Sinclair Method Studies
This article examines the scientific foundation behind TSM, drawing on nearly three decades of peer‑reviewed trials, neuroimaging research, and systematic reviews.
A science-based approach called The Sinclair Method (TSM) is gaining visibility in the UK and Ireland. At its core is Naltrexone, a medication that rewires the brain’s response to alcohol.
When we think of recovery from alcohol dependency, the image that often springs to mind is a circle of people saying, “Hi, I’m John, and I’m an alcoholic.” This familiar ritual of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) has been a cornerstone of addiction recovery since the 1930s. But as society changes, and science advances, many are asking: is AA becoming outdated?
Many of us assume that stopping drinking is simply about self-control. But if you've ever tried to cut down—or stop entirely—you'll know it's not that simple. It often feels like you're fighting your own brain. And in many ways, that’s exactly what’s happening.
The Sinclair Method (TSM) is a medically supervised treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) that utilises the opioid-blocking medication naltrexone. This treatment works by weakening the association between alcohol and the brain’s reward system. Naltrexone is taken one hour before drinking, blocking endorphins that would normally reinforce the behaviour.