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Article by: Sharon Wong Shi May
Introduction
Recently, addiction has been classified as a brain disease. It is caused by the prolonged use of addictive drugs that alters the morphology, biochemistry, and function of neurons. Factors such as genetics, environment, and their interplay contribute to the development of addiction. To address this issue, we must understand both the impact of drugs on the brain and the underlying reasons for compulsive usage. If left untreated, drug-related violence may arise leading to fatalities and damage to societal structures (Jiang, 2024).
The euphoric sensation given off by drugs is the key factor in their continued use. They boost dopamine levels, bringing pleasure to the user. However, excessive use builds resistance to the drug. Additionally, many users continue the drug usage to avoid withdrawal symptoms. An interesting study has discovered that the intensity of addiction does not correlate with the intensity of the withdrawal symptoms. For example, cocaine is highly addictive but it only shows mild withdrawal symptoms (Jiang, 2024).
The reward circuit
The mesolimbic pathway is a significant reward circuit, consisting of dopaminergic neurons. Investigations using PET scans revealed elevated dopamine levels following exposure to addictive drugs. This produces a “feel-good” effect on the brain in the initial stages. Food, drinks, and sexual activity are examples of natural dopamine stimulators. However, chronic drug use alters both the structure and the function of the brain, leading to resistance or tolerance. In other words, the drug has to be taken in larger doses to achieve the same euphoric sensations as experienced previously. These changes in the brain can persist even after the individual has ceased the drug use.
Brain plasticity
Addiction is parallel to a learning process. During learning, the brain has the ability to change its structures and connections in response to new experiences (Jiang, 2024). This process is known as brain plasticity. Similarly, the brain adapts to the presence of drugs, altering its functional systems to accommodate their effects. This phenomenon becomes evident when an addict's typically low brain metabolism becomes hyperactive in areas involved in learning and emotion when exposed to drug-related stimuli. Essentially, the brain “learns” to associate the drugs with pleasure, making recovery challenging since the body has already adapted to their presence.
Conclusion
Prolonged use of addictive drugs can rewire the brain, changing and modifying its structure and function, to adapt to their euphoric effects. This complex brain disease requires comprehensive treatment to mitigate its impacts and address associated symptoms.
Citations:
Jiang, M. (2024). A General Overview on How Brain Mechanisms, Environmental Factors, and Personality Traits Affect the Development of Drug Addiction and Substance Abuse. SHS Web of Conferences, 193, p.03010. doi:https://doi.org/10.1051/shsconf/202419303010.
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