Detoxification: The purpose of drug detox is fourfold: (1) to manage withdrawal symptoms, (2) purge chemical substances, (3) recuperate the body and (4) return the brain to normal function. Why Do You Need Detox? Those who attempt to quit on their own often have to deal with the pain and discomfort of withdrawal symptoms. Many…
Neurons: When opiates enter the brain they disperse and start bumping into neurons. Some neurons have what’s known as opioid receptors on their surface. When an opiate bumps into an opioid receptor attached to a neuron within the Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA) of the brain it will activate what’s called an opioid circuit. These opioid…
Heroin tolerance, dependence, and addiction are all manifestations of brain changes resulting from repeated heroin use. The struggle for recovery is in great part a struggle to overcome the effects of these changes. New pharmacotherapies act on the same brain structures and processes as addictive opioids, but with protective and normalizing effects. Despite the effectiveness…