Got questions about The Sinclair Method (TSM)? Below are answers to the most common ones! If you don’t find what you’re looking for, learn more on our What is The Sinclair Method? page.

Medical Disclaimer: This page provides general information about The Sinclair Method and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions about medication or treatment.

Getting Started with TSM

What is The Sinclair Method?

TSM is an evidence-based treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) that uses naltrexone to gradually reduce alcohol cravings over time. Unlike traditional abstinence-based methods, TSM allows people to keep drinking while retraining their brain to unlearn compulsive alcohol use.

🔗 Learn more on our page: What is The Sinclair Method?

How long does it take to see results with TSM?

It varies! Some people see small changes in weeks, but full pharmacological extinction (where cravings are gone) often takes 6-12 months.

🔗 Read more about the TSM timeline here

Can I use TSM if I don’t drink every day?

Yes! TSM works for both daily and occasional drinkers—as long as naltrexone is taken before drinking.

🔗 Learn how TSM works for different drinking patterns here

Can I use TSM if I want to quit drinking completely?

Absolutely! Many people use TSM to reduce drinking gradually until they naturally reach abstinence. If you prefer to quit drinking right away, talk with your doctor about using naltrexone with abstinence instead.

🔗 Read more about using naltrexone to quit alcohol here

Using Naltrexone on TSM

How do I get a prescription for naltrexone?

✔️ Thrive members receive referrals to telemedicine doctors who prescribe naltrexone for TSM.
✔️ Some general practitioners may also prescribe it, but not all are familiar with TSM.

🔗 See options for getting a prescription here

What if my doctor won’t prescribe naltrexone?

Not all doctors are familiar with TSM. If your doctor is hesitant, consider:
✔️ Bringing research articles on TSM to your appointment
✔️ Seeking a telemedicine doctor who specializes in naltrexone treatment

🔗 Join Thrive to access TSM-friendly doctors here

When do I take naltrexone?

Most people take 50mg 1-2 hours before drinking, but always follow your doctor’s guidance.

🔗 More on naltrexone dosage and timing here

What if I forget to take naltrexone before drinking?

Missing a dose doesn’t undo all progress, but consistently taking it before drinking is key. If you forget:
✔️ Ask your doctor if you should take it after you’ve already started drinking
✔️ Make a plan to ensure you don’t forget next time

🔗 What to do if you miss a dose of naltrexone here

Do I take naltrexone every day? What about alcohol-free days?

According to TSM, naltrexone is taken only on drinking days. But of course, follow your doctor's guidance here.

🔗 Read more about naltrexone and alcohol-free days here

How long does naltrexone last in the body? What about re-dosing?

The half-life of naltrexone varies between 4-13 hours, depending on factors like age and metabolism. Work with your doctor on dosing and re-dosing if needed.

🔗 More about naltrexone half-life and re-dosing here

Common Challenges on TSM

What are the most common mistakes on The Sinclair Method?

• Skipping doses or not taking naltrexone before drinking
• Drinking too soon after taking the pill (it needs at least an hour)
• Not tracking progress—keeping a drink log helps!
• Expecting instant results—TSM is a gradual process

🔗 Learn about common TSM mistakes and how to avoid them here

What if my drinking increases on TSM?

Some people temporarily drink more in the early weeks due to old habits or stress triggers.
✔️ Stay consistent with naltrexone
✔️ Track drinking patterns
✔️ Seek support if needed

🔗 Learn how Thrive's program can help you handle the ups and downs of TSM here

Can I drink hard liquor on TSM?

Yes, but some people find that spirits affect them differently. Adjusting your drinking habits can help.

🔗 Does TSM work differently for beer, wine, or spirits? Learn more here.

Can you still get drunk on naltrexone?

Yes—naltrexone blocks the reinforcement of alcohol but does not prevent intoxication.

🔗 More on drinking and intoxication on TSM here

Long-Term Success with TSM

What is pharmacological extinction?

This is the process of unlearning alcohol cravings by taking naltrexone before drinking. Over time, the brain stops associating alcohol with pleasure, reducing cravings naturally.

🔗 Read more about pharmacological extinction here

How effective is The Sinclair Method?

Studies show TSM has a 78% success rate when followed correctly. Compliance is key!

🔗 More on TSM success rates and research here

Do I need to take naltrexone for the rest of my life?

According to Dr. David Sinclair, if you continue drinking, you must always take naltrexone beforehand to prevent relapse. If you become fully alcohol-free, you may no longer need it.

🔗 Learn more about this in the book, "The Cure for Alcoholism" by Dr. Roy Eskapa

What’s the best way to track my progress on TSM?

Keeping a drink log helps! Many people use:
📊 Drink tracking apps
📔 Journals
📈 Spreadsheets

🔗 Get free drink log templates here

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

TSM is a powerful, science-backed method for reducing alcohol cravings over time. Success comes down to:
✔️ Taking naltrexone before drinking, every time
✔️ Giving it time to work—this isn’t an overnight fix
✔️ Tracking progress and adjusting habits

🔗 For more in-depth information, learn more about the Sinclair Method here.

Medical Disclaimer: The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this platform.