Drug Addiction Addiction is a disease that affects your brain and behavior. When you’re addicted to drugs , you can’t resist the urge to use them, no matter how much harm the drugs may cause. Drug Addiction isn’t about just heroin , cocaine , or other illegal drugs . You can get addicted to alcohol , nicotine, opioid painkillers, and other legal substances. Addiction vs. Abuse Drug abuse is when you use legal or illegal substances in ways you shouldn’t. You might take more than the regular dose of pills or use someone else’s prescription. You may abuse drugs to feel good, ease stress , or avoid reality. But usually, you’re able to change your unhealthy habits or stop using altogether. Addiction is when you can’t stop. Not when it puts your health in danger. Not when it causes financ...