Which statement best defines physical dependence in substance use?

• A. A state in which a person no longer needs the substance to function normally.
• B. A need to continue using to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
• C. A desire but no withdrawal symptoms.
• D. A legal obligation to use the substance.

Answer: (B)

Physical dependence happens when the body adapts to regular drug use so that stopping triggers withdrawal symptoms. The statement that best fits this concept is the one describing a need to keep using in order to avoid withdrawal, because it directly reflects how the body's systems have adjusted and why continued use is driven by the discomfort of stopping. When someone has become physically dependent, stopping can produce signs like tremors, sweating, nausea, anxiety, and other withdrawal effects, which makes continuing the drug's use a way to prevent those feelings. This differs from simply desiring the drug without withdrawal, or from a situation where there’s no need to use to function normally, and it’s not about a legal obligation.