How is Drug Addiction Defined by Doctors?
Medical professionals may sometimes disagree in their definition of drug addiction – however there are several hallmark symptoms which almost always indicate that there is a problem: • The individual has an intense craving for the drug in question • When the individual is not taking the drug they experience withdrawal symptoms • The individual has developed a tolerance to the drug – in other words, they need more and more of the substance over time in order to obtain the desired euphoric or stimulant effect. • The individual is unable to stop taking the drug despite a clear understanding of the harm that it is causing them in terms of their health, personal relationships, well-being and/or finances.
