What Are the Most Addictive Drugs?

young woman on stairs with folded hands at her chin reflecting on which drugs are the most addictive

What Are the Most Addictive Drugs?

Drug addiction, whatever its form, is a serious condition that requires professional treatment. However, many people are curious to know which drugs are the most addictive. Although no two individuals or their addictions are alike, there are certainly some addictive drugs that have a stronger hold on their users than others.

Crack Cocaine

Arguably the most addictive drug in the world is crack cocaine. Although the white, powdered form of cocaine is more commonly used and covered in the press, crack cocaine is very similar. However, crack cocaine is almost entirely pure, and is typically smoked from a pipe. Because of the concentrated nature of crack cocaine, the effects are more immediate. It is one of the world’s most addictive drugs because the high lasts for just 10 minutes on average, which means that addicts may need many doses over the course of a single day. This frequent dependence on the drug means withdrawal symptoms may come faster and be more challenging for those dealing with addiction to crack cocaine.

Heroin

By some measures, heroin may actually be on par with crack cocaine in terms of addictiveness. Heroin is an opiate. In 2014 alone, more than 11,000 individuals died from a heroin overdose, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. These overdose numbers are so high in part because the drug is so difficult to quit.

Opiate Prescription Painkillers

In many ways, opioid prescription painkillers are similar to heroin. They are both opiates, and often those who are addicted to painkillers will go on to abuse heroin. In fact, prescription opioid painkillers are actually responsible for more deaths each year than heroin. Prescription painkillers are less likely to be laced with other substances that can cause subsequent health problems. Due in part to their sanctioned use in some cases, opiate prescription painkillers are undoubtedly one of the most addictive drugs on the planet.

Methamphetamine

The drug methamphetamine can be taken orally, smoked, snorted or injected, and it remains one of the most addictive substances available. When taken, methamphetamine floods the brain with dopamine and delivers a forceful high for up to eight hours. Unfortunately, tolerance can lower that number quickly, leading to higher doses and stronger addictions.

Benzodiazepines

This is another prescription medication that is used improperly on a large scale and can quickly cause an addiction. Although benzodiazepines are used medically to reduce anxiety, they can change the chemistry of the brain. This makes tapering off or quitting use very challenging for most users. Even the strongest and most severe drug addictions can be overcome with the right care and treatment. Call 866-957-4960 for information about Stepping Stone Center for Recovery in Jacksonville, Florida, and how you can take the next step toward a better, healthier life.