Withdrawal Syndrome

Withdrawal syndrome is a substance-specific ADR associated with cessation or rapid reduction in the amount of a substance that an individual (usually a substance-dependent person) has been taking for a prolonged period of time and/or in high doses.⁸ It results in clinically significant physiological or psychological distress or impairment in social, occupational or other important areas of functioning. It is most commonly associated with alcohol, tobacco, cocaine, amphetamines, and heroin addiction; and following the long-term use of therapeutic agents such as opioids and benzodiazepines. The signs and symptoms of withdrawal are specific to the specific agent withheld and commonly observed signs and symptoms are summarized in Table 2²⁹, but often include: