




Facts
Research suggests that cocaine (like amphetamine) is a powerful activator of the brain’s central REINFORCEMENT system. Activation of the DOPAMINE system is the primary pharmacological effect. Moreover, release of dopamine in the NUCLEUS ACCUMBENS appears to be directly linked to the rewarding properties of these drugs. Animals that have undergone lesions of the dopamine projection to the nucleus accumbens are not interested in self-administering cocaine or amphetamine. In view of the hypothesis that the nucleus accumbens may be a critical neural substrate for ‘natural’ rewards (food, sex, and so on), the notion that cocaine amplifies pleasure may actually have a neurochemical basis. Anyone wishing to quit an ecstasy habit should consult a doctor or psychiatrist. The emotional and mental problems brought on by ecstasy may be eased by prescription medication. Users are advised to talk about the reasons why they began using illegal drugs—and stay away from situations where such drugs might be available. Cannabis is also famous for stimulating the appetite (especially, it would seem, for Wheat Crunchies and chocolate flavored milk). These short bursts of extreme hunger are known universally as the 'munchies'. Like the other hallucinogens, the exact mechanisms of action of MDMA are not known. MDMA, like the indole-and phenethylamine-type hallucinogens, binds to receptors for the neurotransmitter serotonin. Thus, many effects might be due to interactions with brain serotonergic systems. MDMA, however, also causes the release of both dopamine and serotonin, so some effects may be related to their stimulant properties. |
Residential Treatment
Residential treatment offers intensive drug addiction help over a period of weeks or months. This form of treatment has some advantages over out-patient treatment, although it may not be suitable for everyone. For example, those who are responsible for caring for young children may be better suited to attendance at an out patient treatment program. Residential treatment offers a safe, drug and alcohol-free environment where individuals can confront their own drug addiction and associated issues, with the help of qualified staff. Therapy usually consists of a mixture of group counseling, individual counseling and an introduction to the principles of a drug recovery program.
Detox
Detox is necessary when an individual through their chronic use of drugs or alcohol has developed an addiction. The objective of detox is to help the individual achieve a drug and alcohol free state. Detox is intended to relieve the physical symptoms of withdrawal and helps prepare the individual for entry into drug rehabilitation. Therefore, the ultimate goal of detox is preparation for long term recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.
Therapeutic Community
An effective therapeutic community attends to the many needs of the individual, not just his or her drug use. Care given at a therapeutic community addresses the individual's drug use and associated medical, psychological, social, vocational, and legal problems. Also, a therapeutic community will continue to be flexible and provide ongoing assessments of the individual's needs, which may change during the course of care.
Remaining in care at a therapeutic community for an adequate period of time is critical for treatment effectiveness. The time depends on an individual's needs. For most people, the significant improvement is reached at about 3 months in treatment.
Drug Addiction
Drug addiction is a pattern of repeated drug taking that usually results in tolerance (the need for greater amounts of the drug to achieve the same effect), withdrawal (physical and cognitive effects when drug use declines or stops), and compulsive drug taking behavior (drug taking that persists despite efforts to reduce intake and despite problems with family, friends, and work). Drug addiction encompasses a diverse range of drugs (such as alcohol, cannabis, amphetamines, and cocaine) and is caused by many different factors.
Addiction
Addiction is one of the many consequences of so-called 'casual' drug and alcohol abuse. A loss of control over drugs and alcohol can be driven by physical or psychological factors, or sometimes both. Physical addiction takes place when the body comes to need a drug to function normally. If it is not taken, unpleasant withdrawal symptoms occur. The only way to avoid this is to take more of the drug. Psychological addiction takes place when an individual comes to rely on a drug to supply good feelings, such as relaxation, self-confidence, self esteem, and freedom from anxiety. This is not just a casual desire, it's a powerful compulsion.
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