The Most Addictive Drugs
What is an addiction to drugs? A concise answer is that it is a compulsive physical or psychological need to obtain more of a substance, even though you understand the harmful effects associated with its use. Depending on the drug or drugs of choice, it may take a while to reach the point of not being able to quit, or quitting for a short time and then relapsing. There are prescription and non-prescription drugs that are potentially addictive.
Popular Addictive Drugs
Nicotine: The potential for addiction to nicotine is on the same level as cocaine, alcohol and morphine, according to MedlinePlus. Withdrawal symptoms of nicotine use begin rather quickly after the last use – usually within two to three hours. Common symptoms include irritability, anxiety, headaches, sleeping difficulties, restlessness and difficulty concentrating.
OxyContin: OxyContin, a medication in the same class as morphine and codeine, has a single ingredient – oxycodone – prescribed for moderate to severe pain. This prescription drug is generally safe when used in the short term and as directed by your doctor. Other uses, such as crushing the pill and snorting the powder, are extremely dangerous. Withdrawal symptoms for suddenly stopping OxyContin may be severe and include heart palpitations, joint pain, cold sweats and depression.
Crack Cocaine: Crack cocaine is made from powdered cocaine and is almost always smoked. Large quantities of cocaine enter the body. According to the National Drug Intelligence Center (NDIC), cocaine is highly addictive, and smoking cocaine is more rapid to develop into addiction than snorted cocaine.
Heroin: Heroin can be injected, smoked or snorted, with injection the method of choice for most users. Intravenous injection is the quickest way to euphoria. Although it takes longer for other methods to take effect, all methods of use are highly addictive.
Methamphetamine: Methamphetamine is a highly addictive psychostimulant that is sold as crystal meth for injection and “ice” or “glass” for smoking. Long-term meth abuse can lead to psychotic episodes, violent behavior, memory loss, mood swings and heartbeat irregularities.
Diazepam: Diazepam, also known by the brand name Valium, is a prescription medication for treating anxiety, seizures and muscle spasms. The first dose can trigger an addiction or dependence. Diazepam stays in the system for several hours, which increases the potential for easy addiction.
Other Drugs
Schedule I and II drugs are considered to have a high potential for abuse. This includes hallucinogens, such as LSD, Mescaline and Psilocybin; dissociative drugs, such as PCP; club drugs, such as MDMA (methylenedioxy-methamphetamine) and GHB; opioids, such as heroin and opium; and cannabinoids, such as hashish and marijuana.
Treatment for Addictive Drugs
Treatment options for highly addictive drugs include a supervised detox, along with a program that includes behavioral therapies and counseling. Call today and start on the road to recovery and a life of sobriety. We offer a wide range of services to give you the support and confidence to make the transition from a life controlled by drugs to a life of purpose. Our professional staff is fully qualified to see you through all the way from detox to living sober.