The initial decision to use drugs is voluntary for most people, but repeated drug use can lead to brain changes. Are all drugs addictive?
What is drug addiction?
Addiction is a chronic disease characterized by the search and use of drugs that is compulsive or difficult to control, despite the harmful consequences. Repeated drug use can lead to changes in the brain that challenge the addict’s self-control and disrupt his ability to resist intense drug cravings. These brain changes can be permanent, which is why drug addiction is considered a ‘recurrent’ disease – people who are cured of drug-related disorders are at greater risk of returning to drug use, even after years of not taking it.
Understanding dependence and addiction
Addiction does not always lead to addiction, but it can be difficult to distinguish both conditions from each other, and some addiction specialists use these terms interchangeably. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tolerance symptoms, withdrawal symptoms and compulsive drug search can characterize both conditions.
It is good to use these two terms separately when dealing with addictive painkillers or other addictive substances used for medical purposes. Although many people who regularly take opioid painkillers can become tolerant or addicted, do not necessarily show compulsive, addictive behavior. when it comes to taking or using the medicine.
Why are people addicted?
Disease theory explains why some people get addicted while others don’t. Both theories of why people get addicted agree. Factors that seem to occur in all addicts are:
- Biological – includes risk factors assigned to genes, sex, ethnicity, as well as all types of mental disorders.
- Environment – People, places and things have a huge impact on people who choose drugs or alcohol. Prevalence of poverty, abuse, exposure and peer pressure can play an important role in developing addiction.
- Neurological – the effect of drugs on brain neurotransmitters is probably one of the biggest causes of addiction.
Are all drugs addictive?
All drugs affect the brain’s reward center, causing dopamine to flood the body’s system. Yes, all drugs are addictive in this way because they all affect the brain in the same way.
When someone uses drugs to reach the same level they felt the first time, the brain responds by adjusting to excess dopamine. This produces less natural dopamine, which in turn reduces its receptors.
This process causes addiction, over time a person will have to use drugs with higher doses. This is the only way for dopamine receptors to work as they once did, and thus creates a relationship
