Sunnyside Blog Category- Page 5 of 8 - The Mindful Drinking Blog by Sunnyside

💡 This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment plan, including the use of naltrexone. Individual needs and responses to treatment can vary. Is Naltrexone a daily pill that can help you drink less alcohol? Nearly every person who drinks has at one time or another tried to cut back, take time off, or simply become more mindful of their drinking habits. Often, this journey to build healthier drinking habits involves an app or program (like Sunnyside, the alcohol moderation app we designed), which can be incredibly successful as they offer education, coaching, tracking, and community tools to help you drink less. However, for many who need more help changing their habits around alcohol, or want to make a more dramatic change, seeking out additional support is helpful. For example, including therapy in your health journey can help uncover deeper motivations and triggers, which can be transformational. Similarly, Naltrexone is another tool that can be used to make deeper change. Simply put, Naltrexone works by taking the edge off the intense pull to drink. Naltrexone can open a new path to both moderation and quitting. No matter how much you drink, the research shows promising results, especially when combined with other forms of support or therapy. It’s time to let go of the all-or-nothing approach when it comes to drinking. The world is opening up to changing what’s going on in our brains when we drink, rather than putting all the emphasis on willpower. Whether you’re looking to moderate or quit, this guide will help you understand how exactly naltrexone works, what happens when you stop, and how to make your journey to healthier habits long-lasting and effective. What is Naltrexone? Naltrexone is a prescription medication popular for people looking to manage their alcohol cravings. In a nutshell, it works to reduce the rewarding effects of alcohol, leading to fewer cravings. While it’s not a magic pill, it is a tool that works with your brain chemistry to make alcohol seem less appealing. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that works by blocking opioid receptors, which in turn diminishes the pleasurable sensations associated with alcohol consumption. When on naltrexone, you might feel like you finally have the space to think more clearly about grabbing a drink, versus an uncontrollable urge or compulsion you can’t ignore. It takes away the heavy pull and allows you to feel more comfortable saying, “Not tonight”. We’ll get into much more detail in this guide. A quick note on Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Naltrexone isn’t just for treating Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), but also for people looking to help manage their cravings and moderate on their terms. If you’re interested in Naltrexone, you do NOT need to get caught up on the word AUD. All you have to know is that you want help drinking less. AUD is a technical term that can’t be avoided when writing about naltrexone. So, what is alcohol use disorder (AUD)? AUD is a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control drinking despite negative social, occupational, or health consequences. It’s a brain disorder, not a moral failing or lack of willpower, and it exists on a spectrum from mild to severe. AUD can look different for everyone: some may drink heavily daily, others may binge occasionally but still struggle with control. The great news? Effective treatments exist, and change is possible, which is exactly where Naltrexone comes in! Stay positive, and try not to get caught up on the words we’re using here. The History of Naltrexone Naltrexone became famous for treating alcohol use in the '90s when researchers noticed that it helped reduce alcohol’s rewarding effects. They saw that people who felt out of control with their drinking habits could have fewer drinks without needing more. By 1994, it was approved by the FDA for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), offering a new tool to people feeling lost in their habits. Its popularity grew even more in the 2000s as people spoke more openly about mental health and alcohol. We began to understand that reducing alcohol was not about willpower, but managing a chemical dependence. Science had created a medication that could impact brain chemistry, making alcohol feel less rewarding and reducing cravings on its own. The science behind it actually goes back to the 1960s. Originally, it was created to help manage the opioid epidemic. Scientists were looking for ways to block opioid receptors in the brain so that the drug didn’t have such an intense impact. Once they realized it also worked on alcohol, the narrative from Alcohol Use Disorder as a “personal failure” to a chemical issue could start to shift. Naltrexone became a bridge for people who felt powerless against their cravings, and even those who just wanted to reshape their relationship with alcohol and cut back. Overall, naltrexone didn’t just grow in popularity because it worked; it grew because it met people where they were, offering