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Treatment Research

Brief Description

Drug addiction is a complex illness characterized by intense and sometimes uncontrollable drug craving, along with compulsive drug seeking and use that persist even in the face of devastating consequences. Because drug abuse and addiction have so many dimensions and disrupt so many aspects of a person’s life, treatment is not simple. Scientific research and clinical practice demonstrate the value of behavioral counseling often accompanied by medicines to treat addiction. In addition, continuing care and attention to co-occuring medical problems are important. A variety of approaches having been tested and integrated in residential and community settings. As we look toward the future, we will harness new research results on the influence of genetics and environment on gene function and expression (i.e., epigenetics), which are heralding the development of personalized treatment interventions.

Related Publications

Other Resources

Past information on many drugs of abuse is available on our Archives site.

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Use the SAMHSA Treatment Locator or 1-800-662-HELP.

Featured Publication

Featured Publication

Drugs, Brains, and Behavior - The Science of Addiction

As a result of scientific research, we know that addiction is a disease that affects both brain and behavior.

Blending Initiative

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Formed with SAMHSA to reduce the gap between research results and treatment.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH...Turning Discovery Into Health

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