Over time, the brain adjusts to the extra dopamine, which lessens the high that the person feels relative to the high they felt when initially taking the drug—an process known as tolerance. They could take more of the medicine, hoping to obtain the same dopamine high.
Many people aren't sure why some people become dependent on drugs. People might believe that drug users don't have morals or willpower, and they can't quit using drugs if they want to. Addiction to drugs can be a complex disease. Breaking the habit requires more than strong willpower and positive thoughts. People who are trying to quit using drugs can find it difficult to stop because of the many ways that drug use affects the brain. Researchers have discovered more about the brain effects of drugs than ever before. They also have treatments that can help those who are addicted get well and live productive lives.
Treatment for drug addiction is possible.
Heroin, cocaine and other illegal substances aren't all that can lead to drug dependence. An addiction to legal pharmaceuticals can be caused by nicotine, alcohol and sleep- and anxiety medications.
A dependency on opioids and other prescription-only narcotic pain relievers may also occur. This problem is now epidemic in the United States. Two-thirds, or more, of all drug-overdose deaths occurred in 2018, due to opioids.
Keep in mind that people can develop a tolerance to pain medication. This means that they may need to increase the dosage of the medication to get the same level of relief. This is normal and does not indicate an addiction problem. You might have to take more if you have an addiction. However, this does not mean you are suffering from pain. If this side effect is severe, consult your doctor.
Don't Wait; Get Help Now. If you feel that your drug use is excessive or causing you problems, talk to your doctor. Sometimes it may take time to overcome an addiction to drugs. Although there is no cure for addiction, therapy can help you stop using drugs and stay clean over the long-term. Talking to a therapist or taking medication can be part of your therapy. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best treatment option for you.
Many people are unsure of the reasons or how someone can become dependent on drugs. Some people mistakenly believe that drug addicts lack willpower or morality and can't quit using drugs if they simply make the decision. Drug addiction is a complicated disease. Kicking the habit requires more than just a strong will and optimistic ideas. The brain changes that drug use can cause can make it difficult for even those who want to quit. Today's researchers have a greater understanding of the brain and have created therapies to help people get clean and live fulfilling lives.
Who is most susceptible to developing an addictive behavior? Individuals have their own brains and bodies. Different people react to medicines in their own ways. Some people are able to fall in love with the feeling, and they want more. Some people hate it so they won't try it again.
The reward system in your brain is the target of the medications that may cause addiction. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter, is sent into your brain in large quantities. This elicits a sensation that can only be described as pure bliss. You continue to use the medication in an attempt to recreate that high.
Your brain will eventually adjust to the increased levels of dopamine. Therefore, you might need to take a greater quantity of the medicine in order to have the same desirable effect. And other things that brought you pleasure, like food and spending time with family, might not bring you as much of it now.
To avoid addiction to pain medicine, it is important that you follow all instructions given by your physician when using any medication. Talk to your doctor about any history of drug abuse and addiction. They can then prescribe medication that is most effective for you.