What is the difference between tolerance and withdrawal?

• A. Tolerance refers to needing more of a substance to achieve the same effect.
• B. Withdrawal refers to the cravings you get after stopping.
• C. Tolerance and withdrawal are the same phenomenon.
• D. Withdrawal occurs only with alcohol.

Answer: (A)

Tolerance means the body adapts to regular use, so you need more of a substance to achieve the same effect. Withdrawal is the set of physical and psychological symptoms that occur when someone who has become dependent stops or reduces use. While both can occur with the same substance, they describe different experiences: tolerance explains increasing amounts to chase the same high, and withdrawal explains the discomfort and symptoms that make stopping difficult. The statement that best captures tolerance is that you need more of the substance to achieve the same effect. Note that withdrawal is not limited to alcohol and involves a broader range of symptoms beyond craving.