Chemical & Behavioral Addiction

According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), a “substance use disorder (SUD) is a complex condition in which there is uncontrolled use of a substance despite harmful consequences. People with SUD have an intense focus on using a certain substance(s) such as alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drugs, to the point where the person’s ability to function in day-to-day life becomes impaired. People keep using the substance even when they know it is causing or will cause problems. The most severe SUDs are sometimes called addictions.”

The APA notes four categories of symptoms when a person is experiencing substance abuse. The first is impaired control which occurs when a person is experiencing strong cravings or an intense desire for a specific substance. They may also have made multiple failed attempts at stopping the substance or chemical use, or they may wish to stop but haven’t. The second symptom relates to social issues. This occurs when a person’s addiction disrupts their personal and or professional life. Perhaps it affects their performance at work, or they cannot (or choose not to) attend social events or activities due to their substance use. The third symptom is risky substance use. This is when a person uses their chosen chemical in dangerous situations. Lastly, the fourth major symptom relates to the drug’s effects. This refers to a person’s increasing tolerance for the chemical, causing them to need more and more of it to experience the same effects. Additionally, a person may experience withdrawal symptoms if they go a period without using the substance.

One of the modalities BioReset Medical may use as part of a client’s comprehensive plan to address their addiction is the use of NAD+ IV therapy. It is a holistic, all-natural vitamin therapy. We use it specifically in addiction-related detoxification situations, whether a patient is detoxing from alcohol or other (legal or illegal) substances such as methadone, benzodiazepines, stimulants, methamphetamines, etc. Since the 1960s, intravenous NAD+ has been used as an advanced treatment solution in the addiction space by helping to metabolize alcohol and chemicals in the body to support a healthier detox. It also works to promote neurotransmitter balance and increase brain activity. Ultimately, patients experience increased energy production and cell regeneration while also reporting a decrease in craving sensations post-treatments.