Dope and Dopamine: Heroin's Impact on the Brain

Feeling pleasure, pain and other sensations is a natural, dynamic phenomenon that occurs within the human body. Through a set of bodily-made substances known as endogenous opioids, an individual can effectively react to different environmental stimuli due to the chemical changes the opioids stimulate. However, when a person is controlled by a manipulative and addictive drug like heroin, foreign and potent chemicals replace the natural elements inside the body. As a result, these pathways of reward are abused with the high demands from one's dependency and leads to an adapted need for more stimulation.
One pathway that is hijacked by a serious addiction is the production of dopamine. A history of scientific findings has paved the understanding of heroin's effect on the brain, including its specific impact on an addict's dopamine levels. In an imaging study that measured the availability of dopamine and serotonin in heroin users, results highlighted a noticeable conflict between previous research trials (Cosgrove et. al. 2010). Two major trends existed: chronic heroin use was either associated with lower dopamine availability or no major differences at all. Another interesting finding was that studies that found less dopamine examined addicts after 10 days of detox, while studies that found no chemical changes observed subjects still actively addicted.
In the context of addiction, the relationship between heroin and dopamine still has a lot of deeper details to be discovered. Opiates may influence a unique effect on the nervous system or specific chemical changes may occur after a person becomes abstinent. As research in the field regarding heroin's psychological influences progresses, the most innovative mental health facilities in California can apply this new knowledge and help at-risk and underserved demographics get effective support.
If you are searching for the most successful detox retreat centers in California, look no further than California Detox Helpline. Options for drug rehab in the San Diego, Orange County and Los Angeles areas are available 24/7.
California Detox Helpline is how people in need of recovery receive the resources to start. Detoxification is the first step towards sober living and the right program can save a person from the distressing feelings of withdrawal. With this helpline, a former addict can separate from a destructive drug and connect to the best cognitive behavioral therapy San Diego, Los Angeles or any other city in the Golden State. Whether you or a loved one's addiction involves opiates, alcohol or any other abusive substances, a better life can begin with a single conversation by contacting a helpline consultant online or by calling 855-780-2495.