What Is The Sinclair Method? A Science-Backed Shift in Treating Alcohol Use Disorder
Key Takeaways
The Sinclair Method (TSM) combines the medication naltrexone with continued drinking to reduce alcohol dependence.
Developed by Dr John David Sinclair, TSM is backed by more than 35 years of scientific research.
Clinical trials show a 78% success rate — significantly higher than many abstinence-based approaches.
TSM uses a dual therapy model: targeted medication and one-to-one personalised support.
Programmes are tailored to meet different personal needs and drinking behaviours.
Understanding The Sinclair Method
When it comes to treating Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), many still believe that complete abstinence is the only path to recovery. But for thousands of people around the world, The Sinclair Method (TSM) offers a different way — one grounded in neuroscience, long-term results, and a powerful blend of medication and coaching.
Rather than demanding immediate sobriety, TSM helps people gradually regain control over their drinking. And it’s all done through a process called pharmacological extinction — a method backed by decades of clinical research.
A History Rooted in Science and Compassion
The Sinclair Method was developed by American neuroscientist Dr David Sinclair during his time researching alcohol dependency in Finland. He noticed that after a period of abstinence, people often relapsed harder — drinking more than before. This phenomenon, known as the Alcohol Deprivation Effect, helped shape his radical approach.
Dr Sinclair believed that alcohol dependence was largely learned behaviour, strengthened over time through reward and repetition. So instead of removing alcohol altogether, he explored how to rewire the brain’s response to it.
The result was TSM — a treatment that leverages opioid-blocking medication to weaken the brain’s connection between alcohol and pleasure.
How The Sinclair Method Works
At the heart of The Sinclair Method is naltrexone, a non-addictive medication that blocks the endorphin (opioid) receptors in the brain. When taken one hour before drinking, naltrexone reduces the pleasurable effects alcohol typically delivers.
Over time, this leads to pharmacological extinction — a process in which the brain unlearns its conditioned response to alcohol. This means fewer cravings, more control, and often, a natural reduction in drinking without white-knuckling or forced abstinence.
Here’s how TSM typically works:
You take naltrexone one hour before drinking alcohol.
You drink as usual — no sudden abstinence required.
Over weeks and months, the brain begins to disassociate alcohol with pleasure.
Cravings reduce naturally, and drinking levels often fall without effort.
With personalised coaching, people often rebuild healthy habits and long-term change.
Want to learn more about how this works in detail? Read our blog on naltrexone for alcohol cravings.
Proven Results Backed by Research
One of the most compelling aspects of TSM is its evidence base. Over 35 years of scientific studies support its effectiveness, with a clinically proven 78% success rate in reducing alcohol consumption and dependence.
This is particularly promising compared to many traditional programmes that focus solely on abstinence, which often face higher dropout and relapse rates.
Key research-backed benefits of TSM include:
A reduction in cravings and binge drinking episodes
Increased ability to moderate or stop drinking over time
Long-term adherence due to flexibility and realism
Better mental health outcomes and improved daily function
Dual Therapy for Lasting Change
TSM isn’t just about the pill — it’s also about people.
That’s why dual therapy is so important. Alongside the use of naltrexone, successful outcomes often involve tailored, one-to-one support from coaches who specialise in TSM.
This combination allows individuals to:
Set goals based on their own lifestyle and readiness
Navigate emotional or situational triggers with guidance
Build sustainable habits beyond drinking
Track progress and adjust the plan as needed
We offer multiple support options designed to fit different needs. Whether you're a daily drinker, a weekend binge drinker, or someone looking to reset your relationship with alcohol, there's a personalised programme to support your journey.
Programmes Built Around You
No two people drink the same way, and no two recovery journeys should look the same either.
At Rethink Drink, we understand that flexibility is key. That’s why our programmes are structured to suit your lifestyle, drinking patterns, and personal goals.
Whether you're looking for:
A self-paced route with light-touch support
Weekly coaching to build accountability
High-intensity support during difficult transitions
…we’re here to help you regain control on your terms.
Start by booking a free screening call to explore what programme fits you best.
Rethinking Recovery
The Sinclair Method isn’t just a new way to treat AUD — it’s a rethink of what recovery can mean. It embraces science, flexibility, and compassion, helping people make lasting change without shame or suffering.
If you're ready to explore a smarter, more empowering way to drink less — or not at all — TSM might be the approach that finally works for you.