them something tangible to break the cycle with self-compassion instead of self-criticism and shame. Why Naltrexone is Gaining Attention If you’ve noticed more people talking about naltrexone, you’re not imagining it. Over the past few decades, research has been steadily growing on its positive impact on managing both drinking and cravings. Thanks to these promising results, Medication-assisted Treatment (MAT) is becoming more popular. It’s not just for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), but also for people looking to help manage their cravings and moderate on their terms. For example, Google Trends is showing a spike in searches for naltrexone, showing that the world is opening up to pharmacotherapies. Naltrexone sheds light on the biochemical process that happens when we drink and how incredibly addictive it can become. This mindset can finally help people feel more compassionate with themselves, reducing intense self-criticism that only makes things worse. It’s also helping people move away from an unhelpful all-or-nothing attitude. Traditionally, anyone who struggled with alcohol felt they had few options, many of which didn’t apply or feel right to them. Namely, either abstinence on your own or abstinence at an expensive in-person treatment center. Needless to say, those options aren’t appealing to everyone, leaving people without a practical option to change their habits on their terms. Like Sunnyside, naltrexone offers a middle ground by allowing people to drink while taking it, reducing the pressure to quit suddenly. We’re all about meeting people where they are and working on moderating or eliminating alcohol in a sustainable, judgment-free way. How Does Naltrexone Work? Naltrexone works to block the “reward” you feel from alcohol, like the buzz that starts after your first drink or two. Normally, alcohol releases a host of “feel-good” chemicals. Specifically, your opioid receptors get activated, triggering the release of these chemicals. That includes serotonin, GABA, endorphins, and dopamine. Dopamine plays a big role in your reward system. The release of this chemical makes you feel satisfied, and importantly, motivated to repeat whatever you did to get that hit of dopamine in the first place. So the more your brain associates alcohol with a reward, the more likely you are to want to drink more. When naltrexone is in your system, though, those feel-good chemicals are dramatically reduced. That’s because it binds to your opioid receptors, stopping them from activating and releasing the chemicals. That means naltrexone dampens the feel-good effects of alcohol, so you start craving alcohol less. Your reward system starts to learn that alcohol doesn’t actually offer any benefits, and instead, you may notice its negative effects. It’s important to note that naltrexone’s effectiveness varies from person to person depending on genetics, brain chemistry, and even how consistently it’s taken. This means some people may experience a ‘total block’ of the feel-good effects of alcohol, but most will experience a dampening. Also, it’s incredibly important that Naltrexone doesn’t block alcohol’s other effects, like sedation, motor impairment, and nausea. Also, naltrexone doesn’t prevent you from getting drunk, it just makes it less rewarding. Naltrexone is a Tool, Not a Cure While naltrexone can help retrain your brain to stop associating alcohol as something rewarding, it’s not the be-all-end-all solution to challenges with drinking. Studies on naltrexone suggest it as complementary to talk therapies and lifestyle changes. People who do both show the largest improvements, especially long-term. Even talk therapy on its own is associated with long-term behavioral change when it comes to drinking. Naltrexone, on the other hand, works while it’s in your system and doesn’t address underlying issues. So while naltrexone can be helpful in reducing or quitting alcohol, it takes time and an overall holistic approach. Your lifestyle, coping tools, and other issues that contribute to unhealthy behaviors still need to be worked on for long-term success. Some people can feel their cravings reduce in the very first week of taking Naltrexone, while others need months. Many factors are at play, including how much you’re currently drinking. If you know what your end goal is and are prepared to do the work and tackle other areas like stress management, naltrexone might be a helpful option for added support. Sunnyside, the mindful drinking platform we make, might just be the perfect companion to Naltrexone, as it helps you develop a deeper understanding of your relationship to alcohol and put a long-term system of habit change in place, with the support of a community and coaching. It’s a perfect place to start making changes to your drinking habits. Get a free 15-day trial here. Oral Naltrexone vs. Injectable Naltrexone: Which is Best? Taking naltrexone orally is the most common method because it’s simple and effective. You take one pill a day, at the same time, and that’s it. It works well for most people who are trying to make a dent in their drinking habits. It’s also