This refers to a physiological state resulting from repeated substance use, in which the body adapts to the drug’s presence. When substance use stops or decreases suddenly, withdrawal symptoms occur. Physical dependence can develop with prescribed medications (e.g., opioids, benzodiazepines) or illicit drugs, and does not necessarily indicate addiction.
Although often used interchangeably with addiction or dependence, this term can be stigmatizing and medically inaccurate when describing tolerance and withdrawal alone. True substance dependence, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) and ICD-10, involves both physical and psychological components, including impaired control, craving, and continued use despite harm.
Sources: Recovery Research Institute