Anatomy Of Addiction: How Heroin And Opioids Hijack The Brain

(NPR, Jan. 11) Opioids trigger the release of dopamine, which tickles the pleasure area of the brain including eating, drinking, and sex. Which is why they are addictive and a difficult habit to break among addicts. Often, when a user's prescription drug supply runs out, he or she turns to heroin as a cheaper, more readily alternative. While many try to give up opioids and choose extreme circumstances, such as joining the Marines, it's still very easy to relapse and start using again. READ MORE.