a good choice for people looking to moderate. Since there’s still the possibility to drink, you can find your own balance over time, without the pressure of total abstinence. Injectable naltrexone is more common for people with more severe AUD or those who struggle to stick with taking the pill daily. The injectable is given once a month by a healthcare professional, which means a doctor’s appointment is necessary. Simply put, oral naltrexone is more common (and much easier to acquire), especially for people who want a gradual, self-managed path to moderation or eventual abstinence. Is Naltrexone Safe? Naltrexone is considered safe for most people when used as described. However, there are still side effects to be aware of. There are also certain groups of people who should avoid it, such as: People with liver issues People with opioid use disorder Pregnant or breastfeeding people Naltrexone Side Effects Like all medications, naltrexone can come with side effects — though many people tolerate it well, especially after the first few days. Most side effects tend to be mild and go away on their own. Some of the most common side effects include: Nausea – Especially common in the first few days of treatment as your body adjusts. Headaches – Often mild and temporary, but can be persistent in some users. Dizziness – You may feel lightheaded or off-balance, particularly when standing up quickly. Fatigue – A general sense of tiredness or low energy. Other possible side effects may include: Trouble sleeping or vivid dreams Anxiety or restlessness Loss of appetite or stomach discomfort Muscle or joint aches Increased thirst Irritability or mood changes Rare but more serious side effects can include: Liver issues – High doses of naltrexone may impact liver function. Your doctor may recommend regular liver enzyme tests, especially if you have a history of liver problems. Allergic reactions – Though rare, symptoms can include rash, itching, swelling, or trouble breathing. Seek medical help immediately if this occurs. Depression or suicidal thoughts – Mood changes should be monitored, especially if you have a history of mental health concerns. Let your doctor know about any emotional changes while on the medication. Note: Side effects are usually most noticeable at the beginning and may fade over time. If any side effects feel intense or don’t go away, talk to your healthcare provider—they may adjust your dose or help you manage symptoms. Starting Naltrexone: What to Expect As with this full guide, the following is not medical advice, but rather guidance from our research and experience. Getting started with Naltrexone is surprisingly easy these days, but it can help to be prepared and know what to ask. Get a check-up / Go Online: Schedule an appointment, inquire about naltrexone with your doctor, and see if it’s right for you. This is a time to be honest with your doctor about your alcohol consumption so they can confidently prescribe naltrexone. Alternatively, there are online sites where you can get naltrexone without ever going through your doctor, and without going through your insurance. Alcohol-free period: Your doctor will likely recommend that you go 3-7 days without alcohol before starting naltrexone. Otherwise, you may get withdrawal symptoms and other side effects or complications. There’s also evidence to suggest that the amount of naltrexone in your blood affects your response. In a nutshell, if the levels are too low and you start drinking, you may not notice much of an effect. Opioid-free period: If you use opioids, be sure to tell your doctor. You will need to be opioid-free for at least 7-10 days before starting naltrexone to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Follow instructions: If taking the pill, follow the recommended dosage and take it at the same time daily. It’s okay to take it late when you remember, but if you miss a day, don’t take two the next day (avoid two within a few hours of each other).Oftentimes, we’ve observed that doctors will recommend taking a half dose for the first few days in order to limit side effects. While this isn’t necessary, it can make the experience more pleasant when starting naltrexone. Follow-up: Watch how your body reacts and set a follow-up appointment with your doctor to monitor your progress. Reach out for support: Studies show that naltrexone works best when combined with talk therapy like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and support. Consider free support groups if that works best, and join a community that lifts you up. The Sunnyside community is full of people going through the same thing, ready to offer a listening ear to the hard times and validation when you need it. What the Research Says: Is Naltrexone It Worth It? Overall, reviews and meta-analyses suggest that naltrexone is an effective pharmacotherapy treatment for AUD. For example, a recent review and analysis from 2023 checked 118 clinical trials and almost 21,000 participants taking 50 mg/day of oral naltrexone. Oral naltrexone reduced the rates of returning to heavy drinking. Along with psychosocial interventions (like CBT