Recognizing drug addiction isn't always easy. Drug addiction is commonly defined as taking any drug for purposes other than for what it was intended or in any manner or in quantities other than directed. The abuse of drugs may lead to an addiction.

Addiction can also be defined as the compulsive or uncontrollable use of a drug, regardless of the physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual consequences. If a person is unable to obtain the drug, the addicted person may experience symptoms of distress or withdrawal and a need to take the drug again. Recognizing the signs of addiction (to legal or illegal drugs) in someone else can be difficult. These signs vary from drug to drug and person to person. However, people who are addicted to one or more drugs often will exhibit changes in their behavior that may gradually affect personal relationships and work performance.

Behavior often becomes erratic and their moods unpredictable, and often include feelings of euphoria and happiness to sadness, anger or depression. Some addicted persons show little interest in their normal interests or hobbies, sleeplessness, loss of appetite, or weight loss. Some drugs may produce bloodshot eyes, excessive sweating or flushed skin. An unexplained rash or irritated nostril or runny nose may be a sign that someone has been using an opiate. Alternatively, many drug-dependent persons appear normal to their friends.

If someone close to you has several of these signs or symptoms, he or she is not necessarily a drug addict. But you may know the person well enough to recognize whether genuine changes in personality have taken place. If changes include spending increasing amounts of time away from home, a shift in classroom behavior or missed classes, or a constant demand or need for money, you may have grounds for concern. However, as with all medical conditions, proper evaluation must be done to assess the true nature of the problem or to rule out disorders that might cause similar behavior.