What is drug addiction?
Drug addiction is a complex and misunderstood disease. It is characterized by craving and use that can persist despite the negative consequences. Drug-seeking may become compulsive sometimes as a result of the effects of prolonged use on brain functioning and, consequently, on behavior. For many people, relapses happen even after long periods of abstinence.

How quickly can I become addicted to a drug?
There is no easy answer to this question. It depends on many factors including the biology of your body. All drugs are potentially harmful and may have lonf lasconsequences associated with their abuse. There are also vast differences among individuals in sensitivity to various drugs. While one person may use a drug one or many times and suffer no ill effects, another person may be particularly vulnerable and overdose with first use. There is no way of knowing in advance how someone may react.

How do I know if someone is addicted to drugs?
If a person is compulsively seeking and using a drug despite negative consequences, such as loss of job, debt, physical problems brought on by drug abuse, or family problems, then he or she probably is addicted. Seek professional help to determine if this is the case and, if so, the appropriate treatment.

What are the physical signs of abuse or addiction?
The physical signs of abuse or addiction can vary depending on the person and the drug being abused. For example, someone who abuses marijuana may have a chronic cough or worsening of asthmatic symptoms. Each drug has short-term and long-term physical effects. Stimulants like cocaine increase heart rate and blood pressure, whereas opioids like heroin may slow the heart rate and reduce respiration.

Are there effective treatments for drug addiction?
Drug addiction can be effectively treated with behavioral-based therapies and, for addiction to some drugs such as heroin or nicotine, medications. Treatment will vary for each person depending on the substance being used, and additional courses of treatment may be needed to achieve success.

NIDA: National Institute on Drug Abuse