What Is a Physiological Drug Addiction?

Drug addiction not only affects the lives of the user, but also his family and friends as well. As drug use and drug of choice vary from individual to individual, so do their addiction potentials. As use becomes more and more frequent, so do the chances of addiction. Each drug possesses different addiction components, some psychological, some physical and some both. Although psychological addiction is extremely difficult to overcome, the physiological and combination of the two can be worse.

Definition

• Defining physiological drug addiction is difficult because there is no explanation that completely explains it. Encyclopedia Britannica describes it as "the period of time when an addict is abruptly deprived of a drug upon which the body has physical dependence, there will ensue a set of reactions, the intensity of which will depend on the amount and length of time that the drug has been used" (see Reference 1). Physiologically addictive drugs include but are not limited to heroin, opioids, some prescription medications and cigarettes.

Withdrawal

• As previously mentioned, the longer someone uses a psychologically addictive drug, the more her body becomes dependent on it. It is believed that the central nervous system is responsible for the discomfort created by the body's craving for the drug (see Reference 1). The onset of this period of time is correlated to the frequency of drug use. If the drug is not ingested within a certain amount of time, the user will soon begin experiencing physical discomfort.

Symptoms

• Helpguide.org says that these symptoms include but are not limited to shakes, chills, severe aches and pains, difficulty sleeping, agitation, depression and even hallucinations or psychosis (see Reference 2). For severe physical addiction, the need for medical attention is necessary. Because of the large amount of vomiting and cold sweats, the addict can become dehydrated quickly, not to mention that the pain he feels from the tremors and aches can become so severe it might leave him immobile.

In Combination with Psychological Addiction

• The withdrawal symptoms that physiological addiction creates reinforce the already present psychological component of addiction. Thus, the two work hand in hand, creating such an urge to continue using the drug that many addicts will take any means necessary to obtain it. Although psychological addiction is not life-threatening, it exacerbates the body's yearning for the drug and consequently can create serious medical issues that require medical attention.

Treatment

• Once withdrawal symptoms begin, they likely will increase in intensity and frequency. In extreme withdrawal, medication is usually required. Going to the emergency room is a necessity as doctors can administer other medications to counteract the effects the user is experiencing. The National Institute on Drug Abuse says that "the medicinal treatments used for physiological drug abuse are based on those used to treat heroin addiction." These include but are not limited to methadone, buprenorphine, an array of central nervous system depressants (to help alleviate cravings and shakes) and the newest drug, Suboxone (see Reference 3). Unfortunately, this is just the first step in discontinuing physiologically addictive drugs.

Conclusion

• Clearly, the best way to treat physiological dependence is not to use any drug that holds that potential. If someone is already addicted, it is imperative she seek medical attention immediately in an effort to stop. Medication to help withdrawal is only the beginning. Withdrawal symptoms can last for several days. There are free clinics that offer help to those who cannot afford the medications and counseling necessary to beat this addiction. Contacting your local public health clinic is an excellent way to find the nearest free addiction treatment centers.