Is gambling addiction a real addiction (like heroin)?

Yes.: If you are concerned about being a gambling addict, you might want to consider attending a meeting of gamblers anonymous. Find a meeting at their web site: http://www.Gamblersanonymous.Org/ga/index.Php.

Yes: If by "real addiction" you mean "very hard to stop" and "can actually get physical symptoms when you try to stop", then indeed it is. The physical symptoms are milder but the craving is as real, and the risk of suicide is far greater. Don't look down on a compulsive gambler as weak; it's a strange combination of brain chemicals, and may respond to medication and/or wise talk.