Does TSM Work? Reviews & Science of Naltrexone for Alcoholism

Our program offers private, online alcohol care that’s accessible from anywhere—whether through our app or your computer. 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). Freedom from alcohol in 90 days​ with clinical, community, and coexisting issue support. Get therapy and medical care—just $25 with insurance, no hidden fees— for alcohol recovery, depression, everyday illnesses, and more. 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. TSM works for both daily and occasional drinkers—as long as naltrexone is taken before drinking.

Side Effects of Naltrexone

• If someone is still suffering emotionally, he or she is more likely to stop taking naltrexone and revert to drinking to cope with emotional problems, mental health disorders, and life’s challenges.
• Studies have shown that over 75% of participants using TSM successfully reduce alcohol consumption, and many eventually eliminate alcohol addiction.
• For more detailed information about The Sinclair Method and how it can benefit you, visit our FAQ page.
• With that in mind, everyone is different, and everyone deserves a method that’s tailored to their needs and preferences.

Symptoms include unusual bleeding or bruising, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, and pain in the upper right part of the abdomen. If you experience such symptoms after taking naltrexone, you should contact your doctor immediately. It needs to be used correctly and consistently in order for it to be effective. He termed this phenomenon the alcohol deprivation effect, likening it to the increased alcohol cravings that make it hard for people with AUD to stay abstinent and avoid a binge. However, the Sinclair Method is not the only medication-based approach to alcohol recovery.

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Before you alcoholism symptoms can fully understand the benefits and drawbacks of The Sinclair Method for alcoholism, it’s essential that you also understand how alcoholism works. Naltrexone should not be used by persons with acute hepatitis or liver failure, or those with recent opioid use (typically 7–10 days). At Rethink Drink, we’re committed to providing the guidance and resources you need to transform your relationship with alcohol and achieve lasting recovery. For more detailed information about The Sinclair Method and how it can benefit you, visit our FAQ page.

• Detox and inpatient therapy could be tailored, then a one-size-fits-all approach with emphasis on the Twelve Steps.
• In rare cases, liver function may be affected, which is why routine monitoring with a healthcare professional is recommended.
• The word opioid (and opiates) comes from the word opium which comes from opium poppies that grow in Asia.
• Some argue that the method’s reliance on medication as a treatment mechanism may not address the underlying psychological and emotional factors contributing to AUD.
• If you’re struggling with addiction yourself or know someone who’s in need of support, know that help is available at The Edge Treatment Center.

Critical addiction studies

Symptoms of opiate withdrawal such as nausea, vomiting, bone and joint pain, chills, fever, etc will be similar but more severe than normally experienced in withdrawal without naltrexone. Finally, the Sinclair Method is a valid approach that could be used to help people overcome AUD. However, since this is a MAT, professional prescription and monitoring are mandatory to get this treatment.

How Naltrexone Works

• While naltrexone reduces cravings, your actions are key to creating lasting change.
• Regardless of whether you’re using the Sinclair Method or daily naltrexone dosing, it’s important to check in with a physician to discuss your progress and ensure your safety.
• According to a survey from the C Three Foundation, more than half of the survey participants reduced their drinking by 70% in 6-12 months.
• This pleasure-reward feedback loop can encourage repeated alcohol use, ultimately leading to misuse or dependence.
• It acts as an “opioid antagonist” — a substance that obstructs the opioid receptors in the brain, essentially blocking the euphoric effects and feelings of intoxication.

In one study, treatment with Vivitrol resulted in 25% greater reduction of heavy drinking days than https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/what-is-the-sinclair-method-for-alcohol-addiction-recovery/ counseling alone. In another study, Vivitrol showed greater success with those who were totally abstinent from drinking for a week ahead of receiving the shot. A core area of contention stems from TSM’s departure from the traditional abstinence-only model.