Difference Between Abuse and Dependence

Abuse vs Dependence

Abuse and dependence is more related to drugs. Sometimes abuse and dependence are used interchangeably. Though these two terms refer to drug usage, they are different. Abuse can be defined as the inappropriate usage of a drug. Dependence can be defined as an addiction to drugs.

While abuse is a severe desire to get a particular drug, dependence can be termed as the body’s physiological need to have the drug.

Taking of drugs without a doctor’s prescription can be termed as drug abuse. There are many abused drugs that are obtained from over the counter. A person can become drug dependent when he or she continues to use the drug. This means that going beyond the prescribed dosage of drug can lead to drug dependence. It can also be seen that drug dependence can lead to behavior problems, and also cause physical harm.

When talking about drug abuse, there is no strong desire or compulsion to continue with the drug. On the other hand, a person has a strong desire to continue with the drug usage when he is dependent. This person is emotionally addicted to the drug.

In the case of drug abuse, it is easier for people to get out of it, but it is harder for people who have become dependent to get out of the clutches of drugs.

While drug abuse is more related to the physical aspect, drug dependence is related more to physiological aspects. In drug abuse, people will only have a physical craving for the drug, and think that it is needed for their bodily functions. On the contrary, persons who are dependent on drugs have an emotional or psychological need for the drug.

Summary:

1. Abuse can be defined as the inappropriate usage of a drug. Dependence can be defined as an addiction to drugs.

2. When talking about drug abuse, there is no strong desire or compulsion to continue with the drug. On the other hand, a person has a strong desire to continue with the drug usage when he is dependent.

3. While abuse is a severe desire to get a particular drug, dependence can be termed as the body’s physiological need to have the drug.

4. In drug abuse, people will only have a physical craving for the drug, and think that it is needed for their bodily functions. On the contrary, persons who are dependent on drugs have an emotional or psychological need for the drug.

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