The use of psychoactive substances has always been present in society (in a recreational, therapeutic or religious way). The addiction to these substances, in turn, has been more and more present in the media and in political-social discussions that try to understand the phenomenon. Cultural, social, economic, pharmacological and psychological aspects must be considered when theories and treatment actions are proposed. This work investigates the main theoretical conceptions about drug addictions in the psychoanalysis field. It also analyzes their theoretical paths. It highlights the main concepts that underlie the theories, refines divergences and convergences, verifies their evolution from the emergence of new perspectives and verifies the influence of the social context to them. In order to understand the context in which these theories were elaborated, a survey of the history of drug use and treatment of drug addicts was made throughout history. Moreover, the main theoretical concepts in psychoanalysis were investigated through a bibliographical analysis of works in both classic and contemporary authors. The main basic concepts for the theories found were highlighted and analyzed. As a result, some theoretical biases were identified, from narcissism, identification, destructiveness, repetition compulsion and object relations, for instance. There were also variations in psychopathological status, classified as symptom, structure, condition, among others. Finally, it was noted that despite the disagreements, the use of toxic substances predominates as an attempt to relieve anguish, even if the psychotropic medication has harmful consequences.