My wife has been on NAL for a month and a half now. She is taking the medication on a regular basis as prescribed and it has basically been a miracle to our family. I no longer have to worry about her running off binge drinking or what not, or the constant lies, etc. You all know the drill. But now she seems quite a bit more disconnected - especially when it comes to sex. She no longer initiates and doesn't even seem to enjoy it. I've been reading up on the TSM and was wondering if:

1. Is this a side effect of taking NAL?
2. Would TSM address this?

From day one I've been trying to get her to read up on TSM but she keeps on saying that the doctor knows best (it's working so why change anything).

If I had to choose between a sober wife and one that wanted to jump my bones, I would choose sober (although she still does drink on NAL, but no more binges).

Please help!

Welcome, Texasflip! I've replied to your other post in Concerned Spouse, have a look and tell us what you think.

Thanks Joe!! Responding there too.

not an issue. Nal really doesn't seem to change a user's sex life....

In fact some studies in men have shown they have increased libido on Naltrexone.

There is of course underlying issues and if it's a problem for her, note: I said her... not you then she should seek counseling. Alcohol as we all know and for many of us who started drinking as teen agers is one of the drugs that reduces your inhibitions and turns you into a super star! Sometimes people use it to loosen up to be able to do things they might otherwise be inhibited or shy in doing. I know that was the case for me. If that is the case for her then it simply needs to be addressed.

The fact of the matter is this, alcoholism is a very selfish sickness and it is a personal journey. TSM is the reverse of that and is equally as selfish and personal. Right now your wife is doing what she needs to do for Number One, herself, and at all other cost she is saving her own life. Once that begins to take hold then you will really start seeing the benefits as it seems you already have.

I wish the best of luck to her.

Texasflip:

There is a lot of fear about loss of sex drive and some references in the literature about it, but from what I can tell at least anecdotally here on the forum it hasn't been a real issue for most of us. I tend to agree with Ocean, it is probably just a HUGE adjustment period for your wife. I would give her some time and just be really supportive. I know for myself personally that just adjusting to being sober most of the time was huge, and although positive, it is also different and you have to get to know who you are and what you are going to do with your new sober self.

I am so very happy for you and your family that the nal has worked for your wife.

xoxo Newlife