Physical dependence

Physical dependence is a bodily condition produced by chronic use of a drug that builds tolerance, in which stopping the drug abruptly or gradually causes unpleasant physical symptoms. It can develop from low-dose medical use of benzodiazepines, opioids, stimulants, antiepileptics and antidepressants, as well as from recreational misuse of alcohol, opioids and benzodiazepines. Higher doses, longer use and earlier age at first use all predict worse dependence and more severe withdrawal. Acute withdrawal can last days to months, and a protracted form, sometimes called post-acute withdrawal syndrome, can persist for months or years. Physical dependence on medication is sometimes compared with the dependence of people with diabetes on insulin.