Substance use disorders demand significant attention. In the United States, millions of individuals grapple with various forms of drug addiction, and this statistic doesn't encompass the global scope of drug-related challenges. What might initially seem like a mere unhealthy habit can swiftly escalate into addiction as the brain becomes reliant on the substance to elevate dopamine levels in the body.
People often wonder ‘what are the most addictive drugs?’ Although all drugs have the potential to be addictive, some are definitely more addictive than others. Below is a ‘most addictive drugs list’.
Alcohol
Alcohol addiction in the United States is very common. 86% of adults in the U.S. have tried alcohol. Over 14 million adults in the U.S. struggle with alcohol use disorder. People often use alcohol for fun and relaxation.
However, drinking excessively can lead to health problems like:
- High blood pressure
- Alcohol poisoning
- Stroke
- Memory issues
- Depression
- Anxiety
When someone stops drinking alcohol, it can cause serious problems, like delirium, characterized by symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, severe tremors, and cardiovascular disturbances, which can be deadly. Other symptoms include shaking, hallucinating, and seizures.
If you or a loved one suffer from alcohol addiction, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on your path to recovery.
Methadone (or Meth)
Methadone has some medical benefits, which include its ability to treat ADHD, obesity and to taper off of heroin addiction. The downside of using Meth is that it is highly addictive. When using it to ease withdrawal symptoms, it's important to have close medical supervision. Doctors suggest reducing the doses slowly to lessen withdrawal effects and avoid getting addicted to methadone itself. Medications like Vivitrol and Suboxone can be used for treatment with fewer worries about addiction compared to methadone.
Cocaine
Cocaine is a highly addictive stimulant and common street drug. It comes from the coca plant in South America and is usually found as a white powder on the streets. Unfortunately, it's often mixed with starches or other drugs like amphetamines and opioids. People usually snort cocaine, getting a quick but intense high by releasing dopamine in the brain. The use of cocaine poses significant health risks, including the potential for cardiovascular complications, such as heart attacks and strokes, as well as heightened risks of addiction, psychiatric disorders, and overall adverse effects on physical and mental well-being.
Crack Cocaine
Crack cocaine is a crystallized version of cocaine produced in a rock-like form. It is commonly smoked to induce a rapid and potent high. Although it shares similarities with its parent compound, crack cocaine is distinguished by its heightened potency, leading to a quicker onset of an intense euphoric experience. The chemical effects of this substance are relatively short-lived, typically lasting around 10 minutes. Consequently, individuals grappling with addiction often find themselves compelled to pursue increasingly higher and more frequent doses to recapture the initial high. Since crack cocaine is a highly potent and addictive form of cocaine, it intensifies the risks associated with the drug, leading to rapid and intense euphoria but also increasing the likelihood of severe health consequences such as cardiovascular issues, respiratory problems, and heightened potential for addiction. Its rapid onset and short-lived effects can contribute to a cycle of compulsive use, exacerbating the overall dangers to both physical and mental well-being.
Fentanyl
Fentanyl has gained notoriety as a synthetic, man-made counterpart to heroin. Illicit fentanyl stands as the primary driver behind the surge in overdose deaths in the United States, surpassing the combined toll of heroin, meth, cocaine, benzodiazepines, and prescription medications, particularly affecting American youth. The majority of illicit fentanyl originates from China and finds its way into the United States through the US-Mexico border. Distributors and dealers often dilute smuggled fentanyl in large batches before sale, leading to an uneven ratio of fentanyl to cutting agents and a heightened risk of producing "deadly batches." With fentanyl, even one pill can kill.
Painkillers and Opioids
Opioid painkillers share a chemical composition similar to that of heroin and engage with the body's opioid receptors in a similar manner. While deemed safe when prescribed for short durations and at low doses, their consumption in large quantities can elicit euphoria, paving the way for misuse, overdose, and addiction. Although doctors are prescribing fewer opioid painkillers, the addiction rate and death rate across the U.S. continue to climb.
