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My Addiction » Addiction Articles » Addiction Withdrawal and Cravings

Addiction Withdrawal and Cravings

In this Article:
What is Addiction?
How Addiction Affects the Brain
Addiction Withdrawal and Cravings
Signs and Symptoms of Addiction
Risk Factors of Addiction
I Want to Quit, but I Can't

Withdrawal occurs when an addict has used a drug long enough to create a physical dependence within the brain and body. When the drug is suddenly discontinued, the user goes into physical withdrawal; symptoms differ depending on the drug, but the general experience is driven by the brain and involves intense cravings that are manifested in physically painful and devastating ways.


Colloquially called dopesickness, withdrawal is often the first huge hurdle for the addict to overcome in beating his or her addiction. It is a deeply unpleasant experience, and with some drugs such as alcohol or benzodiazapines (i.e. Xanax or Valium), unsupervised withdrawals can lead to seizures and even death.


Withdrawal symptoms differ widely from drug to drug. For singular descriptions, please refer to the appropriate drug on our website.


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