# ADDICTION RISK

> Addiction Risks: Comparison Between Classical Psychoactive Substances and Amazonian Plant Preparations Introduction Addiction to psychoactive substances is a…

*Life Retreat — Victor Alexeev · limba: en · sursă: https://victoralexeev.com/en/addiction-risk/*

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# ADDICTION RISK

Published: February 4, 2026

## Addiction Risks: Comparison Between Classical Psychoactive Substances and Amazonian Plant Preparations

### Introduction

Addiction to psychoactive substances is a biopsychosocial condition in which the brain’s reward mechanisms are altered. Many substances increase dopamine release, forming a cycle of “pleasure → habit → tolerance → withdrawal”.

However, different substances vary significantly in addiction potential and long-term risk.

### Biology of Addiction: Why It Happens

Modern models show that psychoactive substances disrupt the brain reward system and create a positive feedback loop between physiological changes and repeated use.

Over time this leads to:

- reduced sensitivity to pleasure

- stronger withdrawal symptoms

- increasing dosage

### Classical High-Addiction-Risk Substances

#### Nicotine

Nicotine is officially recognized as an addictive substance.It acts on acetylcholine receptors and creates strong behavioral reinforcement.

#### Alcohol

Alcohol is one of the most widely used psychoactive substances globally.Frequent use is associated with significant health and societal risks.

#### Opioids and Strong Stimulants

Opioids and some stimulants are associated with severe addiction and high overdose mortality.

### Hallucinogens and Amazonian Plants: Current Knowledge

#### Prevalence of Use

Psychedelics are used far less frequently than classical addictive substances.

#### Addiction Potential

Scientific literature suggests:

- classical psychedelics generally show low physical dependence potential

- psychological adverse effects are possible

Possible risks include:

- anxiety

- depersonalization

- persistent visual disturbances

In vulnerable individuals, risk of psychotic disorders may increase.

### Important Clarification About “Amazonian Plants”

It is important to distinguish between:

Traditional ritual useUsually controlled and infrequent.

Uncontrolled recreational useMay carry psychological risks.

### Chart: Relative Addiction Risk

The chart shows:

- Highest risk — nicotine, opioids, stimulants

- Medium risk — alcohol, caffeine

- Low risk — psychedelics

- Very low physical dependence risk — some ritual plant preparations

### Why We Cannot Say “Safe”

Even low-addiction-risk substances can:

- cause psychological issues

- trigger psychiatric disorders

- be dangerous outside controlled settings

### Final Conclusions

- Addiction develops through changes in the brain reward system.

- Nicotine, alcohol, and opioids are among the main drivers of addiction.

- Psychedelics generally show lower addiction risk but are not risk-free.

- Context of use strongly influences risk.

#### ADDICTION RISK

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