and support groups), the paper concluded that oral naltrexone could be considered a first-line pharmacotherapy for AUD. An earlier 2016 meta-analysis also supported naltrexone as a pharmacotherapy treatment for AUD. When combined with talk therapy, daily naltrexone reduced the number of drinking days, amount of alcohol consumed, and heavy drinking relapses compared to placebos. Earlier reviews also suggested that even short-term treatment (12 weeks or less) was linked with fewer drinking days, drinks per day, abstinent days, total consumption reduced, and improved relapses. A 28-day study on cravings on residents at an AUD treatment center who drank heavily also showed improvements. Cravings seemed to decrease more quickly, even compared to other residents receiving the same level of care (talk therapy, support groups, etc.). Another 2017 review showed that naltrexone reduced the amount of alcohol consumed and the intensity of cravings compared to placebo. They also pointed out that cravings reduced for people regardless of the severity of AUD, and may also be helpful for people with AUD. In the end, research suggests that when combined with psychosocial therapy, naltrexone is effective. Is Naltrexone Effective for Light Drinkers? While much of the research covers AUD, there are reviews comparing light drinkers. They show that naltrexone still works to dampen alcohol’s “reward” and reduce cravings. For those at risk of progressing to heavier drinking, naltrexone might even work preventively. By reducing alcohol’s “benefits”, the urge to drink can be reduced, reducing the risk of developing unhealthy habits. It’s important to keep in mind that naltrexone’s effects are usually more intense in heavier drinkers. However, that’s likely because light drinkers have a lower baseline of cravings and the “reward” it produces. Beyond Alcohol: How Naltrexone Might Help Binge Eating and Chronic Pain Since naltrexone works on the reward system, it might also benefit other types of mental and physical issues. It’s our reward system that reinforces behavior, motivating us to repeat what pleases us. When the normal balance of rewards shifts, because of chronic stress or stimuli like food or alcohol, we can get heightened sensitivity (whether to pain or pleasure) or diminished rewards, making it harder to get satisfaction from normal activities. Naltrexone works to rebalance the reward system by blocking the reward, reducing the pleasure from substances and cravings, as well as sensitivity to pain. Here’s what the most recent science says about its efficacy in binge eating and chronic pain: Binge Eating Disorder Binge-eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder worldwide, and it comes with an uncontrollable compulsion to eat. The ability to regulate food feels impossible, stemming from over-restriction and dieting, along with perfectionistic traits. Research on naltrexone for BED is showing promising results. It’s often combined with another medication; bupropion (also known as the brands Wellbutrin or Aplenzin), which is used to treat depression, smoking cessation, and sometimes ADHD or weight loss. A recent 2024 meta-analysis showed that a combination of naltrexone-bupropion (NB) helped improve both the weight and psychological symptoms of BED. As with alcohol, it’s best used in combination with talk therapy. For example, a 16-week trial on 136 people with BED showed that behavioral treatment with naltrexone-buproprian offered the most significant improvements to symptoms when compared to the medication alone, placebo alone, or behavioral therapy and placebo. Chronic Pain Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) is also commonly prescribed for chronic pain management. Specifically, it’s shown to help reduce symptom severity in conditions like fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, or diabetic neuropathy. A 2023 meta-analysis reviewed 13 randomized controlled trials dating back to 1990. It found that LDN groups experienced a significant pain reduction compared to placebo groups. It’s also important to note that talk therapies alone, like CBT and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), are also effective methods for managing chronic pain. What Happens When You Stop Taking Naltrexone for AUD? While naltrexone helps manage AUD, there may be a risk of falling back to old habits once you stop. The risk grows even more when you don’t combine the medication with talk therapy and lifestyle changes. One study showed that people who took naltrexone for 12 weeks were less likely to drink heavily for a month after stopping — but these effects didn’t last. Naltrexone’s effects tapered off with time. However, among the placebo group, coping skills and therapy reduced drinking levels and lasted through into the follow-up period, which was six months later. The government’s Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reviewed many studies and found that overall, benefits of naltrexone eventually fade after discontinuing use. Essentially, the evidence suggests that for some, Naltrexone isn’t a silver-bullet, but when combined with other forms of self-care, such as therapy, meditation, journaling, etc., it can have long-lasting benefits on alcohol intake. This is likely due to new coping skills that can be applied long-term. Is Naltrexone Right for You? Deciding whether to try naltrexone is a personal decision — one that depends on your goals, habits, lifestyle, and the kind of support that works best for you. