Withdrawal syndrome

1. What is meant by withdrawal syndrome?
2. Why do we have withdrawal symptoms?
3. What happens when you have a withdrawal?

What is meant by withdrawal syndrome?

Withdrawal syndrome, also known as discontinuation syndrome, occurs in individuals who have developed physiological dependence on drugs or alcohol and who discontinue or reduce their use of it.

Why do we have withdrawal symptoms?

Brain circuitry and chemistry will attempt to regulate as drugs and/or alcohol process out of the body after dependence has formed, and this causes withdrawal symptoms.

What happens when you have a withdrawal?

Symptoms can include insomnia, irritability, changing moods, depression, anxiety, aches and pains, cravings, fatigue, hallucinations and nausea. The person may be hot and cold, have goosebumps, or have a runny nose as if they have a cold.