Drug dependence caused by drug abuse includes
Dec 18, 2019
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Min
Introduction
Drug dependence caused by drug abuse includes:
1. Physical dependence, characterized by the need to continue taking the drug to avoid withdrawal symptoms upon cessation;
2. Psychological dependence, referring to a specific mental effect produced by the drug’s action on the central nervous system;
3. Drug tolerance, i.e., a decreased sensitivity of the body to the drug.
Drug dependence is a mental state—sometimes accompanied by physical changes—resulting from the interaction between a drug and the body, characterized by compulsive use of the drug either continuously or at regular intervals, along with other related behavioral and physiological responses. Drug abuse can lead to drug dependence; but what specific types of dependence does drug abuse cause? The following section addresses this question.
Types of drug dependence caused by drug abuse include:
1. Physical dependence
Physical dependence is one manifestation of drug dependence resulting from drug abuse. Individuals with physical dependence must continue taking the drug to avoid withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation. The severity of physical dependence varies widely; in severe cases, abrupt cessation may trigger varying degrees of discomfort and somatic symptoms—and in extreme instances, even death. Drug dependence arising from abuse poses serious risks to physical health; therefore, drug misuse must be strictly avoided, and medications should only be used strictly as prescribed by a physician.
2. Psychological dependence
Psychological dependence is another component of drug dependence induced by drug abuse. It refers to a distinctive psychoactive effect produced by the drug’s action on the central nervous system, manifesting as an intense craving for the drug and compulsive drug-seeking behavior. Affected individuals experience persistent or recurrent desires to re-experience the drug’s psychological effects; such urges are often overwhelming, driving them to pursue the drug by any means necessary.
3. Drug tolerance
Drug tolerance constitutes another facet of drug dependence associated with drug abuse. Tolerance refers to diminished physiological responsiveness to a drug, necessitating progressively higher doses—even approaching toxic levels—to achieve the original therapeutic effect. Clinically, this manifests as escalating dosage requirements with repeated use.
In summary, drug dependence caused by drug abuse encompasses three interrelated components: physical dependence—characterized by the need to continue drug use to prevent withdrawal symptoms; psychological dependence; and drug tolerance.
