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Explain it to me simply

What is physical dependence?

Physical dependence means the body has adapted to a substance and withdrawal may occur if it is stopped suddenly. It can happen with prescribed medication as well as with other substance use.

The important distinction

Dependence alone does not mean addiction. Addiction also involves difficulty controlling use and continued use despite meaningful harm. The two can overlap, but they are not identical.

What can I do next?

If you take a prescribed medicine, discuss any dose change with your prescriber. A planned taper may be safer than stopping abruptly.

Further reading: Official health source ↗

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