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and that’s okay. The key is to reflect on where you are right now and what kind of help will actually move you forward. Here’s what to consider: 1. Start with Your Doctor Before anything else, talk to a medical provider. They’ll help determine whether you’re a good candidate for naltrexone based on your health history, any medications you’re taking, and your current relationship with alcohol. It’s important to be open about your goals — whether you’re aiming to cut back, take breaks, or stop drinking altogether — so they can recommend a plan that’s aligned with what matters most to you. 2. Reflect on Your Goals Ask yourself: Where am I right now with drinking? Where would I like to be in 30 days? 6 months? A year? Am I looking for a quick reset, or longer-term change? Naltrexone can be a helpful tool, especially if you experience strong cravings or tend to drink more than you intend. But it’s most effective when used alongside behavioral support like coaching or therapy, and it’s not meant to be taken forever. Consider whether you’re open to adding structured support now or later. 3. Understand Your Patterns and Traits Some people are more prone to impulsive decisions, binge episodes, or difficulty stopping once they start drinking. If this sounds familiar, naltrexone might help by dampening the brain’s reward response to alcohol, making it easier to hit pause. But it’s not just about biology — your emotional patterns, stress levels, and habits all play a role. So think about how you typically respond to urges and whether you feel like you need extra help interrupting that cycle. How to Make Naltrexone More Effective: 5 Tips for Success Research shows over and over again that naltrexone works best with supportive strategies. Here’s how to maximize its benefits: Build A Support Network Creating a strong network of support groups from different sources can be life-changing. Think about friends, family, free support groups, or even professionals who could help you during this time. Research shows that social support is key to improving mental health. Joining a community online to feel supported by others going through the exact same thing helps. That’s why Sunnyside has an open group, resources, and personalized coaching for accountability and encouragement through your journey. Track and Journal Monitoring your behavior makes you more likely to achieve your goals. Sunnyside uses the latest science-backed strategies to help you track your drinks and stay motivated. Seeing everything in black and white (and emojis) helps you adjust your goals and strategies as needed — while the support reminds you it’s about progress, not perfection. Work on Lifestyle Changes We’re not designed to change our habits overnight, but research shows that focusing on small, tiny, manageable changes can lead to big changes. Combining something like 10 minutes of movement every day, or adding a serving of veggies to every dinner, can become a part of an overall healthier lifestyle. It might sound small, but that’s your best bet for long-term results. The easier the health habit is, the more likely you are to stick with it. Include Talk Therapy There’s no denying the evidence that talk therapy supports behavior change long-term. Whether or not you choose to take naltrexone, experimenting with different types of social and behavioral support is key. That could mean free support groups or private therapy. As long as you give different options a try, since the most important factor is finding a therapist or group you connect with and feel supported by. Stay Consistent Part of what makes naltrexone effective is how consistently you take it. Follow your medication schedule, and remember not to take two doses together if you miss a day. You can create personalized reminders with Sunnyside to make sure you stay motivated and on track throughout the process. What is The Sinclair Method? The Sinclair Method (TSM) is a different kind of approach to treating AUD with naltrexone. It takes a more targeted approach to reducing cravings, and the long-term goal is generally to quit drinking entirely. Since naltrexone reduces the rewarding effects of alcohol, TSM recommends taking it one hour before your first drink, and only on days that you drink. The thinking is that by activating naltrexone’s effects only when drinking, it will have a more succinct and profound effect, and also limit unwanted effects that can occur when taking daily. This method was developed by neuroscientist Dr. David Sinclair back in the 1990s. He was researching how to stop certain behavioral patterns and realized that drinking while on naltrexone could break the brain’s learned association — namely, that alcohol