I like your article, but in my opinion you are wrongly equating physical dependence and addiction. Any patient taking opiods for weeks or months will without question develop physical dependence. This is true for beta-blockers, SSRIs, and other classes of drugs. From Dr. Nora Volkow who heads up NIDA:
The term “dependence” has traditionally been used to describe “physical dependence,” which refers to the adaptations that result in withdrawal symptoms when drugs, such as alcohol and heroin, are discontinued. Physical dependence is also observed with certain psychoactive medications, such as antidepressants and beta-blockers. However, the adaptations associated with drug withdrawal are distinct from the adaptations that result in addiction, which refers to the loss of control over the intense urges to take the drug even at the expense of adverse consequences.
I totally agree that dependence and addiction can be distinguished to some degree. Our core concern here is folks who develop a strong craving for opioids and transition to addictive behaviors.
I like your article, but in my opinion you are wrongly equating physical dependence and addiction. Any patient taking opiods for weeks or months will without question develop physical dependence. This is true for beta-blockers, SSRIs, and other classes of drugs. From Dr. Nora Volkow who heads up NIDA:
The term “dependence” has traditionally been used to describe “physical dependence,” which refers to the adaptations that result in withdrawal symptoms when drugs, such as alcohol and heroin, are discontinued. Physical dependence is also observed with certain psychoactive medications, such as antidepressants and beta-blockers. However, the adaptations associated with drug withdrawal are distinct from the adaptations that result in addiction, which refers to the loss of control over the intense urges to take the drug even at the expense of adverse consequences.
I totally agree that dependence and addiction can be distinguished to some degree. Our core concern here is folks who develop a strong craving for opioids and transition to addictive behaviors.