addict (redirected from addicts)

ad·dict (dkt)

n.

One who is addicted, as to narcotics or a compulsive activity.

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addict

[ad′ikt]

Etymology: L, addicere, to devote

a person who has become physiologically or psychologically dependent on a chemical such as alcohol or other drugs to the extent that normal social, occupational, and other responsible life functions are disrupted.

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addict [ad´ikt]

a person exhibiting addiction.

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addict (ad´ikt),

n an individual who has developed physiologic or psychologic dependence on a chemical such as alcohol or other drugs.

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addict

Substance abuse A person vulnerable to compulsive heavy consumption of substances with abuse potential. See Controlled drug substance, –holic, Substance abuse, Therapy addict.

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Patient discussion about addict.

Q. Am I addicted to caffeine? I love coffee! I can't start my day without it. I drink about 5 cups a day. How do I know if I am addicted?

A. There is no exact test to detect if you are addicted to caffeine. The best way to detect addiction is to stop drinking coffee and see if you experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms may vary in their extent, which usually depends upon the state of dependency and addiction. Symptoms of caffeine withdrawal may include headache, fatigue or drowsiness. In addition, changes in mood, such as depressed mood or irritability, may occur. Muscles may be painful or stiff. A person with withdrawal symptoms may have problems to concentrate. Some may experience flu-like symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting. Withdrawal symptoms may occur from 6 to 18 hours after a sudden cessation of use of caffeine.

Q. Whats the harm in drinking coffee? I drink coffee all day long and love it! My friends say I'm addicted and should cut back. But what is the harm in drinking coffee?

A. What caffeine actually does is set off a stress response. It stimulates your adrenal glands to make epinephrine and norepinephrine—the same stress hormones that are produced in response to any stressor. This sets the stress response in motion, causing tense muscles, elevated blood sugar, and increased pulse and respiration. You may feel mentally sharper because your brain is high on adrenaline. If stress hormones remain elevated, the body is thrown into a state of chronic stress. By sipping on coffee all day long, you are forcing your adrenal glands to continue to pump out stress hormones.

Q. How would you define Addiction? In every aspect of life ...

A. its when you are dependent on a substance,and cant live without it on a daily basis,you can be addicted to just about anything.would like too know more info.