Addiction, also known as a substance use disorder, is a disease that does not discriminate. Recovery from addiction is possible for anyone, but it is sometimes harder when a person is using highly addictive drugs.
Which Drugs Are the Most Addictive?
Drugs that cause physical changes in the brain and the body tend to be the most physically addictive drugs. Some drugs like marijuana are primarily psychologically addictive, although people who are heavy users and suddenly quit still experience some withdrawal symptoms. Some of the most physically addictive drugs are below:
- Opioids and opiates are highly addictive. Opiates are derived from the opium poppy while opioids are synthetics with similar structures to opiates. Examples include Oxycontin, Vicoden, heroin, opium, and fentanyl.
- Cocaine and crack are widely abused. Cocaine is snorted while crack is typically smoked. Both have short but intense “highs” which makes the user go back for more.
- Meth is the subject of Breaking Bad, a show about a teacher who starts to manufacture the drug to make money. It is highly addictive and can devastate lives.
- Benzodiazepines. These are drugs meant to help people with anxiety or other disorders and are often abused. When a long-term user quits daily use suddenly, withdrawal can be dangerous. Examples of Benzos include Xanax, Valium, Ativan, and Klonopin. More recently, we’ve seen the proliferation of “street benzos”: flubromazolam and etizolam.
- Alcohol addiction is the most common addiction in the world, yet it’s still considered to be stigmatized. Many people drink “too much” and regularly, yet don’t realize they have the symptoms of alcoholism.
Understanding Addiction
People from all backgrounds of life, all over the world experience addiction in a similar way. First, they experience enjoyment at getting the “high” or relaxation they crave. They continue to use their drug of choice. Drugs change the users’ brain as the body adjusts to regular use of the drug. Drug use changes the way a person thinks and acts, leading to more impulsive and dangerous behavior.
A person with a substance use disorder develops a tolerance to the drug, requiring more of it to get the same effect they crave. This tolerance often means a person will experience physical withdrawal symptoms when they cease using. Withdrawal can be miserable, and sometimes dangerous, depending on the drug that is being used. Detox is a starting point to help people who are addicted to a drug get clean in a safe, comfortable environment.
Getting Help
Do you or a loved have a problem with substance use? We’ve helped many people start a new path in recovery in a safe, supportive and holistic environment. We’ve found that sometimes the hardest part of starting your journey is picking up the phone. Please do! We’re here to help and can answer any questions you have. Reach out at 1-800-970-8774.
