Final answer:
The category of opioids is regarded as the most addictive, including drugs like heroin and prescription painkillers such as fentanyl and oxycodone, due to their impact on the brain's opioid neurotransmitter system and high potential for physical and psychological dependence.
Step-by-step explanation:
In seeking to understand what categories of controlled drugs are the most addictive, it's essential to look at the different classes of psychoactive drugs and their effects on the brain. Particular focus is often placed on opioids, a class of drugs that includes illegal substances like heroin as well as prescription pain relievers such as fentanyl, morphine, oxycodone, and Vicodin. These drugs are known for their potential for high addiction because they serve as powerful analgesics affecting the endogenous opioid neurotransmitter system. Opioids are often highlighted due to the current issues surrounding opioid addiction and the high risk of overdose, with fentanyl being especially dangerous because of its high potency.
The category of opioids is regarded as highly addictive due to their profound impacts on the brain's chemistry, leading to both physical and psychological dependence. Substance use disorder, as described in the DSM-5, involves a compulsive pattern of drug use despite negative consequences. In addressing the addiction, rehabilitation often involves psychotherapy and may be aided by the use of other psychoactive substances that alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms, such as methadone in the case of heroin addiction.