Brain Chemistry and Addiction

Any substance taken into the body results in changes to that body. If the substance is beneficial, such as food or oxygen, the body works better, continues to thrive, lives. If the substance is detrimental, the body's functions are impaired; cell damage and death may ensue. Such is the case with drug use. This entry focuses on the effects of drug use and addiction on the chemistry of the brain.

To understand the effects of drugs on the brain, one must first understand the various structures and neuro-transmitters affected. There are a number of areas in the brain affected by drugs and alcohol; one of the main areas involved is the area often referred to as the "reward center": the limbic system, nucleus accumbens, and the ...