INTERNET AND GAMING ADDICTION: EXPLORING THE ROLE OF PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENTS Authors: Vasantha G , SHARMILA M, BHAGYASRI N, ASHLESHA M, SRINIVASA RAO Y
ABSTRACT
Internet and Gaming Addiction have emerged as critical behavioural disorders in the digital
age, marked by overuse of digital technologies, online gaming, and virtual interactions. This
review provides an in-depth analysis of the numerous internet-related addictions, including
social networking, cybersex, information overload, and gaming disorders. The paper explores
the psychological, social, and neurological underpinnings of these addictions and highlights
their association with co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, ADHD, and
obsessive-compulsive disorder. The review further examines diagnostic features, risk factors,
and the evolving landscape of treatment options, including cognitive-behavioural therapy,
pharmacological interventions, and technology-based therapies. Special attention is given to
emerging treatments and the ethical considerations in clinical research. The results highlight
the critical need for all-encompassing, empirically supported therapy and suggest more
investigation into scalable, easily accessible treatments for Internet and gaming disorders.
Keywords: Internet, Gaming Addiction, pharmacological interventions Publication date: 01/07/2026 https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/July/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10355.pdfDownload PDFhttps://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.7.10355