According to Myers (2006), withdrawal can be defined as the discomfort and suffering that an individual experiences when the consumption of an addictive substance is stopped.
The fifth edition of the DSM considers that the syndrome occurs when the concentrations of a substance in the blood or tissues decreases, in an individual who has maintained heavy use of said substance. The symptoms caused by withdrawal syndrome can lead the person to use the substance to relieve them.
Withdrawal symptoms vary depending on which one is being talked about. Marked and easily measurable withdrawal signs are very common for the consumption of alcohol, opioids, sedatives, hypnotics and anxiolytics. On the other hand, withdrawal symptoms for stimulants (amphetamines and cocaine), tobacco, and cannabis are usually present but may be less apparent. No significant withdrawal symptoms have been documented in humans following repeated use of phencyclidine, other hallucinogens, and inhalants. That is why the DSM V does not include criteria for these substances.
Although tolerance or withdrawal is not necessary to diagnose a Substance Use Disorder, having a history of withdrawal is associated with a more severe clinical course (e.g., greater number of substance-related problems or early onset of addiction). a substance use disorder).
Sources: Myers (2006), Psychology 7th edition, Editorial Médica Panamericana: Madrid
American Psychiatric Association, (2013), Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA:American Psychiatric Publishing.
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