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What makes it so easy for some people to use alcohol or drugs casually while still maintaining a somewhat “normal” existence while others fall victim to addiction after using the same drug only a few times? The simple answer: genetics. The fact is not everyone who uses drugs or alcohol becomes addicted. Behavior plays a big role in drug use. Genetic influences make addiction even more complex. There has been quite a bit of family research study proving that the incidence of drug use among family members is higher when compared to the general population. Understanding the Genetic Influence on Addiction Scientists studying the role of genetics in drug and alcohol addiction usually look for specific biological differences that increase the likelihood of an individual becoming addicted. Their goal is to isolate the “addicted genes” and discover what makes it harder for some individuals to quit using a drug once they get started. For example, why do certain genes make one person feel sick after taking an illegal substance, yet make another person feel a euphoric high? Or why do some people experience more sever withdrawal symptoms after quitting a drug than others? There has been extensive research conducted on pedigrees within larger families tracking incidents of addiction. A pedigree makes it easier for scientists to tell whether or not a train is tied to genetics. Research has determined that addiction is influenced by several different genes. For instance, the A1 allel of the dopamine receptor gene known as DRD2 is common among people addicted to alcohol. A study using mice revealed that with a gene known as the Creb gene are less likely to become addicted to morphine. Keep in mind that it is also heavily influenced by environmental influences. There are several genetic and environmental influences that can add up and cancel on another out. Not ever addict carries the same gene associated with addiction. Also, not every addict that carries an addiction gene will exhibit the trait. This is what makes isolating the genetic influences of addiction so tricky. Genetic Effects and Addiction Medication If genetics plays a major role in addiction to drugs and alcohol, it stands to reason that it would also play a role in the effectiveness of certain medications Recovery from certain drug addictions requires special treatment using what is known as addiction medication. Methadone is an example of a commonly known addiction medication used to treat drugs like heroine, codeine and hydrocodone. About the Author: Robert Shryoc is the Director of Development at the Stonegate Center, a Texas treatment center. The Texas drug rehab community serves people entangled in the physical, mental, social and spiritual bonds of chemical dependency. For more information about the residential treatment facility please visit http:www.stonegatecenter.com.
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drug addiction, texas drug rehab, drug dependency,
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