It is important to understand the difference between dependence and addiction. Physical dependence occurs when the body experiences withdrawal symptoms when it doesn’t receive a specific dose of a particular drug, such as a prescription opioid. If the body becomes dependent on opioids, withdrawal symptoms may begin when the amount of opioid medicine in the body is reduced or gone.
Withdrawal symptoms of opioids may include: flu-like symptoms, such as sweating, chills or aches; fatigue, anxiety, or trouble sleeping; rapid heart rate or headache; nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Addiction, also called substance use disorder (SUD), is classified as abnormal and is defined by the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition) as a chronic, treatable illness. Addiction results in compulsive behaviors such as cravings, an inability to control use, and continued use of the drug despite its harmful consequences.