Okuzeka
Pharmacy & Pharmacology vocabulary · Side Effects and Interactions

Dependence

Meaning in pharmacy & pharmacology, with examples

/dɪˈpɛndəns/nounCommon term

In pharmacy & pharmacology, dependence means: A state in which the body has adapted to a drug, so that stopping it suddenly causes withdrawal symptoms; it can be physical, psychological or both.

In Turkish: bağımlılık, ilaç bağımlılığı

How it is used

Linked with opioids, benzodiazepines and some sleeping tablets, which is why these are often prescribed for short periods and reduced gradually. Physical dependence can occur without addiction, which also involves craving and compulsive use despite harm. Pharmacists may notice warning signs such as early requests for supplies.

Example sentences

  1. Long-term use of benzodiazepines can lead to dependence.

  2. Physical dependence on opioids is expected with long-term use and is not the same as addiction.

Common collocations

  • physical dependence
  • psychological dependence
  • risk of dependence
  • withdrawal symptoms
  • toleranceA reduced response to a drug after repeated use, so that a higher dose is needed to get the same effect as before.
  • opioidA strong painkiller that acts on opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, such as morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl, codeine or tramadol.
  • controlled drugA medicine with a risk of misuse or dependence, such as morphine or some sleeping tablets, whose prescribing, storage and records are strictly controlled by law.
  • adverse drug reactionA harmful and unintended response to a medicine used at normal doses, ranging from a mild rash to serious damage to the liver, kidneys or blood.

More terms: Side Effects and Interactions

Practise with graded reading

Reading at the right level is the fastest way to make new words stick. Pick free English books by level:

This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.