Author(s):
Addiction is a pervasive disorder characterized by compulsive substance use or behavioral patterns despite adverse consequences. At its core, addiction involves profound alterations in brain structure and function, driven by the neuroplasticity of the brain's reward and learning systems. This review explores the intricate relationship between addiction and neuroplasticity, focusing on how chronic exposure to addictive substances or behaviors induces neuroadaptive changes that perpetuate addictive behaviors. Key to understanding addiction is the impact on the mesolimbic dopamine pathway and other neural circuits involved in reward processing. Addictive substances hijack these systems, leading to heightened reward sensitivity, tolerance, and dependence. Neoplastic changes, such as altered synaptic strength and dopamine receptor regulation, contribute to the persistence of addiction and the challenge of achieving sustained recovery. Despite these challenges, neuroplasticity also holds promise for addiction recovery. Research demonstrates that the brain retains its capacity to rewire and adapt, even after prolonged substance use. Effective treatments leverage neuroplasticity to p