equals pleasure. This can retrain the brain's reward system naturally, leading to long-term behavioral change. What The Data Shows There is potential evidence to support the idea of The Sinclair Method (TSM) for certain people. However, much more research is needed. Studies on naltrexone focus on overall effectiveness more than targeted use, as in TSM. A 2001 study by Dr. Sinclair also highlighted that naltrexone was effective in reducing cravings, and that it’s more effective when combined with behavioral therapies. It focused on the idea of retraining the brain’s relationship with alcohol while gradually reducing dependence without forcing abstinence. However, there wasn’t specific data as to targeted use without abstinence compared to abstinence. The paper also suggested that targeted use isn’t for everyone and that longer-term studies were needed. The major point of its effectiveness was how closely participants followed the medication protocol. Those who forgot to take naltrexone beforehand or didn’t have enough time didn’t benefit as much. A 2010 study specifically on non-abstainers showed promising results. A total of 952 alcohol-dependent men and women participated in a 16-week trial. People who drank more regularly seemed to benefit most from naltrexone, supporting The Sinclair Method theory. However, this may mostly apply to a small subgroup of very regular drinkers to reduce heavy drinking days. Later studies shed a bit more light on how The Sinclair Method might apply. For example, a 2016 meta-analysis showed naltrexone as an effective medication in targeted use without abstinence, like in TSM. Another meta-analysis showed that naltrexone worked well to reduce heavy drinking and cravings, rather than abstinence. Is The Sinclair Method (TSM) or Daily Right for Me? Most doctors will likely recommend the traditional method of naltrexone; daily oral tablets. The majority of research focuses on its effectiveness as a daily medication. The Sinclair Method, on the other hand, only requires taking the medication at least 1-2 hours before drinking. However, if you’re an impulsive drinker, surrounded by tempting and unexpected social drinking, or get cravings at unexpected times, The Sinclair Method might not work. One of the key factors of The Sinclair Method is consistently complying with taking the medication before drinking. To retrain your brain that there is no reward with alcohol, your brain needs to learn that every time you drink, there is no reward. If sometimes there is a reward, the method simply won’t work as well (and potentially, not at all). Overall, we need more research on TSM to find out how it works long-term, how easy compliance is, and who it might be best for. However, it really depends on each person. For example, taking naltrexone daily may increase your adherence because it’s easier to remember and covers you even when you end up drinking unexpectedly, increasing its chances of success. In the end, it’s best to speak with your doctor about it. Your unique needs and long-term goals will play a role in which method works best for you. You can also check in with people who’ve given it a try — keeping in mind that results are different for everyone. Naltrexone Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Can I drink while taking Naltrexone? It’s safe to drink while taking naltrexone, however, practitioners don’t typically recommend it. It’s also important to have 3-7 alcohol-free days before starting, otherwise, the medication can’t work as well. In general, if abstinence isn’t going to work for you and you want to reduce, taking naltrexone can still be helpful (but starting it while alcohol-free for a few days is key).Be aware that there may be some side effects, like nausea or stomach discomfort. Also, alcohol in high amounts while taking naltrexone can risk the liver as well. How long does naltrexone take to work? It depends on the person, but the effects of naltrexone might start working within a matter of hours to a few days. However, it can take a few weeks of consistent use to get its full benefits, like fewer cravings and better control. In addition, most practitioners (and anecdotes) support the idea that naltrexone should be taken for at least 6-12 months to truly see the biggest benefits. Given its high degree of safety, generally few side-effects, and easy daily compliance, this is fairly easy to achieve. What happens if I miss a dose of naltrexone? If you miss a dose of naltrexone, take it as soon as you remember — unless it’s already time for your next dose. Don’t take two doses at once to make up for a missed day. Missing a dose here and there shouldn’t have a huge effect, but consistency increases its effectiveness. Is naltrexone effective for everyone? Naltrexone is effective for many, but it not necessarily for everyone. It depends on how light or heavy your drinking is, and your unique brain chemistry. Some people might not respond or notice a difference. Plus, some groups of people shouldn’t take it, like those with liver issues, current opioid use, or certain health conditions — talk to your doctor to find out if it’s