Navigating Alcohol Recovery: Naltrexone, Private Doctors, and Personalised Support
Key Takeaways
Naltrexone helps reduce alcohol cravings by blocking the brain’s opioid receptors.
Accessing Naltrexone in the UK often involves working with a private doctor familiar with alcohol recovery treatments.
Combining Naltrexone with 1-2-1 support significantly improves long-term recovery success.
The Sinclair Method (TSM) encourages taking Naltrexone before drinking to gradually reduce consumption.
Rethink Drink offers expert guidance, coaching, and medical access tailored to your recovery journey.
What Is Naltrexone and How Does It Help?
Naltrexone is a prescription medication used to reduce the desire to drink by blocking endorphins released when alcohol is consumed. This means individuals no longer receive the same “buzz” from drinking, which over time leads to a reduction in cravings and overall consumption.
It plays a central role in The Sinclair Method (TSM)—a science-backed approach that doesn’t require immediate sobriety, but instead allows you to drink while taking Naltrexone one hour before, gradually leading to “pharmacological extinction” of the addictive behaviour.
To understand how this process works in detail, you can visit our FAQ on Naltrexone and TSM.
Accessing Naltrexone in the UK: Why Private Doctors Matter
In the UK, Naltrexone is not always easily accessible through the NHS, especially for those not in abstinence-based treatment programmes. That’s where private doctors come in.
Here’s why private medical consultation is key:
Access to a prescription as GP's will generally not prescribe for The Sinclair Method due to lack of support here in UK.
Individual assessment to determine suitability based on medical history.
Support from professionals who understand the principles of The Sinclair Method.
Private doctors affiliated with recovery-focused services like Rethink Drink are trained to prescribe Naltrexone appropriately and safely. You can learn more through our free online mini-course on how this process works.
Why 1-2-1 Support Changes Everything
Naltrexone is highly effective—but it works best when paired with personalised coaching. Behavioural change, emotional support, and strategic goal-setting all contribute to long-term success.
Here’s what 1-2-1 coaching provides:
Tailored strategies to help you understand your drinking triggers.
Accountability with regular check-ins and progress reviews.
Mindset shifts that help reframe your relationship with alcohol.
Ongoing motivation and encouragement during tough patches.
Many people using TSM find that with professional support, the process feels less overwhelming and more empowering. If you're unsure where to start, why not book a free screening call with our team?
The Sinclair Method: A Smarter Way to Change
The Sinclair Method works by using Naltrexone in a very specific way—only before drinking. This blocks the reinforcement loop that causes alcohol dependence.
Key principles include:
Take Naltrexone one hour before drinking—never skip it.
Track your consumption and feelings to monitor change.
Allow your brain to unlearn the alcohol-reward association.
Stay consistent—this method works over weeks and months, not overnight.
If you’re curious about whether this method is right for you, our FAQ page provides further information to help you make an informed decision.
How Rethink Drink Supports Your Journey
At Rethink Drink, we specialise in supporting individuals who are ready to reduce or change their alcohol use using evidence-based methods like The Sinclair Method. We provide:
Access to experienced private doctors for safe Naltrexone prescriptions.
1-2-1 coaching programmes designed to support your unique journey.
Free educational tools, including our mini-course.
No-pressure conversations, like our free screening call, to help you explore your options.
Whether you're just starting to consider change or you're ready to take action, we're here to walk alongside you.
Let’s Rethink the Way We Recover
Making a change doesn’t have to mean giving everything up overnight. With Naltrexone, support from a private doctor, and dedicated 1-2-1 coaching, you can take a more sustainable and science-backed approach to recovery. At Rethink Drink, we’re committed to helping you find the path that works for you.