ANR approaches opioid dependency based on the pathophysiology and neuropharmacology vis-à-vis normal brain function and examines the interaction and relationship that would normally exist prior to the neuroadaptation and alteration that has now ensued from nervous system exposure to opioids. Individuals who develop an opioid dependency through the use of exogenous opioids suppress natural endorphin production while simultaneously inducing the nervous system to increase the number of active endorphin/opioid receptors. With increasing use and abuse, this develops into a vicious self-perpetuating cycle. As more and more receptors are induced, the individual requires greater and greater amounts of opioids/narcotics to quench their neuro-biochemical demand.
