Is the Sinclair Method Right for Me?

This page is not a substitute for medical evaluation. Only a qualified, licensed clinician can determine whether naltrexone and the Sinclair Method are appropriate for you. This page is intended to help you understand the general considerations so you can have a more informed conversation with a clinician.

Who May Be a Good Candidate

• Adults who drink regularly and want to reduce or stop drinking
• People who experience strong alcohol cravings
• People who have tried to cut back and found it difficult
• Gray-area drinkers, binge drinkers, and high-functioning drinkers
• People who want a medication-assisted approach
• People who do not want to commit to immediate lifelong abstinence
• People who have not responded well to other approaches

Who Should Be Cautious or May Not Be Candidates

• People currently using opioids — naltrexone will precipitate withdrawal in people who are opioid-dependent
• People with significant liver disease — naltrexone is metabolized by the liver; liver function should be evaluated
• People who are pregnant or breastfeeding — discuss with a clinician
• People with acute hepatitis
• People who need opioid pain medication — naltrexone blocks opioid effects
• People with severe alcohol withdrawal risk — medical supervision is essential

Questions to Ask a Clinician

• Am I a candidate for naltrexone given my medical history?
• Do I need a liver function test before starting?
• Are there any medications I take that interact with naltrexone?
• What dose would you recommend?
• How will we monitor my progress?
• What should I do if I experience side effects?