A man who takes a prescribed narcotic for pain on a regular basis reports that he does not like the way the medicine makes him feel.He has tried to change to an alternate analgesic but experienced withdrawal symptoms when he stopped taking the narcotic.Which of the following problems is the man experiencing?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Drug dependence is a state of neuroadaptation (a physiological change in the central nervous system)and alterations in other systems caused by the long-term,regular administration of a drug.People who are dependent on drugs must continue using them to prevent withdrawal symptoms.Drug addiction is a pattern of abuse characterized by an overwhelming preoccupation with the compulsive use of a drug and securing its supply and a high tendency to relapse if the drug is removed.Substance abuse does not apply in this case,because the man is taking a prescribed medication for a legitimate purpose.The term drug abuse is no longer meaningful.

A Man Who Takes a Prescribed Narcotic for Pain on a Regular