What does the term 'dependence' refer to in the context of drug use?

The term 'dependence' in the context of drug use specifically refers to a physical or psychological need for the substance. This dependence can manifest as a compulsion to continue using the drug despite adverse consequences, which may be due to physical changes in the body that have developed as a result of prolonged use or psychological factors such as cravings.

When an individual is dependent on a substance, they may experience withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop or reduce the use of that drug, as their body has adapted to its presence. This highlights the critical nature of dependence, differentiating it from other concepts such as tolerance, which refers to needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect, or withdrawal, which involves the symptoms that occur when a dependent individual stops using the substance.

Understanding dependence is essential for healthcare providers as it informs treatment strategies and approaches to help individuals safely manage their substance use and work towards recovery.