Adrenalin Addiction

Posted by Cheryl Craig on May 12, 1999 at 07:10:13
Could you please tell me whether or not there is any record of adrenalin addiction.  I am aware that there may be links in relation to stress and anxiety.  For my research though, I am more interested in adrenalin addiction in relation to 'thrill seeking' exteme sporting events etc.

Posted by SA, M.D. - HVMA on May 23, 1999 at 07:03:27
Dear Cheryl,
Although many people get addicted to stimulants (like cocaine and amphetamines), which have adrenalin-like qualities and may promote the release of adrenalin (which is also known as norepinephrine), I am not aware of addiction to adrenalin itself.  Adrenalin can only be administered by needle, whereas the commonly abused stimulants are usually taken by mouth or snorted before they are injected.  This may have something to do with why adrenalin itself is not a substance of abuse.
For more information on stimulant abuse, take a look at my Ask DrSteve web site:  http://www.drsteve.org .
DrSteve
Keywords:  adrenalin, norepinephrine, stimulant