Heroin
Heroin, an opiate derived from morphine, is an immensely addictive substance that can be administered through injection, snorting, or smoking. It exists in various forms, appearing as a white or brown powder or a sticky black substance known as "black tar." Essentially, heroin is derived from morphine, a primary compound found in opium. Opium, obtained from the seedpod of the opium poppy, serves as a natural source for this drug. Presently, the United States grapples with a severe epidemic related to heroin addiction and other opioid drugs, including prescription opioids. Opioids, inclusive of heroin, contribute to the tragic toll of over 136 American lives lost every day.
Benzos
Benzodiazepines, commonly known as benzos, are a class of psychoactive drugs that exert a calming effect on the central nervous system. Prescribed for their anxiety-reducing, sedative, and muscle-relaxant properties, benzos enhance the activity of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. This increased GABA activity results in a tranquilizing effect, making benzos effective in treating conditions such as anxiety disorders, insomnia, and certain seizure disorders. However, due to their potential for tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms, especially with prolonged use, the prescription and use of benzodiazepines require careful medical supervision.
Ketamine
Ketamine is a drug used for anesthesia in humans and animals. It belongs to the class of drugs known as NMDA receptor antagonists, and its psychedelic and dissociative properties have led to its recreational use. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the therapeutic potential of ketamine, particularly for treating depression and other mood disorders.
Ketamine's unique pharmacological profile, including its rapid onset of action and potential antidepressant effects, has led to its administration in controlled clinical settings for individuals who have not responded to traditional antidepressant medications. However, its recreational use poses risks, and misuse can lead to various health issues, including dissociation and hallucinations, and in high doses, it can be associated with serious health complications.
Kratom
The active compounds in Kratom interact with receptors in the brain, resulting in both stimulant and opioid-like effects. Advocates suggest that it may offer benefits such as pain relief, mood enhancement, and increased energy. The stimulating properties of kratom, akin to those of opiates, can create a cycle of repeated use, as individuals seek to maintain the perceived positive effects while inadvertently fostering dependence. If you or a loved one suffer from a kratom addiction, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on your path to recovery.
Xanax
Xanax is a brand-name prescription medication containing the active ingredient alprazolam, classified as a benzodiazepine. Primarily prescribed to manage anxiety and panic disorders, Xanax acts by enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, resulting in a calming effect. It is known for its rapid onset of action, typically bringing relief within 30 to 60 minutes. While effective in the short term, Xanax carries the risk of abuse, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms if used improperly or for extended periods. Therefore, its usage is generally limited to short durations under the supervision of a healthcare professional due to potential side effects and the risk of addiction.
Adderall
Adderall is a prescription medication that combines amphetamine and dextroamphetamine, belonging to the class of drugs known as stimulants. It is primarily prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy (sleep issues). Adderall works by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, in the brain, which helps improve attention, focus, and impulse control. Due to its stimulant properties, many students abuse Adderall during test season and may find themselves addicted once test season is over. Abusing Adderall can lead to side effects like increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and insomnia. Healthcare professionals should closely monitor its usage to minimize risks and ensure appropriate treatment for individuals with ADHD or narcolepsy.
Marijuana
Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a psychoactive plant that has been used for various medicinal, recreational, and industrial purposes for centuries. The plant contains compounds called cannabinoids, with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) being the primary psychoactive component responsible for the plant's mind-altering effects. In recent years, there has been a growing global conversation around the legalization and decriminalization of marijuana, with some regions embracing its medicinal potential and others reevaluating its legal status for recreational use. Advocates argue that marijuana can alleviate symptoms of certain medical conditions, including chronic pain and nausea, while critics express concerns about its potential for abuse and adverse effects on mental health. The evolving legal landscape and ongoing research contribute to a complex and dynamic discourse surrounding the use of marijuana.
