Substance dependence -- three or more of the following in a 12-month period:

• Tolerance
• Withdrawal
• Consuming larger amounts
• Unsuccessful efforts to cut down
• Excessive time spent to obtain the substance in question
• Decreased interest in activities as a result of drug use
• Use despite physical/psychological problems caused by use

 

Substance abuse -- one of the following in a 12-month period:

• Failure to fulfill a major obligation
• Recurrent use in hazardous situations
• Substance-related legal problems
• Use despite interference in social or interpersonal function

Content on this page has not been checked for accuracy. The author's credentials have not been confirmed. Always use multiple peer-reviewed scholarly sources and good clinical judgement in your decision making.

The Compendium platform was created by David Kwinter, MD, CCFP(EM).

Dr. Kwinter is a Cayman Family Doctor. He runs a Family Medicine Clinic at Cayman Medical in George Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.