Drug addiction is a neuropsychological disorder characterized by persistent urges to engage in certain behaviors, resulting in adverse consequences. This disorder has negative effects on the individual, his family, and his community.

Physical changes to neuronal cells

Drug addiction is a condition that occurs when an individual's brain physically changes as a result of repeated exposure to a drug. The effects are often dramatic and may last for months or years.

These physical changes can occur at the population level, such as synapses, or at an individual level, such as at a neuron. Those with substance use disorders often experience intense cravings that lead to relapse. Some studies suggest that different drugs of abuse may have different effects.

Ethanol, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine are some of the drugs that alter basic cellular physiology. In addition, they change the synaptic physiology of the reward pathway.

Synaptic plasticity refers to the ability of a neuron to "fire off" a message. In order for this to occur, the receptors on the nerve cell must be functioning properly. During this process, enzymes act as inhibitors. Enzymes also limit how many neurotransmitters can reach the next cell.

Gene expression in the nucleus accumbens

The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is one of the key components of the mesolimbic dopamine system. It also plays a critical role in the addictive properties of drugs. Here, we investigate gene expression in the NAc and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) in mice with cocaine addiction. We hypothesize that the shared neuronal substrates needed to respond to natural rewards are needed for responding to drugs of abuse.

To test this hypothesis, we performed RNA-Seq on the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the nucleus accumbens. Using statistical algorithms, we found differentially expressed genes in each region. Several significant risk loci were identified, overlapping with cis-acting regulatory elements of gene expression. These risk loci were enriched for a subset of factors controlling proinflammatory cytokine production and extracellular matrix signaling.

We also identified a subset of genes that were induced by drugs of abuse. These genes were related to lipid catabolism, oxygen transport, and drug and proton transport. Specifically, we investigated the genes NPAS4 and HDAC5.

A reward pathway

A reward pathway for drug addiction has been proposed. The theory proposes that changes in the brain reward system are important factors in the development of an allostatic state of drug use. Several studies have indicated the importance of the basal forebrain in the positive reinforcement of drug use.

Animal models of reward have been used to study behavioral changes in response to various types of stimulants, including cocaine, nicotine and alcohol. Studies of this system have yielded insights into the building blocks of addiction.

The American Psychiatric Association defines impulseivity as experiencing a pleasurable or pleasurable-like feeling before committing an act. These feelings are a result of increased arousal and tension prior to a response to an environmental stimulus.

Activation of these stress systems can result in negative affective states and compulsive behavior. Drugs activate dopaminergic pathways within the brain's reward system. As a result, this pathway is involved in the development of both positive and negative reinforcement of drug use.

Signs of addiction

Drug addiction is a disease that is often difficult to recognize. It can have a huge impact on a person's life. There are both physical and psychological aspects to this condition.

Substance abuse can affect the mind, body, and even the family. This can cause extreme upset and can lead to serious illness.

In some cases, the substance will cause serious damage to the major organ systems. If left untreated, the symptoms can become worse.

Addiction can also change the way a person perceives the world. They might lose interest in activities that used to interest them. Also, they might become apathetic or critical of others.

Drug addiction can have a negative impact on relationships. When a loved one becomes an addict, they may lose their motivation to do their job, attend school, and spend time with their family.

Treatment

Drug addiction is a disease that affects both your brain and your behavior. This can lead to life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, but help is available. Treatment centers can help you overcome your addiction and return to a productive, healthy lifestyle.

The first stage of treatment is detoxification. Often, medications will be used in conjunction with behavioral therapy. These drugs can help you cope with withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and reestablish normal brain function.

Another important aspect of addiction treatment is social support. Positive, supportive social connections help you maintain focus after treatment. Family members can be recruited to help provide support, if necessary. Also, a 12-step program can be useful.

When choosing a drug addiction treatment center, look for one that offers a full continuum of care. Medical services, psychosocial therapies, and community-based recovery support systems are all common in these programs.