When you drink alcohol, your brain releases endorphins that activate opioid receptors. This then creates a rewarding effect, which over time conditions the brain to associate alcohol with pleasure.The more this reward pathway is reinforced through drinking, the stronger the cravings become and the harder it is to quit or cut back.
When you take naltrexone before drinking, it blocks the endorphin reward.Because the brain no longer receives the same reinforcement, the learned behaviour gradually weakens.
This follows the same learning principle shown in Pavlov’s experiments: when a cue stops producing a reward, the conditioned response fades.
On The Sinclair Method:
Over time, this process is called pharmacological extinction — the brain “unlearns” the addictive pathway.
If you take a break from alcohol and your cravings get stronger, you are not weak. Your brain is doing something common. It has a name. The Alcohol Deprivation Effect.
What you might notice:
When you drink often, your brain learns: alcohol = reward. When you stop suddenly, your brain feels deprived of a reward it still expects. And the longer you go without alcohol, your brain may still be wired the old way, so it keeps sending strong “wanting” signals.
To change that wiring, the brain has to learn a new lesson: alcohol does not deliver the same reward anymore. That unlearning is called extinction. Pharmacological extinction is when the reward is blocked during drinking sessions, so over time the brain can weaken the link between alcohol and craving.
Taking alcohol away can make the brain want it more for a while. The brain needs time and the right method to re-learn
A plan that:
Our 12-week guided programme gives you a simple roadmap and expert support, so you know what to do next and you are not guessing.
Start Your Journey
You learn the routine: take naltrexone before drinking, track units, notice first shifts in reward after drinks.
Cravings begin to reduce. Many report fewer units, more control and less urge to continue once they start.
Reinforcement weakened, drinking declines further, some choose abstinence, many maintain moderation.
In Pavlov’s experiments, when the bell no longer predicted food, the dogs stopped salivating. On TSM, when alcohol no longer delivers its endorphin reward, the brain’s conditioned response — craving — fades in the same way.
The Sinclair Method (TSM) uses a prescribed dose of
naltrexone taken about an hour before you drink. Naltrexone
temporarily blocks the brain’s opioid receptors, so alcohol
produces little to no endorphin “reward.” Without that chemical reward, the
brain starts to unlearn the link between alcohol and
pleasure. This learning process is called pharmacological
extinction.
Evidence‑based alcohol reduction. No forced abstinence. Blocks reward, so cravings reduce and control returns.
Stop immediately. Higher relapse risk for many. Progress depends on willpower without medical blocking.
No medical support. Often leads to cycles of restriction, lapse, guilt, repeat.
Information on this page is educational and not a substitute for medical advice. Always follow your clinician’s guidance.
Learn how medically proven support and structured coaching help you reduce alcohol
consumption
safely and effectively. This short video explains the process and what to
expect.
Watch how it works
Expert Clinicians Supporting Your Journey
Begin by booking a confidential consultation with our specialist TSM clinicians. We’ll assess your needs and provide clear medical guidance, ensuring the Sinclair Method is right for you.
You’ll receive a prescription for an approved opioid blocker (like naltrexone). Take one tablet at least an hour before drinking. This blocks the alcohol “reward” in your brain and begins the extinction process.
Continue to drink in normal circumstances, but only ever with the medication. Over time, your cravings and compulsion to drink will decrease as your brain “unlearns” the addiction, making it easier to control your intake.
As the extinction process progresses, you’ll find freedom from cravings and regain control over your drinking. Our team is here to support you throughout, helping you achieve a healthier, more balanced relationship with alcohol.
Sinclair Method UK is led by a trusted team of doctors, addiction specialists and caring clinicians, each with deep expertise in alcohol use disorder and the science of recovery. Our mission is to offer personalised, evidence-based care to help you achieve lasting control and freedom.
MEDICALLY
PROVEN RESULTS
EVIDENCE-BASED RECOVERY NO FORCED
ABSTINENCE
PERSONALISED TREATMENT PLANS TRUSTED
CLINICAL EXPERTS SUPPORT
EVERY STEP
This has really helped get my drinking under control. I have reduced my drinking by at least a third a week. No more blackouts. I know if I drink socially I limit my drinking easily. Cravings have gone, however habit is still there, which takes effort which TSM are there to help you. There is an amazing Facebook support group as well.
GB
I want to shout about the Sinclair Method from the rooftops. Absolutely amazing treatment, helps to be motivated but the tablets and advice do the heavy lifting. Over 3 months since I had a drink. Thank you all for your help.
GB
Great experience, very quick responses to my questions, very empathetic staff who understand it is a huge thing to admit you need help. Would fully recommend the Sinclair Method.
GB
I have been following the Sinclair Method for five months. My drinking was a problem and now it isn't. The pills clearly work, but the support and encouragement from Joanna has been invaluable. It has changed my life. If your drinking is out of control, just do this, it works.
GB
Whilst not an alcoholic (no problem with dry months) I had a faulty off switch when drinking. This tablet has completely sorted that for me. I can now enjoy a couple of drinks and stop and often choose not to drink. TSM and Adrian have been great, couldn't recommend more highly!
GB
The Cure For
Alcoholism