One of the most common questions about the Sinclair Method is: Will I still get drunk if I take naltrexone before drinking?
The short answer is: Yes, but it feels different—and that’s the point.
What Naltrexone Does to the Drinking Experience
Naltrexone works by blocking the brain’s opioid receptors, which means it reduces the release of endorphins—the brain chemicals responsible for the pleasurable “reward” you get from drinking alcohol.
Because of this, alcohol doesn’t produce the same strong feelings of euphoria or “buzz” that you might be used to.
How Drinking Feels on Naltrexone
When you drink while on naltrexone, you may notice:
- Less of a rush or “high.” The initial pleasure and excitement from alcohol are muted.
- Reduced cravings for more. Since the reward is weaker, your brain stops pushing you to drink more.
- More control over how much you drink. Without the strong reinforcement, it’s easier to stop or slow down.
That said, you may still feel the physical effects of alcohol—like relaxation, warmth, or impaired coordination—but the addictive pleasure is dialed down.
Why You Might Still Feel “Drunk”
It’s important to remember that naltrexone doesn’t block alcohol’s effects entirely—it targets the brain’s reward system, not alcohol’s impact on your body.
So, you may still get physically intoxicated, especially if you drink a lot. But since the pleasurable “reward” is lessened, you’re less likely to want to keep drinking beyond a comfortable point.
Adjusting to the New Experience
At first, this change can feel strange or even frustrating. You might miss the buzz or find drinking less enjoyable.
But over time, many people find this new experience helps them break free from compulsive drinking. Drinking becomes less about chasing a high and more about socializing or relaxing.
Takeaway
Yes, you can still get drunk on naltrexone—but the way drinking feels changes. The pleasure is reduced, making it easier to cut back or stop without the usual cravings and loss of control.
This shift is the core of how the Sinclair Method helps people regain control over their drinking, one drink at a time.