Can you retrain your brain to stop excessive drinking?

The Sinclair Method uses medication to reduce harmful alcohol overuse without requiring complete abstinence.

February 3, 2026

By Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter

Reviewed by John F. Kelly, PhD, Contributor

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A woman's hand holding out a glass of whiskey to a man who is holding up his hand in a gesture of refusal; the man himself is out of focus.

Are you concerned that you’re drinking too much but reluctant to give up alcohol entirely? A little-known strategy called the Sinclair Method may be worth trying. It relies on naltrexone, a drug that dampens alcohol’s euphoric effects. Over time, this practice gradually dials down the powerful cravings some people experience that compel them to drink excessively.

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About the Author

Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter

Julie Corliss has been the executive editor of the Harvard Heart Letter since 2013. She also writes for the Harvard Health Letter, Harvard Women’s Health Watch, and Harvard Men’s Health Watch, as well as for Harvard … See Full Bio

View all posts by Julie Corliss

About the Reviewer

John F. Kelly, PhD, Contributor

Dr. John F. Kelly is the Elizabeth R. Spallin Professor of Psychiatry in Addiction Medicine at Harvard Medical School — the first endowed professor in addiction medicine at Harvard. He is also the founder and director … See Full Bio

View all posts by John F. Kelly, PhD

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