PLAN FOR HEALTH
Addiction and Your Health
November 2023
HOW DO DRUGS WORK IN YOUR BRAIN?
Drugs interfere with the way neurons send, receive, and process signals via neurotransmitters. Some
drugs, such as marijuana and heroin, can activate neurons because their chemical structure mimics
that of a natural neurotransmitter in the body. This allows the drugs to attach onto and activate
the neurons. Other drugs, such as amphetamine or cocaine, can cause the neurons to release
abnormally large amounts of natural neurotransmitters or prevent the normal recycling of these
brain chemicals by interfering with transporters. Although these drugs mimic the brain’s own
chemicals, they don’t activate neurons in the same way as a natural neurotransmitter, and they lead
to abnormal messages being sent through the network.
HEALTH CONSEQUENCES OF DRUG ADDICTION
People with addiction often have one or more associated health issues, which could include lung or
heart disease, stroke, cancer, or mental health conditions. Imaging scans, chest X-rays, and blood tests can show the damaging effects of
long- term drug use throughout the body.
For example, it is well-known that tobacco smoke can cause many cancers, methamphetamine can cause
severe dental problems, known as meth mouth, and opioids can lead to overdose and death. In
addition, some drugs, such as inhalants, may damage or destroy nerve cells, either in the brain or
the peripheral nervous system (the nervous system outside the brain and spinal cord). Drug use can
also increase the risk of contracting infections. HIV and hepatitis C (a serious liver disease) can
occur from sharing injection equipment or from unsafe practices. Infection of the heart and its
valves (endocarditis) and skin infection (cellulitis) can occur after exposure to bacteria by
injection drug use.
CAN ADDICTION BE TREATED SUCCESSFULLY?
Yes, addiction is a treatable disorder. Research on the science of addiction and the treatment of
substance use disorders has led to the development of research-based methods that help people to
stop using drugs and resume productive lives, also known as being in recovery.
PLAN FOR HEALTH NOVEMBER 2023
CAN ADDICTION BE CURED? Additionally, medications are used to help people
detoxify from drugs, although detoxification is like other chronic diseases such as heart disease or asthma, treatment for drug addiction usually
isn't a cure. But addiction can be managed successfully. Treatment enables people to counteract
addiction's disruptive effects on their brain and behavior and regain control of their lives.
DOES RELAPSE TO DRUG USE MEAN TREATMENT HAS FAILED?
No. The chronic nature of addiction means that for some people, relapse, or a return to drug use
after an attempt to stop, can be part of the process, but newer treatments are designed to help
with relapse prevention. While relapse is a normal part of recovery, for some drugs, it can be very
dangerous—even deadly.
WHAT ARE THE PRINCIPLES OF EFFECTIVE TREATMENT?
Research shows that when treating addictions to opioids, medication should be the first line of
treatment, usually combined with some form of behavioral therapy or counseling.
Medications are also available to help treat addiction to alcohol and nicotine but are not the same as treatment and is not sufficient to help a person recover.
HOW DO BEHAVIORAL THERAPIES TREAT DRUG ADDICTION?
Behavioral therapies help people in drug addiction treatment modify their attitudes and behaviors
related to drug use. As a result, patients are able to handle stressful situations and various
triggers that might cause another relapse. Behavioral therapies can also enhance the effectiveness
of medications and help people remain in treatment longer.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy seeks to help patients recognize, avoid, and cope with the situations
in which they're most likely to use drugs. Common forms of behavior therapy for addiction include:
Contingency Management Motivational Enhancement Therapy Family Therapy
Twelve-Step Facilitation
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction or behavioral health treatment, call the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or contact your
health plan provider.
Sharecare Featured Challenge:
A daily gratitude practice can help you become a happier, healthier person! Join the November
Gratitude Challenge this November. Track for 21 days that you identified at least one thing that
you are grateful for! Join the challenge by clicking Achieve → Challenges → November Gratitude
Challenge beginning on 10/25.
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Self Care, It’s Time to Take Care of You
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