Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive substance seeking and substance use despite negative consequences [1]. This complex brain disease involves interactions between genetic components, individual and environmental factors (including familial, peer models, exposure to stressful factors, traumatic experiences, incarceration) [2]. Cognitive deficits (memory, learning, decision making, inhibitory control) also play a major role in the development and the persistence of this disease [3]. Many models, such as incentive salience [4], or a progression from impulsivity (positive reinforcement) to compulsivity (negative reinforcement) [5] or reward deficiency [6] have been proposed for addictions. Across these models, motivational neurocircuitry, including dopaminergic systems, is dysregulated. Additionaly, brain imaging studies of dependent-patients have demonstrated brain structural abnormalities as well as changes in reward circuitry and neurotransmitter systems and metabolite changes [2].
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