Drug dependence
Drug Dependence
Drug dependence (pronunciation: /drʌg dɪˈpɛndəns/) is a medical condition characterized by an individual's compulsive need to use a drug or substance, despite its harmful consequences.
Etymology
The term 'drug dependence' is derived from the Latin words 'drogum' (drug) and 'dependere' (to hang down from). It was first used in the medical context in the early 20th century to describe the physical and psychological reliance on drugs.
Definition
Drug dependence is defined as a state of adaptive physiological change that occurs after repeated drug use, leading to tolerance, physical dependence, and compulsive drug-taking behavior. It is often associated with a strong desire to take the drug, difficulties in controlling its use, persisting in its use despite harmful consequences, a higher priority given to drug use than to other activities and obligations, increased tolerance, and sometimes a physical withdrawal state.
Related Terms
- Addiction: A chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug-seeking and use despite adverse consequences.
- Tolerance: A state of adaptation in which exposure to a drug induces changes that result in a diminution of one or more of the drug's effects over time.
- Withdrawal: A group of symptoms that occur upon the abrupt discontinuation or decrease in intake of medications or recreational drugs.
- Substance Use Disorder: A condition in which the use of one or more substances leads to a clinically significant impairment or distress.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Drug dependence
- Wikipedia's article - Drug dependence
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