Why the Sinclair Method (TSM) Might Not Be Working for You

Introduction 

The Sinclair Method (TSM) is a science-backed approach that has helped thousands of people reduce their drinking with the medication naltrexone. However, some people find that it’s not working as expected—they may still feel cravings, drink more than they want to, or see slow progress.

If you’re struggling with TSM not working, don’t worry! Let’s go over the most common reasons this happens and what you can do to get back on track.

1. Are You Taking Naltrexone 100% of the Time Before Drinking?

One of the most critical parts of TSM is ensuring you take naltrexone before every single drinking occasion. Missing even one dose, not taking it correctly, often enough and as prescribed can reinforce old drinking patterns and slow progress.

Brian Noonan, a medical professional specializing in TSM, emphasizes:

"Short of perfection, TSM might not work as intended. Even occasional missed doses can slow or reverse progress."

💡 Solution: Set alarms, use an app, or keep naltrexone in places where you’ll see it before drinking—like your kitchen or wallet—to ensure you never miss a dose.

2. Are You Drinking for Reward or for Relief?

TSM works best for people who drink for the pleasurable, euphoric effects of alcohol. However, if you drink to relieve stress, anxiety, or help you sleep, naltrexone may take longer to work because it doesn’t block alcohol’s sedative effects.

Dr. Joseph Volpicelli explains:

"For many people who lose control over their drinking, it's because alcohol provides energy and stimulation by releasing endorphins and dopamine. But some drink for the sedative effects—to relax or sleep. Naltrexone is more effective for the first group than the second."

💡 Solution: If you drink mainly for relaxation, consider adding alternative stress-management tools like exercise, mindfulness, or therapy to help change your drinking habits.

3. TSM Takes Time—Have You Given It Long Enough?

Many people expect immediate results, but TSM is a gradual process. While some see changes within weeks, for others, it can take 6-12 months or more to see significant progress.

💡 Solution: Track your drinking habits over time. Many people don’t notice progress until they look back at their logs and see they’re drinking less than before.

4. Are You Stuck in Habit-Driven Drinking?

Naltrexone helps weaken alcohol cravings, but if drinking is an ingrained habit, the brain may still push you to drink even when cravings are reduced. Breaking these automatic drinking patterns is key.

Brian Noonan shares:

"For some people, TSM removes the cravings, but they continue drinking out of habit. This is why behavior change alongside naltrexone is essential."

💡 Solution: Try making small changes to interrupt your routine—switch up your drinking environment, delay your first drink, or replace alcohol with another activity to weaken automatic drinking habits.

5. Are You Tracking Your Progress?

Progress on TSM isn’t always obvious at first. If you’re not tracking your drinking, it’s easy to feel like nothing is changing—even when it is.

💡 Solution: Keep a drink log to monitor changes over time. Even small reductions in alcohol consumption show that TSM is working. Over time, these small changes add up to big results.

6. Are You Using Support to Stay on Track?

TSM is effective, but having a support system—whether it’s coaching, therapy, or a TSM community—can greatly improve success by helping you stay motivated and accountable.

💡 Solution: Consider joining a support group, working with a TSM coach, or participating in our Thrive Membership program to get guidance and encouragement along the way.

Final Thoughts

If TSM isn’t working as fast as you’d like, don’t lose hope! Making small adjustments—like tracking progress, staying consistent, and changing drinking habits—can help you succeed in the long run.

For more guidance, check out our Thrive Membership program, where we offer expert support, resources, and a community of people on the same journey.

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.