Physical Changes

• There are a variety of physical changes that a person addicted to narcotics may go through. Weight loss is a common side effect of a variety of drugs including cocaine, marijuana, heroin and opiates. Progressive dental problems sometimes resulting in the loss of teeth are a possible sign of excessive methamphetamine use. Chronic nosebleeds and sinusitis are seen in drug users that snort a large amount of drugs on a regular basis. Addiction to drugs that are smoked may lead to coughing up blood and regular bouts with bronchitis.
  
  

Increased Energy and Sleep Issues

• Increased energy, restlessness and the inability to sleep at night are common warnings of possible addiction to stimulant drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine. Periods of excessive sleep are also warning signs of possible narcotic addiction. Increased blood pressure and metabolism are also side effects but are much harder to see.
  
  

Drug Paraphernalia

• Though it may seem obvious, unexplained drug paraphernalia like pipes, rolling papers and syringes left in plain view are signs of addiction. Many drug users get to a point where drug addiction seems normal, and they no longer feel the need to hide it from others.
  
  

Slowed Mental Function

• Many narcotic addicts show signs of impaired or slowed mental function. Unusually slow speech patterns, disorientation and confusion are common signs of drug addiction. Often, these symptoms come and go, sometimes followed by moments of intense hyperactivity.
  
  

Emotional Signs of Addiction

• Narcotic addiction often changes the typical mood and mental function of a person. Increased irritability and anger as well as the desire to argue and fight more are regularly seen symptoms. Conversely, some addicts become apathetic, depressed, lethargic or unusually calm. Others show signs of paranoia, temporary psychosis and delusional behavior. When drugs begin to take hold of a person's life, the person often loses sight of what is important to them --- everything except the drugs. The cessation of hobbies and regular activities can be a sign of serious narcotic addiction.
  
  

Denial and Rationalization

• Narcotic addicts tend to underestimate the effects drugs are having on them, as well as the amount of money spent on drugs and the actual quantity of drugs they take. This is also a sign of addiction. Often, people addicted to narcotics truly believe that they are not addicted and will try and convince others of this if accused. Sometimes this is because of fear --- fear that the drugs they know they are addicted to could be taken from them.