Research has found that addiction is a medical disease associated with biochemical
changes in the brain. These changes in brain chemistry play a significant role in the
physical symptoms of addiction, including cravings and withdrawal. To better understand
addiction, it is important to be familiar with the general findings of clinical research:

All addictions are characterized by dysregulation of specific neurochemical
mechanisms in reward and/or stress circuits.

Neurochemical changes can lead to long-term adverse changes in cognition,
decision-making and reasoning, which can affect recovery.

Addressing the physiological aspects of addiction may enhance the effectiveness
of psychosocial treatment for those on the road to recovery.