Describing addiction

• What are the symptoms of addiction?

  • Tolerance
  • Withdrawal
  • Unsuccessful attempts to cut down
  • Use of large amounts in short periods
• What is tolerance?


  An individuals response to a given amount of substance is reduced
• What are the three ways tolerance can occur?

  • Enzymes responsible for metabolising the drug do this more efficiently
  • Receptor density changes
  • Individual has learned to function properly under the influence of the drug
• What is a craving?


  An intense desire to have the experience the drug gives
• What is psychological dependence?

  The addiction becomes a central part to the individuals thoughts, emotions and activities
• What is physical dependence?


  People need to indulge in their addiction in order to feel normal