If you use drugs, you know that some have worse effects than others. Not all substances are equally harmful. For example, caffeine is a non-dangerous psychoactive drug millions of people consume through coffee, tea and soft drinks.
It is crucial to remember that some drugs are highly addictive and hazardous to your wellbeing. To understand the most addictive drugs, you must consider pleasure, cravings and physical dependence. Here are the most habit-forming substances in the world.
1. Heroin
Heroin comes out on top as the most addictive drug on the planet. The core reason why heroin is so addictive is the intense withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Severe cravings
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Bone and muscle pain
- Restlessness
- Cold flashes
- Uncontrollable movements
If you use heroin, you may also develop a tolerance, meaning you require frequent or higher doses to experience the pleasurable effects.
2. Cocaine
The reason cocaine is such an addictive substance is mostly the psychological side effects of using it. Using cocaine stimulates pleasure centers in your brain that cause extreme euphoria. The psychological pleasure and tolerance may keep you going back to this drug again and again.
3. Nicotine
While not illegal, nicotine remains a dangerous and addictive substance. When you take nicotine, it activates endorphins and the reward circuits in your brain. This gives you a brief yet pleasurable high. Nicotine also increases your dopamine, which reinforces the use of the drug.
4. Barbiturates
Barbiturates are a category of drugs that used to be prescribed for anxiety on a large scale. The sedative effects of barbiturates cause it to be one of the most likely drugs to cause dependency. Common brand name drugs that fall under this category include Thiopental and Amobarbital.
5. Alcohol
Of course, alcohol is a widespread substance that has addictive properties. Not only can it lead to alcoholism, it can also cause other complications, such as DUI accidents.
