What happens is that at some point, drugs change the way the abuser's brain is functioning. When that point is reached, it's as if a switch is thrown in the brain, thereby resulting in addiction. This modified brain may help explain why many addicts say they are unable to control their desire or craving for drugs. One might ask where voluntary drug-taking behavior ends and the compulsive disease of addiction begins. By definition, an addict suffers from compulsive, uncontrollable drug craving and use.
Treatment is necessary and effective.
Treatment uses a variety of approaches to help patients deal with these cravings and possibly avoid relapse to drug use. NIDA research shows clearly that addiction is treatable. Through treatment that is tailored to individual needs, patients can learn to control their condition and live relatively normal lives. It also dramatically reduces the costs to society of drug abuse. A comprehensive report by the Public Health Service found that the costs of drug abuse treatment were less than half those for incarceration.