Physical Dependence

Physical dependence develops when the body and nervous system adapt to repeated exposure to a substance or medicine, so reducing or stopping it can produce withdrawal. It can occur with or without addiction.

Physical dependence is not another name for addiction.

It develops when repeated exposure to a substance or medicine causes the body and nervous system to adapt to its presence. If the amount is then reduced or stopped, those adaptations do not immediately disappear. Withdrawal symptoms can emerge while the system adjusts again.

This can happen during addiction, but it can also happen when some medicines are taken appropriately over time. Someone may therefore be physically dependent without showing the impaired control or compulsive pattern associated with addiction.

The distinction matters for both understanding and safety. If significant dependence has developed, suddenly stopping some substances or medicines can produce serious withdrawal and may require medical assessment.

Full access is needed to read this Topic's articles.