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.