safe for you. Will I still feel buzzed if I drink while taking natlrexone? This can be different for everyone. Generally speaking, Naltrexone reduces (but usually doesn’t completely stop) the euphoric effects of alcohol, so drinking simply won’t feel as rewarding. In online discussions, you can often find people reporting that when on Naltrexone, they have one drink socially, then have no desire to have any more. There may be a small buzz, but that pull to have more and more might be gone, thus giving the person more control over their decisions and behaviors. In other conversations, we’ve read that it’s “possible” to drink past Naltrexone’s effects to some degree. For example, if you choose to binge drink on Naltrexone (not recommended), you may be able to feel some degree of Euphoria, but it may be uncomfortable or unenjoyable. It’s important to understand that alcohol is a depressant, so it can still affect your body by impairing your judgment, coordination, and other functions. For example, you might still slur, stumble, and react slowly. Naltrexone might reduce your desire for alcohol, but it doesn’t stop its physical effects — which is why driving while drinking is still completely prohibited. Is it safe to take naltrexone long-term? Yes. Naltrexone is considered safe for long-term use. In fact, many studies show the best results when it’s taken consistently for 6–12 months or longer. Some people stay on it for years, while others taper off once they’ve made meaningful changes in their habits. It’s best to review this plan with your provider. Do I need to detox before starting naltrexone? You do not need to go through full detox to start naltrexone — unlike medications like acamprosate or disulfiram, which often follow abstinence. However, most providers recommend at least 3-7 days alcohol-free before beginning, to avoid side effects and give the medication the best chance to work. In addition, because Naltrexone is an opioid blocker, you may have to detox from opioids prior to starting naltrexone. Can I take naltrexone only on the days I drink? Yes, this is called targeted or as-needed dosing, and it’s the foundation of the Sinclair Method. The idea is to take naltrexone 1–2 hours before drinking to reduce alcohol’s reward, gradually retraining the brain. This can work well for some people, especially those who don’t drink every day. However, daily dosing is still the most widely studied and often preferred for people with more regular drinking patterns or impulsivity. How does naltrexone compare to other medications for alcohol use? Naltrexone is one of several FDA-approved medications for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). It’s generally best for people who want to cut back or quit gradually. In comparison: Acamprosate helps maintain abstinence, especially after detox Disulfiram (Antabuse) causes unpleasant effects if alcohol is consumed, acting as a deterrent Topiramate (off-label) can reduce cravings but may have more side effects Naltrexone is often considered a first-line option because of its safety, flexibility, and tolerability for people who still want to drink occasionally. Sunnyside is the Perfect Companion for Your Naltrexone Journey Sunnyside is the #1 mindful drinking app. Since 2020, we’ve been honing our harm-reduction approach, and have helped over 400,000 people cut out 22 million drinks from their baseline habits. 96.7% of our members report success drinking less, and in a third-party study, our approach was demonstrated to reduce weekly drinking by 33% after 12 weeks. Think of Sunnyside as the front-door for anyone who wants to change their relationship with alcohol. If you want to drink less, we can help you get there. If you want to eventually quit, but want to take a gradual approach, we can make that happen. When you sign up for Sunnyside, you’ll take a quick 3-minute personalization quiz, then hop into the app. It’s as simple and quick as that. We’ll give you weekly plans to gradually reach your drinking goals, and we’ll provide nudges, coaching, exercises, and advice to help you get there. We have daily tracking and journaling tools, including the option to chat with a real human coach at any time. And of course we have great analytics so you can track your progress over time. Sunnyside is a full-featured mindful drinking app, and thus the perfect companion for your Naltrexone journey. Naltrexone will actively help you reduce cravings around alcohol, and Sunnyside will help you understand your triggers and patterns, giving you a healthy system for habit change. If and when you see success drinking less, and you choose to stop taking Naltrexone, Sunnyside is a tool you can keep using to maintain your healthy habits. Everyone who signs up for Sunnyside gets a free 15-day trial, then the subscription is $8.25/month, less than the cost of a fancy drink. And the best part is our members save an average of $50 per month, easily paying for the cost of the subscription. Whether you’re currently taking naltrexone, or just doing some research on alcohol moderation, we’d love to have you sign up for our 15-day free trial today.