Neurostimulation and Drug Abuse

Abstract

Addiction to substances such as alcohol or drugs is a disease. The road to addiction usually begins with the voluntary use of one or more controlled substances such as narcotics, barbiturates, methamphetamine, alcohol, and nicotine. With time and the widespread use of controlled substances, the voluntary ability to refrain from taking these substances is compromised because of the effects of prolonged use on brain function and behavior Substance addiction is usually characterized by compulsive desire for the substance, and the search and use of the substance that persists, even knowing its negative consequences. Compulsive or casual drug abuse can be seen as a behavior that is maintained by its con.sequences; when they reinforce a form of behavior with a pleasant effect (positive reinforcement) or end with any adverse situation for the individual (negative reinforcement), as is the relief of pain or anxiety. The .secondary social reinforcement is independent of the pharmacological effects of the drug and can play an important role. Although substance abuse and alcoholism cannot be cured, they can be treated. With treatment, many addicts can stop abusing a particular substance. However, treatment is not always eff'ective. Many recovered addicts are persistently unable to resist either the desire lo take the substance or the withdrawal symptoms. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved) (Source: chapter)