A client reports that the narcotic she took for pain on a regular basis made her feel bad and that when she tried an alternative analgesic, she experienced withdrawal symptoms. What is this client suffering from?
A) Drug abuse
B) Drug addiction
C) Drug dependence
D) Substance abuse

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The terms drug dependence and drug addiction often are used interchangeably, but they are not synonymous. Drug dependence is a state of neuroadaptation caused by the chronic, regular use of a drug. People who are dependent on drugs must continue using them to prevent withdrawal symptoms. Drug addiction, in contrast, is a pattern of abuse characterized by an overwhelming preoccupation with the use (compulsive use) of a drug and securing its supply, and a high tendency to relapse if the drug is removed.

A Client Reports That the Narcotic She Took for Pain