Addictive

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

  1. Addictive Substances

Addictive substances are chemical compounds that can lead to addiction, a chronic disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain. Addiction is a complex condition, a brain disorder that is manifested by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences.

Types of Addictive Substances[edit | edit source]

Addictive substances can be broadly categorized into several groups:

1. Alcohol[edit | edit source]

Alcohol is a legal depressant that is widely consumed around the world. It can lead to addiction, known as alcoholism, which is characterized by an inability to control drinking due to both a physical and emotional dependence on alcohol.

2. Nicotine[edit | edit source]

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance found in tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, and e-cigarettes. It is one of the leading causes of preventable death worldwide.

3. Opioids[edit | edit source]

Opioids are a class of drugs that include both illegal drugs like heroin and legal prescription pain relievers such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine. Opioid addiction is a serious global health crisis.

4. Stimulants[edit | edit source]

Stimulants include drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and prescription medications like Adderall and Ritalin. These substances increase alertness, attention, and energy, but can also lead to addiction.

5. Cannabis[edit | edit source]

Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is a psychoactive drug that can lead to addiction in some users. It is the most commonly used illicit drug in the world.

6. Hallucinogens[edit | edit source]

Hallucinogens, such as LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, and MDMA, can alter perception and mood. While not all hallucinogens are considered addictive, some can lead to psychological dependence.

Mechanism of Addiction[edit | edit source]

Addiction involves changes in the brain's reward system. When a person uses an addictive substance, it can cause a surge in levels of dopamine, a brain chemical involved in movement, emotion, cognition, motivation, and feelings of pleasure. This overstimulation of the reward system can lead to the euphoric effects sought by people who use drugs and teaches them to repeat the behavior.

Over time, the brain adjusts to the excess dopamine by producing less of it or reducing the number of receptors that can receive signals. This reduces the high that the person feels compared to the high they felt when first taking the drug—an effect known as tolerance. They might take more of the drug to try and achieve the same dopamine high.

Treatment of Addiction[edit | edit source]

Treatment for addiction is often a long-term process and can involve a combination of medication, therapy, and support groups. Medications can be used to manage withdrawal symptoms, prevent relapse, and treat co-occurring conditions. Behavioral therapies help patients modify their attitudes and behaviors related to drug use and increase healthy life skills.

Also see[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD