Increasing access to medication that helps people drink less or quit has been at the heart of Oar’s mission from day one. Since then, we’ve helped more than 30,000 people get access to safe, effective medication privately and conveniently. However, the last three months have been the most challenging time in our history to meet that simple goal. A market-wide shortage of naltrexone tablets developed in November and continues today, caused by a shortage of the medication’s active pharmaceutical ingredient. Oar has been able to maintain medication in hand for all of our members during the shortage by working closely with our partner pharmacy, pharmaceutical distributors and the manufacturers of generic naltrexone. We are proud that our track record as a large purchaser of naltrexone and industry relationships have allowed us to maintain medication in hand for members during times when patients have been unable to fill naltrexone prescriptions at prominent digital and retail pharmacies. We remain ready to accept new members at www.oarhealth.com.

However, the shortage has been difficult for Oar and our members. We have had to limit the number of new members that we accept, ship orders in 30 tablet quantities instead of the larger quantities that many members prefer, and change the manufacturer that we source from. While generic naltrexone from any FDA-approved manufacturer must have bioequivalence, the changes in tablet color and shape from manufacturer to manufacturer have been confusing and disruptive for some members.

We are doing everything possible to re-establish a reliable and sustainable supply of naltrexone that meets the current and projected needs of our members. Based on conversations with numerous industry participants, we are hopeful that supply increases substantially within the next few months.

But the naltrexone shortage is not an isolated issue. Generic drug shortages are at a 10 year high, extending beyond alcohol use disorder to other critical therapeutic areas such as chemotherapy, antibiotics, and ADHD medications. The generic drug supply chain is too brittle. Restoring its resiliency will likely require government action. If you are concerned about the supply of naltrexone and other critical generic medications, we encourage you to share your concerns with your representatives in Washington, D.C.

"For half my life, alcohol had been a constant companion in my life. It was there to celebrate the highs and to numb the lows. But as time went on, the line between casual drinking and dependency began to blur, and I found myself sinking deeper into the clutches of addiction.

One day, I decided it was time to break free from the chains that bound me to alcohol. I stumbled across Oar and its naltrexone treatment, which seemed like a ray of hope in my otherwise dark world. I mustered up the courage and reached out to the platform for help.

The process was surprisingly simple and discreet. I completed an online assessment, and soon after, I had a virtual consultation with a compassionate medical professional. They listened to my struggles without judgment, understanding the pain that alcohol had inflicted upon me and my loved ones.

Once prescribed naltrexone, I started taking the medication as part of my treatment plan. Initially, I was unsure of what to expect. However, as days turned into weeks, I began noticing subtle changes. The overpowering urge to drink diminished and I felt more in control of my choices. It was as if a weight had been lifted off my shoulders, and I could finally see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel.

The turning point came during a social gathering with friends. Normally, such events would trigger a torrent of cravings and temptations, but with naltrexone's support, I found myself able to resist the allure of alcohol. I could engage in conversations and enjoy the company of others without relying on a drink in my hand to feel comfortable.

As time passed, my relationship with alcohol underwent a profound transformation. It was no longer my crutch or confidant; it became just another beverage, stripped of its former power over me. Naltrexone had gifted me the freedom to choose a life without the shackles of addiction. But the journey wasn't without its challenges.

There were moments when the old cravings resurfaced, trying to reclaim their hold over me. Yet, with the support of Oar and fellow members of the recovery community, I learned coping mechanisms that empowered me to stay steadfast on my path to sobriety.  

As I reflect on my journey with naltrexone and Oar, I can't help but marvel at the person I have become. The transformation is awe-inspiring, and I owe it all to the courage it took to seek help and embrace this life-changing treatment.

Today, I am free from the chains of alcohol addiction, and I have newfound hope and optimism for the future. With Oar’s unwavering support and naltrexone as my ally, I continue to take steps forward on this path of recovery, knowing that I am not alone in my struggle.

If there's one lesson I've learned from this experience, it's that it's never too late to rewrite the story of your life. With the right support and treatment, there is always a chance for redemption, growth, and a future filled with joy and clarity."

‍— K, Oar Member

Our friend Derek Brown recently launched a podcast that can serve as your guide to mindful drinking.

Derek is a NASM Certified Wellness Coach, non-alcoholic cocktail expert, and award-winning bartender. In this podcast, he empowers listeners with strategies to make choices and changes related to their alcohol consumption, drawing on his eclectic expertise and decades of personal experience with alcohol. You can read more about Derek’s journey to mindful drinking here.
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We think The Mindful Drinking Podcast is a great companion to Oar. You can listen and subscribe here.

10 tips to cut back your alcohol use [The Washington Post]
‍“Most people do not need inpatient care, and for them, a variety of outpatient options exist. Underutilized medications such as naltrexone, disulfiram and acamprosate can be of great help, either by themselves or in combination with psychotherapy and counseling.”

‍For those with an alcohol problem, are non-alcoholic beverages a wise choice? [Stanford Medicine]
‍“On one hand, non-alcoholic beverages might be appealing for people who don't want to give up the taste of alcohol or who want to fit in around others who are drinking. But on the other, the beverages come with a lot of alcohol cues.”

‍How does alcohol affect the gut microbiome? [The New York Times]
‍“It’s clear that happy microbes are essential for proper digestion, immune function and intestinal health. And as scientists begin to explore how drinking may influence your gut, they’re learning that overdoing it could have some unhappy consequences.”

‍Understanding Binge Drinking [Verywell Health]
‍“Binge drinking is not the same thing as alcohol use disorder. Most people who binge drink are not addicted to or dependent on alcohol. However, binge drinking can increase your risk of developing alcohol use disorder.”