The Sinclair Method is a targeted approach to taking naltrexone to reduce or quit drinking. Following TSM means taking naltrexone at least one hour before your first drink every time that you drink (and not taking the medication on days that you do not drink).

While not as extensively studied as daily naltrexone use, this method has been used by many people to moderate or even stop drinking. A 2023 study also supported targeted naltrexone use’s efficacy.

At times, the debate over daily use vs. targeted has been so contentious that it has distracted from the bigger problem — not enough people getting access to naltrexone to begin with. (Only ~2% of people with alcohol use disorder are prescribed any medication to help them drink less or quit.)

At Oar Health, we want everyone using naltrexone to find the approach that works best for them — whether daily use, targeted use, or a hybrid of the two. We consider all of the above to be reasonable approaches. 

The best approach for any individual will depend on many factors, may require some trial and error, and is best evaluated in consultation with a healthcare professional.

One of TSM’s strengths is that there is a broad and passionate community of fellow patients ready and able to support others in practicing TSM. Scroll down to learn more about TSMMeetups — a peer-based mutual self-help group that’s free to join.

"I follow TSM with Oar Health. The golden rule is to ALWAYS take naltrexone and wait at least an hour before you drink.
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Making that a non-negotiable has made it so much easier for me to stick with the plan. I’ve never gotten caught off guard with an offer for a drink. If I don’t have naltrexone in me, or it hasn’t been an hour since I’ve taken it, I don’t drink.

Since Day One I have stuck to that rule. I think it made all the difference in the world for my success!”
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‍‍— JD, Oar Health Member

TSM Meetups is a peer-based, mutual self-help group grounded in science and aimed at education and support of people with AUD and those they touch.
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TSM Meetups offers 14 online Zoom meetups each week and operates 24/7 chat rooms.

The main focus is on The Sinclair Method (TSM), a targeted approach to taking naltrexone to create a change in one’s reward systems for alcohol by removing compulsion and cravings while creating a feeling of indifference and disinterest in alcohol.

While TSM Meetups’ historical focus has been on TSM, they recognize and support other very effective ways to use naltrexone and even other medications together and psychosocial therapies to address AUD.

The TSM Meetups team does not offer medical advice, but rather tools and education.

To join, attend an online meetup, or participate in the 24/7 Discord chat visit https://www.tsmmeetups.com/

Makes one serving
8 oz. Mug

1 oz. Non-Alcoholic Distilled Agave Spirit
2 oz. Spiced Cacao* (make recipe below or use high-grade spiced cacao like Ora)
4 oz. Oat Milk
1/4 oz. Agave Syrup (optional)
Pinch of Cayenne

Combine spiced cacao and other ingredients in medium sauce pan and heat for 5 minutes. Use a hand blender or blender to combine and foam.

‍*Spiced Cacao
‍4 tsp. Unsweetened Cacao
.5 tsp. Whole Cloves
.5 tsp. Ground Cardamom
.5 tsp. Orange Peel
2 Cinnamon Sticks
2 cups Water

Combine ingredients in a medium sauce pan and bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes. Strain liquid through colander lined with cheesecloth into a heatproof container. Can be cooled and stored for up to 48 hours.

Exploring Your Relationship With Alcohol | Kaiser Permanente
“If you’re rethinking your habits, here are some questions to keep in mind.”

What, Exactly, Is ‘Moderate Drinking’? | New York Times
‍“That depends on whom you ask, and what country you live in. Here’s what the research suggests and how to think about it.”

Why Naltrexone Is Considered The ‘Ozempic for Alcohol’ | Use Disorder | healthline
‍“'Of the medications that are available [to treat alcohol use disorder], naltrexone is the one with the most clinical research and evidence to support its safety and effectiveness,' said Keith Heinzerling, MD, addiction medicine specialist.”

Why There Have Been Shortages Of Naltrexone, A Key Medication For Alcohol Use Disorder | Recursive Adaptation
‍“Last November, Jonathan Hunt-Glassman noticed something unusual. The founder of Oar Health, a company that helps people with alcohol use disorder get and fill naltrexone prescriptions, started hearing that there was a shortage of the 40-year old FDA-approved medicine.”

The Surprising Way Ozempic Can Get People To Stop Drinking, Using Drugs | New York Post
‍“Researchers from Loyola University Chicago are adding to the growing evidence suggesting that medications like Ozempic can treat substance abuse.”