Narcotic Addiction

Addiction: How Narcotics Work

The biochemical effects of narcotic drugs are what make them addictive. Narcotics bind to painkilling sites throughout the brain, known as opioid-U receptors or the "reward pathway." This leads to slower uptake of neurotransmitters, like dopamine, between neurons. Immediate effects include cessation of pain, drowsiness, and a feeling of well-being associated with pain reduction. With chronic use, the brain may stop producing endorphins, natural painkilling chemicals, and the user develops tolerance. The user must replace the missing endorphins with narcotics in order to feel good and to avoid the painful effects of narcotic withdrawal. The user becomes dependent on increasing amounts of the drug to feel good. Abuse usually leads to dependence.

Addiction is a chronic illness of the brain. Although one initially chooses to use narcotics, addiction is more than a behavioral problem; it is physiological and psychological. Compulsive use and relapse after recovery are a few of the behavioral problems that result from dependence. Use and relapse may be enforced by environmental cues, like peer influence and specific cultural stimuli. Breaking the habit of drug addiction is difficult and requires detoxification, changes in lifestyle, and therapy.

Narcotic abuse is defined by impaired function and interference in the daily life of the user. Users often develop serious physical, social, and mental health problems that compromise well-being and affect family and friends