in our program, many people are drinking just a few times a month...so their doctor only has them taking the medication a few times a month also.

I know for me, once I experienced how naltrexone gave me my "off-switch" around alcohol, I NEVER wanted to miss a dose. It became my "protection" that gave me control when I drank.

So, I hope this helps you understand any long term side effects with naltrexone for people on the Sinclair Method. Again, according to research, most people do not have long-term side effects. And this medication has been clinically proven (since the 1990s) to be safe and highly effective at treating alcohol use disorder – especially when it's coupled with a treatment program that supports drink reduction.

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.