How Genetics Affect Our Likelihood Of Becoming An Addict

There is no doubt among the scientific community that genetics play a significant role in the likelihood that one person can be more susceptible to addiction than another. There are specific genes and traits that will make someone more likely to become addicted to specific or in some cases, any type of drugs or alcohol. These same genes also make it more difficult to stop the addiction once their body has become accustomed to it.

The Role Of Genetics While Under The Influence Of Drugs Or Alcohol

People have different reactions to certain drugs and alcohol. Some have good reactions and others have bad reactions while they are under the influence of a substance. People that have enjoyable reactions to a substance will be more likely to use that substance again in the future. This is a trait that is tied to their genetics.

The Role Of Genetics While Attempting To Quit Addiction

Likewise, people also have different types of reactions when they stop using a substance after their body has become accustomed to it. This is why some people are unable to drop their addiction even after they have hit rock bottom. Once again, this is a trait that is tied to their genetics more so than their environmental or personality traits.

How To Predict Genetically Determined Addictions

Researchers are still working on being able to identify and find specific genes that affect a person’s behavior regarding addiction. These types of addictions are incredibly complex, which is why it is still a work in progress. There are many factors aside from genetics that will play a role in the likelihood that someone becomes an addict that are inherited from their environment. This makes identifying specific genes that much more difficult.

In the meantime, the most reliable way to gain insight on a person’s likelihood to become an addict is to examine their family history. If there is a history of addiction in a person’s family, that person will most likely also carry the same addiction genes.

Addiction Treatment Using Amino Acids

Just as genetics can predetermine a person’s susceptibility to addiction, genetics can also be used to help an addict recover from such addictions. There is a treatment that uses amino acids to help a patient recover from their addiction.

Amino acids have been shown to severely reduce the substance cravings that the patient will naturally have in as little as three days. Treatments can be given both orally and intravenously.

Amino acid addiction treatment provides an effective way for an addict to begin their recovery. Without this type of treatment, patients may be unable to fight off the strong cravings that make it so hard for them to quit.

Dr. Vikram Tarugu MD

Dr. Vikram Tarugu, M.D, is the CEO of Detox of South Florida, Inc and medical professional focused on addiction. A veteran in the medical field with over 25 years of professional experience. He is a consultant for many South Florida Rehab centers. Patients travel from allover the US to seek his help with addiction and Hepatitis C treatment.