Hallucinogens
Hallucinogens are drugs that cause changes in perception, mood, and consciousness, leading to intense sensory distortions and hallucinations. Examples include substances like LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, and DMT. These drugs interact with serotonin receptors in the brain, affecting mood and sensory processing. Effects range from euphoria to vivid sensory distortions. Some cultures use hallucinogens in religious rituals, and there is growing interest in their therapeutic potential for conditions like depression. However, recreational use poses risks, including psychological distress. Careful consideration is necessary due to the powerful and unpredictable effects on the mind.
Suboxone
Suboxone is a medicine for treating opioid addiction. It has two main ingredients: buprenorphine, which helps with cravings, and naloxone, which prevents misuse. People take it under the guidance of healthcare professionals. It's part of a broader plan that includes counseling and support to help individuals gradually reduce or stop using opioids. The combination with naloxone is a preventive measure against misuse, as injecting Suboxone can trigger withdrawal symptoms in opioid-dependent individuals. Doctors and medical professionals are advocating for reduced restrictions on prescribing Suboxone to patients, particularly amidst the ongoing opioid crisis. Given its significant effectiveness and potential to assist in the withdrawal from opiates, Suboxone has the capacity to save numerous lives when used appropriately.
Ecstasy
Ecstasy, commonly known as MDMA, is a synthetic drug that alters mood and perception. It is chemically similar to both stimulants and hallucinogens and produces feelings of increased energy, pleasure, emotional warmth, and distorted sensory and time perception. It should be noted that MDMA is the active chemical compound found in ecstasy but people use the words MDMA and ecstasy interchangeably. Users often take ecstasy in the form of a pill, and MDMA is usually taken in a powder or crystalline form. Ecstasy can enhance the enjoyment of sensory experiences and is often associated with music festivals and dance parties. However, it can also have serious health risks, including dehydration and overheating.
Long-term use of ecstasy can lead to:
- Cognitive impairment
- Psychosis
- Severe depression
- Anxiety
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
- Brain damage
- Hemorrhaging
- Cardiovascular collapse
Ambien
Ambien is a brand name for the drug zolpidem, which is commonly prescribed to treat insomnia or difficulty sleeping. It belongs to a class of medications known as sedative-hypnotics and works by affecting certain chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people with sleep problems. Ambien is typically used for short-term treatment and is intended to help individuals fall asleep more quickly and stay asleep. It's important to take Ambien exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional, as misuse or extended use can lead to dependence or other side effects. Additionally, Ambien may cause drowsiness, so it's crucial for individuals taking the medication to ensure they have enough time for a full night's sleep before engaging in activities that require alertness.
Psilocybin
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms or psilocybin mushrooms. When ingested, psilocybin is converted to psilocin in the body, and both substances have hallucinogenic effects. These hallucinogenic mushrooms have been used for centuries in various cultural and spiritual practices. The effects of psilocybin include altered perceptions of reality, vivid visual experiences, changes in thought processes, and a sense of interconnectedness. Some people use psilocybin-containing mushrooms for recreational or spiritual purposes, but it's important to note that their use is illegal in many places, and there can be risks associated with their consumption, including psychological distress or so-called "bad trips." Research is ongoing to explore potential therapeutic uses of psilocybin, particularly in the treatment of mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
Ibogaine
Ibogaine is a psychoactive compound derived from the root bark of the iboga plant in Central Africa. Traditionally used in African spiritual ceremonies, ibogaine is known for its hallucinogenic effects. In some alternative medicine contexts, it is explored for its potential in treating opioid addiction, with users hoping for a reset of addictive patterns. However, ibogaine carries serious health risks, particularly concerning cardiac effects, and should only be administered under careful medical supervision. Its legal status varies globally, often being illegal or unregulated. While ongoing research examines its potential therapeutic uses, the safety and efficacy of ibogaine treatment remain uncertain, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration and professional guidance for those contemplating its use.
If you suffer from an addiction to any of the substances in this most addictive substance list, know that you are not alone. Addiction may be overwhelming, but with the professional and empathetic support of our staff at Avenues Recovery, it is entirely possible. Our highly trained addiction counselors have helped thousands of people break free from their addictions, and they can help you too! Contact us today to take your first step towards a brighter, healthier and addiction-free future.