After taking a drug for several years, Bruce decides to quit taking it. He begins to experience a variety of physical symptoms, psychological symptoms such as irritability, and a strong craving for the substance. What term is used to describe what Bruce is experiencing?
A) tolerance
B) physical dependence
C) withdrawal
D) drug intoxication

Question

After taking a drug for several years, Bruce decides to quit taking it. He begins to experience a variety of physical symptoms, psychological symptoms such as irritability, and a strong craving for the substance. What term is used to describe what Bruce is experiencing?
A) tolerance 
B) physical dependence
C) withdrawal 
D) drug intoxication

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Withdrawal refers to a set of physical and psychological symptoms that occur after the abrupt cessation or reduction of a drug to which a person has become physically dependent. In this case, Bruce is experiencing physical symptoms, irritability, and craving for the substance after quitting the drug, which are all characteristic of withdrawal. Tolerance refers to the need for increasing amounts of a drug to achieve the same effect, drug intoxication refers to the acute effects of a drug on behavior or physiology, and physical dependence is a condition in which a person's body has adapted to the drug and requires it to function normally.

After Taking a Drug for Several Years, Bruce Decides to Quit