Any drug that affects the brain and central nervous system can be addictive. But of all the substances available, two stand out from the rest as being particularly habit-forming.
As far as our brains are concerned, heroin and nicotine are the most physically addictive substances on the planet.
The Two Most Addictive Substances and Physical Dependence
On the surface, these two drugs appear entirely different. Nicotine is generally regarded as a milder intoxicant, while heroin is widely recognized as being one of the most intense narcotics available.
But they both affect the brain’s reward system, as all drugs do. And they are both powerfully addictive. Part of the power they hold over addicts stems from the withdrawal symptoms associated with each drug.
Physical dependence refers to the need of a user’s body to have a drug in order to function. When someone is physically dependent on a substance, they need it constantly just to not feel sick or suffer withdrawal symptoms.
The withdrawal symptoms of nicotine are not as intense as those of heroin. A user withdrawing from nicotine might feel anxious, depressed, or irritable, whereas a user withdrawing from heroin might suffer insomnia, vomiting, muscle pain, chills, uncontrollable muscle movement, and more.
Withdrawal symptoms like these are undesirable in any case. Once addicted, a user tends to seek out their drug of choice soon after quitting in order to ease the symptoms of withdrawal.
Detox in an Asana Treatment Center
In detox, medications and support can help you get through the difficult stage of withdrawal.
To begin on your path to sobriety, contact Asana Recovery today. Let us help you achieve sobriety and start your new life today.
