University of Utah Department of Human Genetics The New Science of Addiction Louisa A. Stark, Ph.D. Director

Addiction is similar to other diseases

Natural reward pathways exist in the brain Drugs of abuse alter the brain’s natural reward pathways Genetics is a factor in addiction Timing and circumstances influence addiction Addiction is a treatable disease Key points

Treatment and recovery

Components of effective treatment Treatment medications –Treat withdrawal symptoms –Help the brain adapt to the absence of the drug –Prevent relapse by interfering with triggers

Components of effective treatment Behavioral therapies –Cognitive behavioral therapy –Motivational incentives –Motivational interviewing –Group therapy

Natural reward pathways exist in the brain Drugs of abuse alter the brain’s natural reward pathways Genetics is a factor in addiction Timing and circumstances influence addiction Addiction is a treatable disease Key points

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