Physical dependence
Physical Dependence
Physical dependence (/ˈfɪzɪkəl dɪˈpɛndəns/) is a health condition characterized by the body's adaptation to a particular drug or substance, leading to withdrawal symptoms when the substance use is reduced or stopped.
Etymology
The term "physical dependence" is derived from the Latin words "physica" meaning "nature" and "dependere" meaning "to hang from". It was first used in the medical context in the early 20th century to describe the state of reliance on certain substances.
Definition
Physical dependence is a state resulting from chronic use of a drug that has produced tolerance and where negative physical symptoms of withdrawal result from abrupt discontinuation or dosage reduction. It is identified by the presence of both tolerance and withdrawal.
Related Terms
- 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.
- Addiction: A brain disorder characterized by compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli despite adverse consequences.
- Substance use disorder: A condition in which the use of substances leads to clinically and functionally significant impairment or distress.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Physical dependence
- Wikipedia's article - Physical dependence
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