Acid-sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a) is a proton-gated cation channel that is widely expressed in the central nervous system, and is involved in various physiological and pathological processes by regulating calcium and sodium influx, synaptic plasticity, and reward effects. Recent studies have demonstrated that ASIC1a plays a pivotal role in drug abuse, by modulating neuronal excitability, synaptic plasticity, and reward circuitry. ASIC1a has thus emerged as a key molecule in the mechanisms of drug addiction and as a potential therapeutic target. This review systematically summarizes the molecular characteristics of ASIC1a, its neuroregulatory mechanisms, and its regulatory role in drug abuse, aiming to provide novel targets for elucidating the mechanisms of drug addiction and for the development of new strategies for addiction withdrawal therapy.