Naltrexone, the primary medication in the Sinclair Method, is considered safe when combined with many common medications, including antidepressants. A healthcare provider helps monitor for potential interactions and ensure that all medications work together effectively and safely. One of the primary challenges is the necessity for high levels of patient adherence to the medication regimen, as skipping doses undermines the effectiveness of the treatment.
Can TSM lead to complete abstinence?
- A healthcare provider must assess suitability, including obtaining baseline liver function tests (LFTs).
- Find rehab for yourself or a loved one by speaking with a treatment provider.
- He has a nursing and business/technology degrees from The Johns Hopkins University.
- No, the Sinclair Method does not require complete abstinence from alcohol.
The method is based on the premise that alcoholism is a disease that is caused by a build-up of endorphins in the brain. Sinclair developed a treatment plan that involves taking a daily medication called naltrexone, which blocks the action of endorphins. The theory is that by blocking the action of endorphins, the urge to drink alcohol will be reduced and eventually eliminated. The Sinclair Method is the primary way for using naltrexone to treat Alcohol Use Disorder. This method entails taking naltrexone around an hour before consuming alcohol. Unlike standard treatments, which emphasize complete abstinence, TSM allows people with AUD to continue drinking while the drug reduces the rewarding effects of alcohol.
How Naltrexone Works in the Brain
Taking naltrexone an hour before drinking prevents these endorphins from creating the pleasurable “buzz” that reinforces habitual drinking. This quiet, steady shift in how the brain responds to alcohol is remarkable. It challenges the long-held belief sinclair method that addiction recovery must rely on abstinence alone and opens the door to new, science-backed approaches that focus on changing the brain’s relationship with alcohol itself. A healthcare provider must confirm the absence of certain contraindications before starting the regimen. Since the drug is metabolized by the liver, it is strictly contraindicated in patients with acute hepatitis or severe liver failure.
What Is ‘the Sinclair Method’ and Does It Work?
Compared to the long-term damage alcohol has on the liver, Naltrexone medication using TSM is extremely safe. Other symptoms experienced on Naltrexone can include nausea, headaches, low energy, etc. and are usually mild and will decrease over time. We understand the challenges of struggling with alcohol and the journey to overcome them. With our virtual alcohol help, you can join a supportive community of people who are committed to making positive lifestyle changes together. Our program offers private, online alcohol care that’s accessible from anywhere—whether through our app or your computer. Halfway house It’s designed to seamlessly integrate into your life, allowing you to make meaningful changes without having to tell anyone about it (unless you choose to).
Calls to any general helpline will be answered by treatment providers, each of which https://ecosoberhouse.com/ is a paid advertiser. Calls to numbers on a specific treatment center listing will be routed to that treatment center. Detox and inpatient therapy could be tailored, then a one-size-fits-all approach with emphasis on the Twelve Steps. ✓ 100% editorially independent with no provider affiliations Your needs, not outside interests, drive every recommendation. ❗ Finding a knowledgeable doctor can be challenging – Not all physicians are familiar with TSM.