A chronic, often relapsing brain disease that causes compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences to the addicted individual and to those around him or her.
What is Addiction?
A pattern of alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress as manifested by at least 2 specific symptoms.
What is the diagnosis of alcohol use disorder?
A state resulting from chronic use of a substance that has produced tolerance and where negative PHYSICAL symptoms of withdrawal result from abrupt discontinuation or dosage reduction.
What is Physical Dependence?
Brain changes which, over time, compel a person to take more of the substance to achieve the same effect; or if the person maintains the same level and pattern of consumption, they stop experiencing the desired effect.
What is Tolerance?
Term for lasting growth of new/modified neural pathways in the brain as a result of sustained repetition.
What is neuroplasticity