Developed by Dr. David Sinclair, a Finnish-American researcher, TSM is rooted in neuroscience and behavioral science. Dr. Sinclair’s https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/what-is-the-sinclair-method-for-alcohol-addiction-recovery/ work demonstrated that blocking the brain’s opioid receptors with medication like naltrexone could weaken the reinforcement of alcohol-related behaviors, gradually reducing consumption and dependency. His research laid the foundation for this innovative method, emphasizing its potential to treat AUD effectively while preserving patient autonomy.

Common Challenges on TSM

Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors. For those seeking addiction treatment for themselves or a loved one, our calls are confidential and are available for 24/7 help.

• The Sinclair Method is an option if you want to reduce your drinking, but don’t necessarily want to abstain from alcohol altogether.
• Take the first step toward recovery with peace of mind, knowing exactly what your plan covers.
• The Sinclair Method (TSM) is a proven, science-backed approach to treating alcohol use disorder.
• This is known as pharmacological extinction, in which the conditioned response -pleasure from drinking- decreases when the reinforcing effects are continuously avoided.
• This activity reduces the enjoyment and beneficial effects of drinking, therefore lowering cravings and, eventually, alcohol intake.

Coaching & Group Support

Conversely, taking naltrexone on non-drinking days is not strictly required by TSM, though some do so if they suspect an unplanned event might involve alcohol. It’s important to note that achieving the “extinction” of cravings, the primary goal of the method, takes longer for some individuals, especially for those with long-standing or more severe alcohol use disorders​. Yes, TSM can be used with other medications, but compatibility depends on the specific drugs involved. 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. Many forms of addiction treatment rely on the strategy of sobriety or abstinence.

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You don’t need to have serious health or behavioral concerns to want to quit or moderate your alcohol intake. You might not like alcohol’s effect on you or you think that your drinking is inconsistent with your values. Regardless of your reason for wanting to change your relationship with alcohol, there are options for help. In the field of psychology, this approach is also consistent with the behavioral principles that are related to extinction, so it is not only pharmacological but also psychological extinction. The Sinclair Method (TSM) is a new way to treat Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) that uses drugs, specifically naltrexone, to promote recovery.

• If you miss a dose of naltrexone, the first thing you should do is take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to the time for your next dose.
• The method is used when patients want increased control over problematic drinking patterns.
• The route depends on personal values, physical health, and the trajectory of progress.
• The Sinclair Method1 is meant for individuals who may not want to or are not ready to cut out alcohol entirely, but want to drink less.

Patients are instructed to take the medication as directed and adhere to the dosing protocol. In a nutshell, the Sinclair Method (TSM) is a medication-assisted, evidence-based form of treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Via the use of the prescription drug naltrexone, TSM addresses the reward pathways of the brain involved in substance dependence (1). Research also suggests that it can be very effective in helping people reduce their drinking. According to Sinclair’s own research, the use of naltrexone in the treatment of alcohol use disorder can have a 78% efficacy rate.

While naltrexone can help reduce cravings, it’s important to understand why we’re drinking in the first place. For instance, many of us turn to alcohol out of boredom, to numb our feelings, or for social reasons. The Sinclair method is based on the theory of extinction, which means slowly reducing the amount of alcohol over time. It does not mean that you have to quit drinking (unless you choose to) but instead focuses on reducing alcohol consumption in a healthy manner. Unlike traditional abstinence-based methods, TSM does not require you to quit drinking immediately. Instead, it allows for a gradual reduction in alcohol consumption, giving individuals the flexibility to either moderate or work toward long-term sobriety.

Regain Control Achieve Lasting

Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or premature death. However, please remember that the information on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace or substitute for any medical or other advice. If you have specific concerns or a situation arises in which you require medical advice, you should consult with an appropriately trained and qualified medical services provider. According to Dr. David Sinclair, if you continue drinking, you must always take naltrexone beforehand to prevent relapse. However, some doctors also use it to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD), as it helps rebalance chemicals in the brain and correct the electrical activity of brain cells.

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The activity (the drinking of the alcohol) coupled with the reward (that good feeling) leads to what’s called positive reinforcement (11). But alcohol acts upon the reward pathways in the brain, causing the release of endorphins. TSM, developed by Dr. John Sinclair, actually relies on continued consumption of alcohol — at least at first — to work. Researchers Alcoholics Anonymous say evidence does not support abstinence as being the only treatment approach (2). As Verywell Review Board Member Dr. John Umhau notes in an article published in Advances in Addiction & Recovery, the Sinclair Method requires a lifetime commitment.