The Sea Change

The podcast explores the use of Naltrexone, particularly through the Sinclair Method, as an alternative approach to treating alcohol use disorder. Katie, a reporter and self-experimenter, shares her personal journey of overcoming alcoholism using this method, which involves taking Naltrexone before drinking to reduce cravings. The discussion highlights how Naltrexone blocks the pleasurable effects of alcohol, gradually diminishing the desire to drink. Despite studies showing its effectiveness, the treatment faces resistance due to the dominance of the abstinence-only model promoted by Alcoholics Anonymous and a cultural preference for redemption narratives. Journalist Gabrielle Glaser and addiction psychiatrist Dr. Mark Willenbring provide expert perspectives on the challenges of integrating medication-assisted treatments into mainstream addiction care.